Happy Halloween!!!

3 Days Left! Learn to Cook with a Professional Chef!

Only 3 days left to Register for Cooking with Chef Robin!
Cooking Class is this Saturday - November 5th!

Payment must be received by Wednesday, November 2.  

Payment can be made via PayPal or credit card.

Click Here To Register & Pay 

(scroll to bottom of the Cooking with C.A.R.E. page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")

Step outside your comfort zone and strive to learn something new!  What better way to start, by learning to cook a healthy and nutritious meal that you can make over and over again.

Join The Healthy Hoff for a fun, fall afternoon of learning to cook a healthy and nutritious Vegan meal with Chef Robin, owner of Cooking with C.A.R.E

This will be a hands on cooking class in which you will leave with the skills to make:

• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Black Bean Burgers w/Corn Salsa
• Confetti Quinoa
• Caramel Pears

All food will be non-GMO and organic as available.

What: Vegan Cooking Class conducted by Chef Robin + Healthy Hoff Limited Edition T-shirt
When: Saturday, 11.5.2011
Where: St. Paul's Community Church: 4427 Franklin Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44113
Time: 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Cost: $45 per person

Deadline: You must register by Wednesday, 11.2.2011

Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")

In an effort to keep costs low, please bring a cutting board, apron and your favorite chopping knife.

Did I mention we get to eat our creations?!?!

But I'm not Vegan.

Who cares!  You don't need to be Vegan to enjoy this class.  Take this opportunity to learn something new, broaden your culinary skills and increase your weekly menu options.  Remember, going meatless just once a week may reduce your risk of chronic, preventable conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Meatless Monday!

Check this out to see how going meatless just once a week can be beneficial!



Want to learn more about Cooking with C.A.R.E?

Sign-up for the Cooking with C.A.R.E newsletter or check out Chef Robin's Blog!

Questions?  Contact me at thehoff@healthyhoff.com

SoulPancake.

Rainn Wilson the man behind the legend of Dwight Schrute, along with two friends, Joshua Homnick and Devon Gundry offer the universe, SoulPancake, a website dedicated to encouraging people to explore what it means to be human through art, activities and thought provoking questions.

Life's Big Questions

If your life were a movie, would it be worth watching?

What would you do differently if no one would judge you?

Can you describe yourself in three words?

be inspired.
The Hoff

Vegan Zombie Strikes Again: Pumpkin Soup

Have I mentioned that I love this guy?!?  Check out his fall inspired arm!

Check out the latest from the Vegan Zombie: Pumpkin Soup!

Registration Closes in 5 Days: Healthy Hoff presents Cooking with Chef Robin!

Only 5 days left to get into Cooking with Chef Robin!

Payment must be received by Wednesday, November 2.  

Payment can be made via PayPal or credit card.

Click Here To Register & Pay 

(scroll to bottom of the Cooking with C.A.R.E. page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")

Join The Healthy Hoff for a fun, fall afternoon of learning to cook a healthy and nutritious Vegan meal with Chef Robin, owner of Cooking with C.A.R.E

This will be a hands on cooking class in which you will leave with the skills to make:

• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Black Bean Burgers w/Corn Salsa
• Confetti Quinoa
• Caramel Pears

All food will be non-GMO and organic as available.

What: Vegan Cooking Class conducted by Chef Robin + Healthy Hoff Limited Edition T-shirt
When: Saturday, 11.5.2011
Where: St. Paul's Community Church: 4427 Franklin Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44113
Time: 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Cost: $45 per person

Deadline: You must register by Wednesday, 11.2.2011

Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")

In an effort to keep costs low, please bring a cutting board, apron and your favorite chopping knife.

Did I mention we get to eat our creations?!?!

But I'm not Vegan.

Who cares!  You don't need to be Vegan to enjoy this class.  Take this opportunity to learn something new, broaden your culinary skills and increase your weekly menu options.  Remember, going meatless just once a week may reduce your risk of chronic, preventable conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Meatless Monday!

Check this out to see how going meatless just once a week can be beneficial!



Want to learn more about Cooking with C.A.R.E?

Sign-up for the Cooking with C.A.R.E newsletter or check out Chef Robin's Blog!

Questions?  Contact me at thehoff@healthyhoff.com

CDC Director Arrested for Child Molestation and Bestiality

CDC Director Arrested for Child Molestation and Bestiality
Posted By Dr. Mercola | October 28 2011

"Dr. Kimberly Quinlan Lindsey, a top official with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been arrested and charged with two counts of child molestation and one count of bestiality."

To read the full story, click here.

This is beyond messed up, but the reason I am posting it is that it reinforces our need to scrutinize the information being fed to us by government agencies closely and not except it in blind faith.  

While what this woman does in her personal life has no bearing in her professional life, doesn't it call into question her judgement?  The same judgement instructing millions to take vaccines, including the H1N1 vaccine and creating policies dictating the healthcare of children.

WTF!

The Hoff

Doc: Radically Simple

Ummm, this doc is ok, I guess?

Basically you'll listen to Jim Merkel talk for about 35 minutes on ways reduce your carbon footprint.  Most of the time you'll watch him giving public and private lectures from a book he has published on the subject as well as watch him do some of the things he talks about - like collecting water from a stream.

Jim's overall goal is to show how simple, little changes can have a positive impact on the environment.

If one had to do a paper on how to reduce one's impact on the environment, Radically Simple could be a useful source.

Don't expect any movie magic, this is a very simple and straightforward doc. 

Check out a clip!

Hoff's Pumpkin Pudding!

Hoff's Pumpkin Pudding
Yields: About 4-5 cups
dairy-free, egg-free, oil-free, soy-free



Ingredients:

• 2 boxes Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix
• 2 cups Milk Substitute (I use Almond Milk)
• 1 - 15oz can 100% Pure Pumpkin
• 1 tbsp Vanilla
• 1/2 tsp Pumpkin Spice
• 1/2 tsp Salt (optional)

Directions:

1. Whisk together Vanilla Pudding Mix and Milk
2. Fold in Pumpkin and Seasonings
3. Allow to set in Frig

My 2 Cents:

• Top with some crumbled graham crackers for the ultimate pumpkin pie in a cup treat!
• Tastes even better the next day

Registration Closes in 7 Days: Healthy Hoff presents Cooking with Chef Robin!

Reminder: In order to participate in this class, you must preregister and pay by Wednesday, November 2.  Payment can be made via PayPal or credit card.

Click Here To Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")

Join The Healthy Hoff for a fun, fall afternoon of learning to cook a healthy and nutritious Vegan meal with Chef Robin, owner of Cooking with C.A.R.E

This will be a hands on cooking class in which you will leave with the skills to make:

• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Black Bean Burgers w/Corn Salsa
• Confetti Quinoa
• Caramel Pears

All food will be non-GMO and organic as available.

What: Vegan Cooking Class conducted by Chef Robin + Healthy Hoff Limited Edition T-shirt
When: Saturday, 11.5.2011
Where: St. Paul's Community Church: 4427 Franklin Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44113
Time: 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Cost: $45 per person

Deadline: You must register by Wednesday, 11.2.2011

Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")

In an effort to keep costs low, please bring a cutting board, apron and your favorite chopping knife.

Did I mention we get to eat our creations?!?!

But I'm not Vegan.

Who cares!  You don't need to be Vegan to enjoy this class.  Take this opportunity to learn something new, broaden your culinary skills and increase your weekly menu options.  Remember, going meatless just once a week may reduce your risk of chronic, preventable conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Meatless Monday!

Check this out to see how going meatless just once a week can be beneficial!



Want to learn more about Cooking with C.A.R.E?

Sign-up for the Cooking with C.A.R.E newsletter or check out Chef Robin's Blog!

Questions?  Contact me at thehoff@healthyhoff.com

Do You Zumba?!?!

Do you Zumba?  If not, what are you waiting for?!?

Zumba is an excellent, get yo ass off the couch, booty shaking, heart pumping exercise DVD series that is so addicting you'll crave to do it everyday!

What I like about this exercise DVD set is that it doesn't really feel like exercise at all as you are dancing more than anything so the repetitive moves don't really feel repetitive.  Plus you are learning actual Latin dances - I love multitasking!

While this is a Latin inspired program, I like that they infuse a mix of cultural music all set to modern hip-hop beats.  Beware though, I have found myself breaking out a Zumba move or two out on the dance floor - booty circle, anyone!?!?


When I started Zumba, only the original series, Zumba Fitness Total Body Transformation was available.  Now, there are a variety of packages to choose from, including their second full series,
Zumba Fitness Exhilarate: The Ultimate Experience DVD Set.  I haven't tried the second series yet, but it looks awesome.

Zumba is also now available for Wii, PS3 and Xbox.

Prefer a little social interaction?  Zumba is taught live across the country, click here to find a location.  I have found that many churches conduct classes for either a low fee or a donation - ask around!

So, if you're bored with your exercise routine or are just not motivated to workout at all, I highly suggest that you give Zumba a try - it's a dance party in your living room!  In no time, Beto, Tanya and Gina and will feel like old friends!

Zuuuuuuuuuuumba!
The Hoff

October 24, 2011 is Food Day!

"Food Day will be October 24—in 2011 and in years to come. Food Day seeks to bring together Americans from all walks of life—parents, teachers, and students; health professionals, community organizers, and local officials; chefs, school lunch providers, and eaters of all stripes—to push for healthy, affordable food produced in a sustainable, humane way. We will work with people around the country to create thousands of events in homes, schools, churches, farmers markets, city halls, and state capitals."

Click here to learn more about Food Day and how you can participate!

Ask The Hoff: Good Places to Eat!

Hey Hoff!

I'm going out to dinner with a few of my girls tonight and was wondering if there were any Healthy Hoff approved places you could recommend?

Thanks!
Seriously Hungry





Hey Seriously Hungry!

This is a question that I get asked quite often.  My number one response is, "Go to Tree Hugger's!" - a foodie playground for vegetarians and vegans alike.  Next, I recommend J. Alexanders, which while a steakhouse in spirit, serves a most excellent black bean burger and one of the best salads that I've ever had - a perfect middle ground for veggies and non-veggies coming together.

For more places, check out my "Eat Here!" page - a directory I have compiled listing vegetarian/vegan friendly restaurants from Cleveland to Columbus.

I have by no means captured every place available in Ohio, so if anyone has a restaurant to add, please hit me up at TheHoff@healthyhoff.com.

Thanks Bunches!
The Hoff

Gotta question for The Healthy Hoff?  Hit me up at TheHoff@healthyhoff.com

Healthier Pizza Tips

It happens to the best of us - you've had a hard day, you're tired and you have zero motivation to cook.  You don't feel like leaving the house, so what do you do?

Pizza Guy to the rescue!

Check out these healthy tips courtesy of Hungry Girl before you pick up that phone.

HG's TOP Tips for Pizza Ordering

1. Thin crust or Neapolitan is almost always a better choice than Sicilian or pan pizza.
2. Repeat after us: "Easy on the cheese."
3. Load up on veggies. Just make sure they're not breaded and fried!
4. Beware of fatty meats! Sausage? Skip it. Bacon? Buh-bye. Pepperoni? Please. To feed these cravings, turn to HG's slimmed-down recipes (like this one)!
5. There's no shame in pizza blotting. Blot the oil off your pizza. Do it.
6. Don't JUST eat pizza -- have a small salad too (dressing on the side; dip, don't pour)! Then you can enjoy a slice or two without feeling deprived and still hungry.
7. Options to avoid: deep dish, stuffed crust, and specials with the word "Supreme," "Ultimate," "Works," or "Lovers" in the title... unless accompanied by the word "Veggie." Also avoid doughy side dishes. (What is the point of eating cheesy breadsticks dunked in marinara sauce WITH pizza? It's just more of the same!)
8. Options to indulge in: whole-wheat or whole-grain crust (especially thin-style), fresh veggies, red pepper flakes, sliced olives, grated Parm (just a few sprinkles!), garlic powder, extra tomato sauce, jalapeño slices, and hot sauce. (Sensing a theme? Spicy foods slow down your eating and bring big flavor without big calorie counts!)

From time to time, The Healthy Hoff will indulge in a delivered pizza as well.  To minimize the damage, I go for a thin crust (whole-wheat when I can get it), veggie lovers, extra sauce, hold the cheese, please!

The pizza sauce and dough at Chuck E. Cheese, Little Caesars, and Papa John's are vegan, while Pizza Hut uses vegan sauce, and its Thin 'n Crispy and dessert crusts are vegan, its other crusts are not.

Don't Forget to Tip!

The Hoff

Event: Healthy Hoff presents Cooking with Chef Robin!

Time is running out to register - don't miss your chance to get a Limited Edition Healthy Hoff T-shirt!

Click Here To Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")

Join The Healthy Hoff for a fun, fall afternoon of learning to cook a healthy and nutritious Vegan meal with Chef Robin, owner of Cooking with C.A.R.E

This will be a hands on cooking class in which you will leave with the skills to make:

• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Black Bean Burgers w/Corn Salsa
• Confetti Quinoa
• Caramel Pears

All food will be non-GMO and organic as available.


What: Vegan Cooking Class conducted by Chef Robin + Healthy Hoff Limited Edition T-shirt
When: Saturday, 11.5.2011
Where: St. Paul's Community Church: 4427 Franklin Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44113
Time: 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Cost: $45 per person
Deadline: You must register by Wednesday, 11.2.2011
Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")


In an effort to keep costs low, please bring a cutting board, apron and your favorite chopping knife.


Did I mention we get to eat our creations?!?!

But I'm not Vegan.

Who cares!  You don't need to be Vegan to enjoy this class.  Take this opportunity to learn something new, broaden your culinary skills and increase your weekly menu options.  Remember, going meatless just once a week may reduce your risk of chronic, preventable conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Meatless Monday!

Check this out to see how going meatless just once a week can be beneficial!



Want to learn more about Cooking with C.A.R.E?

Sign-up for the Cooking with C.A.R.E newsletter or check out Chef Robin's Blog!

Questions?  Contact me at thehoff@healthyhoff.com

Doc: Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead

Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead is a great documentary!  And a must see if you have been toying with the notion to try juicing or attempt a juice fast.  Even if you're not, which I wasn't when I first saw it - you will still be inspired by the stories told.  Now that I am getting into juicing, I watched it again and love it even more.

This doc follows the journey of Joe Cross, a wealthy Australian businessman suffering from a rare disease and paying for years of living it up.  Joe sets out on a 60 day road trip across the United States, while juice fasting in hopes to "reboot" his system.  Along the way he meets many interesting people, shares his story, and even converts a few people.

It is amazing to see Joe and others get off their medications and make a substantial impact on their ailing health if not completely turn it around all through diet and exercise.

Watch it for yourself and see the transformations and inspirations.

Event: Healthy Hoff presents Cooking with Chef Robin!

Don't delay - space is limited! 

Join The Healthy Hoff for a fun, fall afternoon of learning to cook a healthy and nutritious Vegan meal with Chef Robin, owner of Cooking with C.A.R.E

This will be a hands on cooking class in which you will leave with the skills to make:

• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Black Bean Burgers w/Corn Salsa
• Confetti Quinoa
• Caramel Pears

All food will be non-GMO and organic as available.


What: Vegan Cooking Class conducted by Chef Robin
When: Saturday, 11.5.2011
Where: St. Paul's Community Church: 4427 Franklin Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44113
Time: 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Cost: $45 per person
Deadline: You must register by Wednesday, 11.2.2011
Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")


In an effort to keep costs low, please bring a cutting board, apron and your favorite chopping knife.


Did I mention we get to eat our creations?!?!

But I'm not Vegan.

Who cares!  You don't need to be Vegan to enjoy this class.  Take this opportunity to learn something new, broaden your culinary skills and increase your weekly menu options.  Remember, going meatless just once a week may reduce your risk of chronic, preventable conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Meatless Monday!

Check this out to see how going meatless just once a week can be beneficial!




Want to learn more about Cooking with C.A.R.E?

Sign-up for the Cooking with C.A.R.E newsletter or check out Chef Robin's Blog!

Questions?  Contact me at thehoff@healthyhoff.com

Hoff Hit: Is My Pear Ripe?

Pears ripen once harvested, not while on the tree.

The best way to test for ripeness is to apply gentle pressure to neck of the pear with your thumb. If it yields to the touch, it's time to eat!

Fall HoffTea

As the air turns brisk and it gets harder and harder to get out of bed in the morning, I long to be warmed by familiar fall favorites: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves...all of which can be conveniently found in one place - Chai Tea!

So come fall, I switch to making HoffTea with Chai Tea.  If I can't find loose leaf Chai, I will use Tazo's Chai Tea and tear the tea bag open to release it's  inner goodness to brew along with my morning coffee.  I put the tea on top of the coffee grounds so it can infuse into the coffee while the water drips down.

Chai Tea is a rich black tea from India - traditionally made with milk, I use a milk substitute (vanilla almond milk, to be exact), cut with water (I find using all milk to be too rich) for mine and a touch of honey to bring out the spices.

Chai Tea has a warming, soothing effect and also acts a natural digestive aid due to the variety of spices.  This tea also gets a kick from the addition of pepper, as you can tell, Chai is definitely not your typical tea.  Once you try it, expect it to become one of your favorites.

While I typically brew my own Chai at home, you can score a Tall, Soy, Chai (my drink order) at your local Starbucks!

Bring It, Fall!
The Hoff

On Display At A Kitchen Near You!

It's true!  If you make healthy food easily accessible, you will eat it!

I found this out for myself this morning while chopping the weekly veggies.  I suddenly caught myself mindlessly chowing down on a bowl of cherry tomatoes that I had pre-washed and displayed in one of my favorite glass bowls.

I say mindlessly because I hate raw tomatoes and I would never, ever commit such an act consciously.

And you know what?  They weren't half bad.

Keep in mind, that this little trick works equally as well for unhealthy food, if not more so.

Display Responsibly,
The Hoff

Webinar Event: Think Before You Pink

Think Before You Pink is an internet based seminar on the topic of breast cancer and thinking outside the box in terms of traditional treatments, prevention and detection.

Topics:

• Breast Cancer Statistics Today
• What the Government is doing to address the epidemic
• Where is all the research money going?
• The difference between early detection/treatment and prevention. What does cure mean?
• The facts about breast cancer causes
• What you can do to prevent breast cancer and raise awareness!

Presenters:

Dr. Sherri Tenpenny Dr. Sherri Tenpenny is respected as one of the country's most knowledgeable and outspoken physicians regarding the impact of vaccines on health. She is an advocate for free choice in healthcare, including the right to refuse vaccination. Dr. Tenpenny is also an expert on women’s breast health and the use of iodine for disease.

Robyn Stoetzel Robyn Stoetzel RN, BSN, has worked the majority of her nursing career as an Oncology Nurse specialized in Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplants. Robyn is also a former Legal Nurse Consultant and Risk Manager for one of the Top University Hospitals in the Country. Robyn has furthered her career as a holistic health care consultant and has advanced training in the areas of Nutrition and Detoxification. She is currently a Breast Cancer Action and ‘Think Before You Pink’ Activist in her community and educates people on what it means to be ‘Truly Healthy’. She states “The key to health is discovering what is interfering with the bodies innate ability to heal and simply remove it”.

What: Think Before You Pink Webinar
When: 10.18.2011
Where: Your computer!
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM EDT
Cost: Free

Click her to register!

New Blog Alert:From Scratch

Ok, I will just start off with that this blog is not healthy and probably never will be healthy,  but it is bond to be full of German goodness!  It also tugs on my little German heart, so I have to give a shot out to Dorothy Zehnder, the matriarch of all things at the Bavarian Inn.  At 90 years old, Dorothy is trying her hand at blogging and that's after working a 10 hour day in the kitchen of her restaurant!

I have had the pleasure of eating Dorothy's cooking on my many trips to Frankemuth a quaint, little German village in Michigan and the home of Bronner's, the world's largest Christmas Store, open 361 days a year!  (It really is huge and truly magical!)

Dorothy will be writing about about cooking, Michigan, her family and entertaining. She'll also talk about her role as a teacher, role model, philanthropist and mom, so be sure to check out From Scratch!


Viel Glueck Dorothy!
The Hoff

Event: Healthy Hoff presents Cooking with Chef Robin!

Chef Robin

Join The Healthy Hoff for a fun, fall afternoon of learning to cook a healthy and nutritious Vegan meal with Chef Robin, owner of Cooking with C.A.R.E

This will be a hands on cooking class in which you will leave with the skills to make:

• Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
• Black Bean Burgers w/Corn Salsa
• Confetti Quinoa
• Caramel Pears

All food will be non-GMO and organic as available.


What: Vegan Cooking Class conducted by Chef Robin
When: Saturday, 11.5.2011
Where: St. Paul's Community Church: 4427 Franklin Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44113
Time: 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Cost: $45 per person
Deadline: You must register by Wednesday, 11.2.2011
Register & Pay (scroll to bottom of page and look for "Buy a Cooking Lesson")


In an effort to keep costs low, please bring a cutting board, apron and your favorite chopping knife.


Did I mention we get to eat our creations?!?!

But I'm not Vegan.

Who cares!  You don't need to be Vegan to enjoy this class.  Take this opportunity to learn something new, broaden your culinary skills and increase your weekly menu options.  Remember, going meatless just once a week may reduce your risk of chronic, preventable conditions such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Meatless Monday!

Check this out to see how going meatless just once a week can be beneficial!




Want to learn more about Cooking with C.A.R.E?

Sign-up for the Cooking with C.A.R.E newsletter or check out Chef Robin's Blog!

Questions?  Contact me at thehoff@healthyhoff.com

Giant Eagle Bagged Lettuce Recall

Re-post Courtesy of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Media Statement on Voluntarily Recall of Giant Eagle Farmer's Market Shredded Iceberg Lettuce

10/13/2011 11:00 PM EDT

"Giant Eagle has been informed by representatives of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the presence of listeria monocytogenes in a routine random sample test of Giant Eagle Farmer's Market eight ounce package of Shredded Iceberg Lettuce, produced by River Ranch Fresh Foods LLC, with a use by date of October 14,2011. To date, there are no reported cases of customer illness due to consumption of this item."

"The packaged product affected is Giant Eagle Farmer's Market Shredded Iceberg Lettuce (UPC 3003430195). Additionally, the shredded iceberg lettuce was used in a small number of prepared deli ring sandwiches. The affected deli ring sandwiches include: Giant Eagle Large Italian Sandwich Ring (UPC 23755100000), Giant Eagle Mini Italian Sandwich Ring (UPC 24755500000), Giant Eagle Large New York Sandwich Ring (UPC 22755100000), Giant Eagle Mini New York Sandwich Ring (UPC 25755500000), Giant Eagle Large All America Sandwich Ring (UPC 21755100000), and Giant Eagle Mini All American Sandwich Ring (UPC 26755500000)."

"According to the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), the risk of an individual developing a listeria infection after consumption of a contaminated product is very small. Listeriosis affects primarily persons of advanced age, pregnant women, newborns and adults with weakened immune systems."

"Giant Eagle uses loyalty card purchase history data to contact customers who may be affected by food recalls with a health risk. Giant Eagle Advantage Card holders are encouraged to update contact information in the case of a recent change of mailing address or phone number. To communicate changes in contact information, customers may call 1-800-474-4777."

Visit the Mayo Clinic for listeria symptoms and additional information.


Re-post Courtesy of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Pumpkin Seeds

Photo courtesy photos-public-domain.com

Pumpkins seeds are little nutritional powerhouses yielding 5 grams of protein and fiber per 1 ounce serving as well as supplying a nice source of copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium.

But, don't overindulge as pumpkin seeds are high in calories due to their fat content.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Try these flavor combinations:

• Lime juice and salt
• Old Bay seasoning
• Straight up sea salt
• Sugar, cinnamon, salt and a little chili powder

No oil is needed, although commonly used.

Spread seeds flat on baking sheet and roast for 10 - 40 minutes at 325 degrees until edges turn brown;  stirring every 10 minutes as cooking time is dependent on the moisture level of the seeds.

While eating pumpkin seeds alone is the most common use, keep these seeds in mind for salads, baked goods, casseroles or rice dishes.

Happy Carving!
The Hoff

Free Event: Healing Cancer World Summit

Be a part of cancer history.  

"Never before has a panel of natural cancer experts like this been put together to reveal their stories, experiences, results, tips and strategies that they say can be used to help prevent and even treat cancer."

"The "Healing Cancer World Summit" is an online event that has 5 nights of lectures from natural cancer experts, doctors and nutritionists that will give you the information that they say will help you prevent or even treat cancer naturally. This information is not well known, and in fact, is somewhat controversial."

"The "Healing Cancer World Summit" will give you the information to help you be healthy for as long as you possibly can be."

Healing Cancer World Summit Topics Include:

• Natural therapies doctors are using to prevent and treat cancer
• Herbs and supplements that are scientifically known to prevent cancer
• Scientific and documented proof that natural cancer treatments work
• How to detoxify and cleanse the body safely and naturally, and more

Top Alternative Cancer Treatment experts will include Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez, Dr. Francisco Contreras, Charlotte Gerson, Burton Goldberg, Mike Adams, and more!

What: Healing Cancer World Summit
When: 10.25.2011 - 10.30.2011
Where: Your computer!
Time: 8 PM EST / 5 PM PST - 10 PM EST/ 7 PM PST
Cost: Free!
Registration: Just supply your email address to get access

All you need is access to YouTube or have the ability to listen to a MP3 in order to participate in this event.

Digital and Print packages will be available for purchase after this event, but this is your only shot to hear this info for free.

Check out this short video to learn more.

Hoff Hit: Burn Calories with Apples

Yes, apples are naturally low in calories (55-110, depending on size) but picking them yourself can help you burn up to 200 - 300 calories per hour, not too shabby!

Find an orchard new you


Northeast Ohio Orchards

Check Out Femme Fitale Fitness Gear!

If you workout, you have got to check out what Femme Fitale Fitness has for you!

This cool little site has just kicked fitness, weight and golf gloves up a notch by blinging them out in hot colors, animal prints and Swarovski crystals (I do love me some Swarovski!).  Oh yeah, they threw a little 100% soft lambskin leather into the mix - meow!

Ranging from $19.99 to $34.99, I say get a couple pairs to keep the workout week interesting.

Hey, fellas - Christmas is coming (hint, hint...)!

And you thought working out had to be boring.

Check these gems out for yourself!



Work it Girl!
The Hoff

Hoff Hit: Baked Potatoes

Place potatoes directly on the oven rack (peels on of course) for a crispy outer experience.  No foil needed!

400 degrees for one hour should do it.

DIY Pumpkin Facial

Photo Courtesy: EverythingPumpkin.org

Brighten your complexion with this DIY Pumpkin Facial!

Egg whites have a "tightening" effect on skin and can reduce the appearance of minor breakouts and enlarged pores.  The nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants in the pumpkin provide a natural glow (no, not orange!) as well as sloth off dead skin cells to reveal the soft, smooth skin beneath.

Ingredients:

• 1 Egg White
• 1/2 cup Canned Pumpkin

Directions:

1. Mix Egg White & Pumpkin together
2. Apply to dry face
3. Leave on for 10 minutes
4. Remove with wet cloth

Check out more DIY pumpkin skin care recipes at Everything Pumpkin!

10 Fit Foods for Fall

This is a re-post courtesy of: BeachBody.com

10 Fit Foods for Fall
By Joe Wilkes

1. Apples. An apple a day can keep the doctor away in more ways than one. Studies have shown that the nutrients found in apples can help lower cholesterol, manage diabetes, and prevent several diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and asthma. Make sure you don't peel the apple though, because the peel contains quercetin, an antioxidant shown in a Finnish study to help reduce the risk of heart disease and inhibit tumor growth. Additionally, apple skin contains insoluble fiber, and the fruit's flesh contains pectin, a soluble fiber. While apples are great on their own, they're also yummy and crunchy when added to salads, and sweet and tasty when baked in desserts.
2. Corn. Generally, our society eats way too much corn. It's in almost every food we eat, especially in its most nefarious form—high fructose corn syrup. It's easily America's number-one crop. But fall is the time when we get the harvest of the tastiest sweet corn. Besides being delicious, in its unprocessed state it's actually quite healthy. A food study at Cornell University showed that ferulic acid, an antioxidant produced when sweet corn is cooked, can also be helpful in fighting heart disease and cancer. Plus corn is a good source of vitamins B1, B5, and C; folate; and fiber. Besides eating it on the cob, try corn in salads or as a colorful, crunchy addition to salsa.
3. Cucumbers. Some people never see cucumbers until they've been pickled, sliced, and added to two all-beef patties and a sesame seed bun. However, in their fresh, unpickled state, cucumbers are very low in calories (just 4 calories per ounce), are a natural diuretic, and are thought to help in the prevention of pancreatic, liver, and kidney diseases. Cucumbers also contain potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. Their skin contains silica, which helps strengthen the body's connective tissue. And cucumbers aren't just for eating; the juice makes a great skin lotion. Those spa ladies with cucumber slices on their eyes aren't doing it for nothing. Cucumber juice reduces swelling, and not just for under-eye bags—also for burns and skin disorders. One tasty way to enjoy cucumbers is my Russian grandmother's simple recipe of thinly sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced onion, low-fat yogurt, and chopped dill. (She actually used sour cream, too, but we won't go there.)
4. Eggplant. Eggplant contains lots of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and also high levels of antioxidants, including nasunin, which has been shown to help protect cells from free radical damage. Eggplant also contains terpenes, which are believed to help lower cholesterol. Eggplant is a very versatile ingredient in all kinds of cooking, including Italian, Indian, and Chinese dishes. It can be baked, stewed, or sautéed, among other cooking methods. One thing to watch out for is that the flesh of the eggplant is highly absorptive, so if you fry it in oil, it'll soak it all up. One helpful technique is to lightly salt sliced eggplant, let it sit for a half hour, and rinse the salt off before cooking it. This will cause the cell structure of the eggplant to contract, making it a little less spongy. My mom's been dealing with a bumper crop of eggplant from her backyard garden and has been putting eggplant in everything. A recent success was replacing the pasta in her favorite lasagna recipe with thinly sliced eggplant. It absorbed the tomato sauce instead of the oil and made the dish richer and creamier.
5. Grapes. There's been much written about the benefits of wine, but you don't have to get loaded to get the benefits of grapes. In their unfermented state, they're a great source of vitamins A, B6, and C; folate; potassium; calcium; magnesium; zinc; and fiber. Like apples, they contain the antioxidant quercitin. They also contain resveratrol, which has been shown to help prevent blood clots and protect arteries from free radical damage. Generally speaking, the darker the grape, the higher the antioxidant levels. Grapes are great snacks that are low in calories. They're great when added to salads, or you can freeze them for a frosty treat.
6. Okra. This may be the most intimidating ingredient on this list. Many people are put off by okra's bristly outside and somewhat slimy inside, but it has a lot of health benefits that should make you take a second look. It's full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. And it has great gastrointestinal benefits. Its high mucilage content, which thickens stews and gumbos, also helps absorb cholesterol, toxins, and bile, and has a gentle laxative effect. Its seeds contain amino acids and protein. Plus it's believed to be good for the skin and hair. (It's been said that Cleopatra ate okra as part of her beauty regimen.) Okra is great in soups and stews, or lightly sautéed as a side dish.
7. Pears. This is my favorite fall food. The biggest, juiciest pears start showing up in farmers' markets right about now. Besides being a great source of stains on my shirts, they have high levels of vitamins C and K, copper, and fiber. They contain even more of the soluble fiber pectin than apples, which can play an important part in digestive health and in lowering cholesterol. Pears have also been shown to reduce kidney inflammation and colitis. Asian pears, which are crunchy, like apples, are also in season now and contain the health benefits of both fruits. Pears are great plain, broiled, or poached. Plus Asian pears can be shredded as a healthy addition to a slaw.
8. Peppers. Whether you like them spicy or sweet, now is prime pepper-picking time. Fiber-rich peppers have high levels of vitamins A, C, and K; red peppers have the most. Red peppers, like tomatoes, are also good sources of lycopene, which studies show may be linked to cancer prevention. Hot peppers contain capsaicin, which has been shown to help prevent ulcers and lower cholesterol. Plus hot peppers can help ramp up your metabolism. I can't think of many dishes that couldn't be improved with a little peppery zip. Soups, stir-fries, salads . . . I even had some chocolate cayenne ice cream that was pretty good.
9. Raspberries. Raspberries are some of the healthiest—but priciest—berries
   
   out there. So now, when they're in season, is the most economical time to enjoy them. Raspberries contain several flavonoids called anthocyanins, believed to have antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent fungal and yeast infections and aid with irritable bowel syndrome. A Netherlands study showed that raspberries contain 10 times as many antioxidants as tomatoes. Like apples and pears, they also contain high levels of pectin. While they're great as snacks and desserts, think about trying them in salads too.
10. Tomatoes. The big new star of the tomato nutritional profile is lycopene. This carotenoid has increasingly been shown to be a powerful antioxidant that may play a big role in preventing cancer and heart disease. They're also great sources of vitamin C. And for those of you who don't care for raw tomatoes (as George Carlin said, they look like they're in the larval stage), tomatoes lose very little of their nutritional value when cooked. So they can be enjoyed stewed, in sauce, and even as ketchup (although we recommend a ketchup free of high fructose corn syrup and low in sodium). This is a prime time to seek out tomatoes at the farmers' market. Especially exotic are the heirloom varieties that come in yellows, greens, purples, browns, and reds. They can make a beautiful multicolored and antioxidant-rich salad.

This is a re-post courtesy of: BeachBody.com

Keeping it Real with Pumpkin!

Photo Courtesy: guitarman68

As fall descends upon us and the air turns crisp, the aroma of backyard fires linger and the leaves transform to varying shades of burnt amber, golds and reds... my taste buds awaken for that treasured fall favorite...pumpkin.

If you've been following along, you already know the nutritional benefits of pumpkin and how best to get pumpkin, if not - it's homework time!

The rest of you may proceed...

Here are a few interesting pumpkin recipes that I pulled from one of my favorite recipe sites: AllRecipies.com.  I haven't tried them yet, but I intend to!

Tofu Pumpkin Pie
Vegan Pumpkin Ice Cream
Pumpkin Butter III
Roasted Pumpkins
Cooked Pumpkin (for puree)
Elin's Pickled Pumpkin

Get Your Pumpkin On!
The Hoff

Chickpea Magazine: Support a Start-up & Be Rewarded!

Check out Chickpea Magazine, a quarterly Vegan, lifestyle publication looking to published it's first paper version this Fall.

Chickpea brings Vegan bloggers and artists together for a unique cooking experience and much, much more!

While Chickpea has blown away their $1,000 goal to publish their first print edition of the magazine, you can still be a part of this unique start-up opportunity.

A donation of $22 will score you a copy of their Fall 2011 edition.  There are additional donation packages as well with goodies galore - check them out!

Take a peak at the online version of Chickpea - the photography is AMAZING!

Don't hesitate, the funding drive will end in six days on October 13, 2011.

Check out Chickpea's funding request video and meet the creators - Bob & Cara! 

Goodbye VegiTerranean...

This totally sucks!!!!

I am in complete shock that VegiTerranean, Chrissie Hynde's vegan restaurant in Akron, Ohio - the restaurant that I adore, closed it's doors once and for all on October 2, 2011.

It's not helping that I was there on October 1st - one day prior!  Zero sign of closing, no hints by the staff, in fact they launched a brand new lunch menu that day in which I had the most amazing Tomato Bisque soup with OMG yummy Grilled Cheese!  Thank god despite the fact that I was completely stuffed, I still opted for dessert to go.

Read Chrissie's goodbye note for yourself.

This is a sad, sad day for vegans, vegetarians and just plain foodies.

Excuse me, I have to go cry now...
The Hoff

Hoff Hit: Fidget Away

Fidgeting burns extra calories!

Not a lot, but enough to boost the bodies ability to get the oxygen pumping to your muscles.

The Healthy Hoff Graduates!

I couldn't wait to be done with college, but for some reason since I graduated, I just can't seem to stop taking classes!

My latest endeavor has earned me a certification in a program called, Wellness 101 from The Wellness Forum in Columbus, Ohio.

"Wellness 101 takes a thorough look at the science of diet and health and the skills needed to adopt a program of dietary excellence (tm) and optimal habits."  In other words, you won't get opinionated information with this course, what you will get is scientific based facts and it's hard to dispute science.

I found this course very interesting and picked up a lot of great tips to work into my lifestyle.  The book was an easy read and the accompanying DVDs of live class lectures helped to reinforce what was being taught.  I also enjoyed the weekly lecture calls that give you an opportunity to speak directly with Dr. Popper, who by the way, teaches the course.

To take the Wellness 101 course, you have to become a member of The Wellness Forum, but with that comes added benefits:

• Weekly Conference Calls and Workshops - topics ranging from sports nutrition to cancer prevention and treatment.
• Monthly "Conversations with Dr. Pam" - your chance to ask The Wellness Forum's founder questions about diet, health and medicine
• Monthly "Conversations with Chef Del" - get expert advice about food and cooking
• Members-Only Website - in addition to recipes and other helpful information, you'll have access to a growing library of workshops, Conversations with Dr. Pam and Conversations with Chef Del are posted for you to listen to any time!
• Special Prices on cooking classes and other events
• Free Shipping on orders over $250, within the continental U.S.
• Ongoing Support to help you in filtering and making sense out of the enormous amount of information about health you're exposed to every day!

The Wellness Forum was founded and is headed by Dr. Pamela Popper, whom I had the pleasure of meeting.

I found Dr. Popper to be quite knowledgeable and very straightforward in her approach to health and wellness.  It helps that she runs in the same social circle as Dr. John McDougall creator of the McDougall Health and Medical Center, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn of The Cleveland Clinic and Dr. T. Colin Campbell, author of The China Study - three medical professionals of whom I hold high regard for.

While classes are taught at their Columbus facilities, I was fortunate enough to take advantage of their distance learning program.  In other words, you don't have to live in Ohio to take this program. In fact, there were students from around the country in my class, including a few from Vegas.

The class lasts six weeks and covers a lot of material that can be directly applied to your life.

So, if you're interested in ways to make your lifestyle a little healthier or are just confused about all the conflicting health info out in the world today, check out The Wellness Forum, you won't be disappointed.

Keep Learning!
The Hoff