Informative

7 Ways to Celebrate the World Kindness Day 2021 0

World Kindness Day is an international holiday celebrated annually in many countries, including the United States, Italy, Australia, and Japan on November 13^th.¹ The purpose of the day is to emphasize the importance of kindness. It helps every person to understand the importance of compassion in unifying people and nations. People can pledge and promote acts of kindness as individuals or as organizations. The day presents an opportunity for everyone to reflect on kindness since it is one of the most important and unifying human principles.²

Currently, people and nations are getting divided every day. We may feel powerless to change the situation. However, when we all do small acts of kindness for one another, it helps to make the world a better place. Kindness doesn't need much effort, but it has a significant impact on the people around us. That's the purpose of World Kindness Day: to celebrate kindness and inspire others to do the same.³

During World Kindness Day, everyone worldwide comes together and creates a chain reaction of compassion by performing random acts of kindness for people around strangers and us. You don't need to spend money; you need to do something nice for someone else. The goal is to spread kindness around the globe and to encourage as many people as possible to participate in World Kindness Day 2021.⁴

History of World Kindness Day

World Kindness Day was first introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement. The organization was formed in 1997 at a conference in Tokyo by various organizations that championed kindness in the world. Twenty-eight nations were involved in the conference that is not related to any religious or political movement.¹ The World Kindness movement was officially registered as an official NGO in 2019 under Swiss Law. ²

During the 1997 conference, the written declaration for the inception of World Kindness Day stated the pledge to join together to build a kinder and more compassionate world. The declaration facilitated the launch of World Kindness Day in 1998. As outlined by the World Kindness Movement, the purpose of the day is "to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us." ³

The day is devoted to promoting small acts of kindness by individuals and organizations to unify people. Since the launch of World Kindness Day, it has achieved global notice. Many events have been created worldwide to celebrate the day, such as concerts; dance mobs; and the distribution of kindness t-shirts, cards, and printouts.²

Although the day is still under unofficial observance, the World Kindness Movement hopes to attain official recognition status by the United States. If successful, World Kindness Day would join the other recognized days of observance, such as the International Day of Peace, Human Rights Day, and World Health Day.¹

How to Celebrate World Kindness Day 2021

Wear a kindness t-shirt. Please take a photo and share it on social media with the hashtag #WorldKindnessDay
Do random acts of kindness. Be kind to a stranger. Being kind doesn't have to cost money. Simple actions can go a long way to inspire kindness in the world. Go out of your way to be kind to others at your workplace, in school, or your community. Pledge to do one intentional act of kindness. Smile when you walk by others. Hold the door for an older person. Compliment your coworkers for their kindness, or send an encouraging text to at least five people on your contact list.
Appreciate others for their kindness and generosity. There are kind people around you who do acts of kindness all year long. Appreciate them for their kindness and encourage them to go on with that spirit. Look for opportunities to add kindness to someone's day.
Buy flowers for your loved ones. Treat a stranger or a friend to a cup of coffee. Offer to help a stranded stranger. Reach out to a family member you haven't talked to in a while, or cook for your sick family member.
Volunteer in shelters and baby homes. Donate food or toiletries to street families.
Hug someone. Send an uplifting message to someone who may be stressed.
Include intentional acts of kindness in your daily routine. For example, allow someone to cut you in traffic with a smile. They are probably in a rush because of an emergency.

Happy World Kindness Day from Mother Earth Products. Get creative and make your list of kind acts for World Kindness Day!

"The world is full of kind people. If you can't find one, be one." – Unknown.

References

Are Banana Chips Really Healthy? Here’s What You Need to Know 0

Photo by **Renata Brant** from **Pexels**

Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably heard of the new chip that's making waves in the health food aisle. Yes, we're talking about banana chips. The indulgent snack seems to be taking the clean eating world by storm, and its health halo shows no signs of fading away. But the question that everyone keeps asking is: are banana chips healthy, or is there something hiding between those nutrition label lines? Well, here's what science has to say.

What Are Banana Chips?

As the name implies, banana chips are crispy slices of banana, which are usually fried in oil and are coated with sugar or honey for a sweeter taste. Some companies even season the chips with salt and/or spices for a flavor kick.

Considering the processing they go through to reach our table (or better yet, bowl), it's fair to say that banana chips are nothing like raw bananas. But, since we shouldn't compare and contrast different types of food (i.e., fresh vs. processed), let's see how the various kinds of banana chips stack up against one another.

Are There Multiple Kinds of Banana Chips?

Before we delve deeper into the snack's nutritional value, you should know that all banana chips aren't created equal. While most of them are highly processed, one type doesn't undergo the intense processing that others do (except, perhaps, for freezing and dehydration). This type is known as freeze dried bananas.

What's the Difference Between Processed & Freeze Dried Banana Chips?

• Processed Banana Chips

Made from slices of under-ripe bananas, processed chips⁽¹⁾ are deep-fried and soaked in a sugary solution. Between frying and sugar-coating, the snack loses most of its original nutritional value and ends up being more of an indulgent candy than a healthy treat.

• Freeze Dried Bananas

Unlike their processed "cousins," freeze dried bananas aren't subjected to drastic cooking methods that alter their nutritional profile in a heartbeat. On the contrary, they are just freeze dried under the lowest temperatures possible, a technique⁽²⁾ that helps them retain most of their nutrients and bio-compounds. So, by default, freeze dried bananas are almost as nutritious as raw bananas. They also don't contain any additives (i.e., sugar or flavor enhancers), which is always a plus.

The Nutritional Value of Banana Chips

The nutritional value of banana chips depends on the processing they go through before they hit the shelves. Below we list the nutrition ‘deets’⁽³⁾ on the variety you're most likely to run into while shopping (a.k.a. processed).

So, a one-cup serving of the snack (72 g) provides you with:

Calories: 374
Protein: 1.6 grams
Carbs: 42 grams
Fiber: 5.5 grams
Sugar: 25.4 grams
Total Fat: 24.2 grams
Saturated Fat: 21 grams
Vitamin B6: 0.187 mg (that's about 11% of your RDI)
Potassium: 386 mg (that's about 8% of your RDI)

The Downsides of Consuming Processed Banana Chips.

Before we list the reasons why you shouldn't consume the snack all too often, we should mention that these downsides refer solely to processed banana chips, a.k.a. the kind that is deep-fried and sugar-coated before hitting the shelves.

• High in Saturated Fat & Harmful By-Products

Even though they start off healthy, store-bought banana chips lose their "clean eating" status as soon as they hit the frying pot. According to experts⁽⁴⁾, the most common oils used for this process are coconut and palm oils⁽⁵⁾ (both known for being high in saturated fats).

Research⁽⁶⁾ also shows that frying banana slices in coconut oil triggers the production of PAHs⁽⁷⁾ (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons), a complex group of chemicals that are linked to several diseases, including cancer. These compounds are also described as "lipophilic," which means they tend to cling onto fat cells. So, unless metabolized, they linger around in the lipid tissues (with whatever health issues this may entail).

• High in Sugar & Calories

Besides frying, most banana chips are also coated with sugar, honey, or syrup to acquire a slightly sweeter taste. This step helps make the snack more flavorful and, thus, irresistible. Now, we all know that sugar is high in carbs⁽⁸⁾, so the snack becomes an instant calorie bomb. What's also troubling is that, given the chips' addictive crunch, it's hard to stop at just a handful and keep the calorie count at bay.

The Benefits of Consuming Freeze Dried Bananas

Before we check out why this snack can be a solid snacking choice, note that these benefits refer to the freeze dried variety that's minimally processed and handled.

• High in Nutrients

When it comes to nutrients, freeze dried bananas are almost as dense as the real deal. And that's because freeze drying⁽⁹⁾ doesn't strip the chips off of their original contents. In fact, the technique removes 99% of the food's moisture, allowing the chips to retain the water-soluble vitamins and minerals that'd otherwise be lost throughout the process.

• Low in Sodium

Compared to potato (and even veggie) chips, freeze dried bananas are considered a much healthier option – and that's mainly because of their low sodium content⁽¹⁰⁾. Since the snack doesn't contain or use salt as a flavor enhancer, it's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep their sodium intake in check but can't resist the crunch of a chip.

• Long Shelf Life

One of the most convenient benefits of freeze dried bananas (and chips, in general) is their long shelf life⁽¹¹⁾. Since they contain very little water, these bites don't oxidize as quickly⁽¹²⁾ as raw bananas, sparing you from throwing them away almost a week after you bought them.

• Easy to Carry Around

Given their small size and portable nature (along with the fact that they don't require a cooler), banana chips are an excellent snack choice for people on the go and hikers.

So, Are Banana Chips Healthy? The Takeaway

Of course, they are. But ONLY IF there are prepared the right way, a.k.a. not dried-and-fried in saturated fat. That said, when you need something sweet and crunchy to tame your sweet tooth, reach for a handful of freeze dried bananas rather than the processed kind. The fruity snack contains the same nutrients as raw bananas and tastes just as great (without the use of saturated fats and added sugar). Or you could go for plan B: Eat a banana!

If you want to explore more sides of the fruit (other than its chip form), these banana recipes won't disappoint.

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Build New, Healthy Habits During National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month 0

By now, we all know that fruit and vegetables are the easiest way to eat healthily. But, between our hectic schedules and non-stop chores, eating the "rainbow" isn't always an option. The good news? We still have a shot at (nutritional) redemption as June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month⁽¹⁾. This month-long celebration is the perfect chance to make healthy eating a reality and not just a goal. So, if you want to get started on a healthier path, here are seven easy ways to make the most out of this year's National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month.

1. Revamp Your Fridge and Pantry

One of the coolest ways to celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month (and up your daily produce intake in the process) is to stock your fridge and pantry with the season's most popular superfoods.

Unfortunately, that means that you first have to identify and get rid of all the "danger-foods," which may take some time. But, once you do that, it's all smooth sailing. All you have to do is check what's in season, and fill your kitchen to your heart's content.

But, remember: "Out of sight, out of mind" bears great truth when it comes to eating (or not eating) fruit and vegetables. And that's because people are three times more likely to consume the foods they see first⁽²⁾, which means where you put your food matters. So, make sure you place your produce in plain sight so that you're more apt to grab them when you're looking for a snack. Specifically:

Move fruit and vegetables from the crisp drawer to the eye-level shelves,
Set out a bowl full of fruits and veggies at an accessible spot in your kitchen, and
Pre-cut your fruit and vegetables to have them ready in times of need.

Also, re-arrange your fridge and cupboards so that the healthy stuff lies at the front.

2. Get Cooking

There's a certain appeal to having a meal being delivered straight to your door, especially on those days when you have zero time to hit the grocery store and prep your ingredients. But, cooking at home is the only way to make sure you get your daily dose of fruit and veggies. So, to nail the whole "cooking-in" thing, just:

find a bunch of accessible recipes that work for you;
keep your pantry stocked with an assortment of meal-starters such as tomatoes, beans, and potatoes; or
learn to cook what you're craving.

3. Hit the Farmer's Market

Besides being the National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month, June is also the month that marks the beginning of the farmer's market season. Produce stands pop up here and there, which means this is your chance to fill your reusable shopping tote with summer's most delicious produce, including apricots, grapes, and bell peppers.

But, having an array of fresh foods to choose from is just one of the perks of hitting the farmer's market. Research⁽³⁾ also shows that shopping from a farmer's market makes people more excited about eating the fruit and veggies they buy. As a result, they tend to eat more produce in their daily life, improving their health little by little.

4. Start Your Own Garden

These days, more and more people are discovering the joys of food gardening. From fruit to veggies to herbs, modern-age horticulturists are playing with dirt, aspiring to grow their own food and make the world a more sustainable place. However, the biggest upside in all of this is -without a doubt - that green thumbs get to eat healthier all year long. In fact, according to a recent study, gardeners tend to eat more fruit and vegetables than non-gardeners, probably because they have access to them all year round.

So, if you're thinking of jumping on the food gardening bandwagon, there's no time like the present. Take advantage of the National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month and explore the variety of seasonal produce that June has to offer. Our only tip: Take some time to find out what each plant needs (water, sunlight, soil composition), and nature will take it from there. Soon, you'll get to enjoy a range of fresh foods straight from your backyard.

5. Experiment With New Produce

Another cool way to build healthy habits during National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month is to try out new plants. June, and summer in general, is known for its wide selection of in-season foods. So, make the most of it by exploring a new crop every week. Cantaloupes, honeydews, okras... the list is practically endless. If you have a family, you can get them in on the action by taking turns and having a member choose a new flavor each time.

You can even try your fresh fruit and veggies in all shapes and forms by prepping them in a different way every time. So, don't hesitate to roast them, blend them into smoothies, or even grill them. You can also pair them with seemingly unsuited foods like watermelon with Feta cheese. Who knows? Maybe you'll come across a flavor combo that strikes up your fancy more than you believed it would.

6. Brown-Bag It

Work lunches aren't always conducive to healthy eating. But, come this June, you can turn the tables at work by giving your desk a makeover. Just swap out the candy and "calorie bombs" that lie around with fresh fruits and get your colleagues in on the act by offering them veggie-laden lunches that are too hard to resist. With a little planning, you can even prep a different produce-based meal for each day of the week, and avoid getting stuck into a rut.

7. Educate Yourself

If you're serious about changing your produce-to-junk-food ratio, there are also thousands of free resources that can help you make the most out of each plant that crosses your path. From learning how to use every part of it (and minimize food waste) to figuring out how they affect your health, you can educate yourself on pretty much anything nutrition-related. There are also apps, like Local Harvest, that could help you find the nearest farmer's markets.

How will you take advantage of National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month? Let us know in the comments below!

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Eat What You Want Day 0

May 11 is the National Eat What You Want Day. Although we eat food every day, this day is unique because you can eat whatever you want.

In the current era, people are obsessed with diets and meal plans. You probably spend time stressing over what you can or cannot eat. To make it worse, the magazines splash images of perfectly toned models that can make you feel inadequate.

There are several food fads that come and go. But on May 11, everyone can relax and forget about their diet goals just this once in a year. You can try something new or indulge in the craving that you've been putting off.

History of Eat What You Want Day

Eat What You Want Day was initiated by Thomas and Ruth Roy. The intention was to help people break away from the overwhelming diet plans, and diet trends, for just one day.¹ They have created about 90 fun holidays that are registered officially under the Wellcat Holidays.²

Giving yourself a break often is good for you. Signing up for low calories diet fads can potentially make you overeat when you switch back to your normal diet patterns

Why Should You Celebrate Eat What You Want Day?

Have a break from the usual

This day is a perfect break from the norm of keeping up with strict diet plans and allows you to eat just this once. It is totally okay to check on your diet, no dispute. After all, not everyone has a naturally fast metabolism. It also gives you a chance to flip your routine and put away the structure. You can scrape off your meal plan just this once and be spontaneous.

Have the freedom to choose

Eat What You Want Day is a perfect chance to have the freedom to indulge in your cravings without feeling guilty about it. It provides an opportunity to help you hold on your regimen longer since you'll have a chance to soothe your cravings then get back on track.

Be kind to yourself

By indulging in your craving without any guilt, you show kindness to yourself. It gives you the assurance that you can keep with the diet all year long, but just this once you satisfy your inner self of whatever it yearns for. It will teach you to be kind to yourself.

How to Celebrate Eat What You Want Day

It's easy to celebrate this holiday since you can eat whatever you want. You can stop counting the calories and eat some ice-cream, pizza, or fries. Since everyone is different, you get to choose whatever will make you happy and quell your cravings that have been bothering you.

However, it's not only junk foods that qualify in the eat what you what day checklist. You can spoil yourself to an expensive meal that you would not buy every day. Like treating yourself to a five-course meal at a restaurant. Call your favorite restaurant and order. Make sure to get your favorite bottle of wine as well. You deserve it.

Considering the current situation in the world, you can also consider recreating your favorite childhood meal, this time with the help of your children and spouse as you stay at home. Get the recipe from your mom or grandma. The critical thing is to indulge in something that you enjoy whatever food that you choose to celebrate this one day.

What People Eat On Eat What You Want Day

You have your own choices, but what are people eating? The top food that most Americans would eat daily if they did not have to worry about the consequences is pizza. The other top foods include pasta, burgers, ice cream, tacos or burritos, chocolate, and French fries - in that order. The others are French fries, cakes, cookies, cheese and donuts.³

How To Make Eat What You Want Day Fun

There are several ways to make Eat What You Want Day fun?

First, you can switch things up and eat what you'd eat for diner at breakfast and have breakfast for dinner. You can eat some pancakes sprinkled with maple syrup and bacon and a smoothie. It's up to you.

Second, you can allow your children to be in charge of meals this day to make it fun for them. Let them decide what will be for dinner this day so that they can also have their own food fantasy come to fruition. You may be surprised to get a delicious treat that you wouldn't think of yourself.

Third, you can break your regular food routine. Ditch the lunchbox and go for lunch with your colleagues. Change your typical routine and enjoy the day.

Lastly, celebrate Eat What You Want Day by ordering or preparing your favorite food that you cannot eat regularly because you're sticking to a diet. Make sure to make it a family affair, especially now that you’re in isolation, and you can't meet with friends.

Life is short to not to have a break from a strict diet this once. Give in to your sweet tooth because no one should give you a side-eye or tell you what you shouldn't eat on Eat What You Want Day. It is definitely perfect escape from the counting calories and suppressing the cravings.

References

Holiday Travel Tips To Make It Fun And Get Rid Of The Stress 0

The holidays are coming and for a lot of us that means traveling to go see our families. It could be on a plane or across town. Either way, we've got tips that will help you be safe, enjoy yourself, and de-stress the whole thing so you can relax.

Home And Family Crafts: 5 Best Ways To Celebrate The National Craft Month 0

Did you know that students who participate in a project in arts and crafts are four times more likely to be high performers in academics? Crafting is fun for children, whether it’s making fluffy pompoms, paintings, or decorations. Home and family crafts are an excellent outlet for stress and allow daily inspiration for both children and adults, plus it is a lot of fun. Who said you couldn’t do all the fun stuff just because you are no longer a child?

March is the National Craft Month. It provides an excellent opportunity for everyone to join ideas together and come up with creative pieces. Craft enthusiasts get together and participate in home and family crafts such as coloring, painting, sewing, and knitting. Artists hold content and give special promotions. Whether you want to try a new hobby or learn a new skill, there are various ways to celebrate the craft month.

History of the National Craft Month

In 1994, the Craft and Hobby Association set up the craft month to help people to rediscover the joy and benefits of crafting.² The month is all about discovering new home and family crafts and finding or rediscovering hobbies.

How to celebrate National Craft Month

Learn a new hobby

During this month, artisans and crafters work together to create inspiring art projects. It is an excellent opportunity for you to start a new hobby or share with your family and friends on what you have been working on and introduce your child to crafting.

There is a wide range of home and family crafts to choose from paints, wood, metals, paper, and wood; whatever inspires you, choose to bring your craft idea into reality this month. Learning a new craft will help you to express your creativity and provides stress relief from the usual pressures of life.

Moreover, you feel more confident when you learn a new skill. You can also enroll your child in a school that teaches craft. It is an excellent way for your child to learn new skills and shape them up for the future.

Craft in a group

Can you paint it? Can you sew? Making home and family crafts in a group is a great social event. You can involve your coworkers and friends to create projects that you have interest in and items for charity purposes, like making blankets for premature babies or painting to give children admitted to the hospital. Whatever charity you decide to support, your efforts are valuable, and it will be fulfilling.

Spend time with your children and make some art

Get your children off TV and game consoles and allow them to learn home and family crafts that will shape their future. Join them to make cards or paint and nurture that skill. Allow them to explore their inner artistic nature. Enroll your child to art school if they have a particular interest in arts and crafts, or if you want them to learn a hobby.

Make cards and gifts to your friends and family and explore the inner artist in you. Handmade cards may not be perfect, but it is the thought that counts. Make yours to share what you made on social media with #nationalcraftmonth so that your followers can take a look at your creativity.

Attend local craft events

In case you cannot make any home and family crafts, visit the nearest local craft centers and support the local artists by buying jewelry, scrapbooks, decoration cards, and knitwear. Check for local craft events and festivals and meet people with similar interests in crafts.

Explore nature

You can go to the beach and collect shells which you can paint in different colors. You can use pine cones and leaves to create art. Go outdoors and take photos. Photography is also a form of art that allows you to capture the present moment and appreciate the environment around you. Go in a group because it is more exciting.

Grab your paintbrush or scissors and get crafting this National Craft Month. It is time to learn a new home and family craft skill. Whether you’re an amateur or professional, let out the creativity in you. Don’t forget to share your projects with others and use #nationalcraftmonth and #motherearthproducts on social media. Happy crafting.

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