Bodyfuel. The mobile food business making a difference

Bodyfuel. The mobile food business making a difference

I always felt living in Donegal that it lacked the food businesses for healthy, wholesome food that most other counties had jumped on board with. 

As these have rapidly grown in Letterkenny Co. Donegal recently with places such as Wholegreens and Florence Food Co. Donegal may have just seen one of the best food business yet. 

It was always hard to find places to eat for lunch and breakfast that would fit into my healthy lifestyle however Bodyfuel have literally nailed it on the head. 

Daniel and Amanda Thompson seen a huge niche in the market and set out on a wholesome and healthy journey to provide nourishing food for active and health conscious people. 

This mobile street food trailer primarily based in Stranorlar Co. Donegal focuses on bringing the customer healthy and wholesome breakfast and lunch. You can get everything from blueberry pancakes for breakfast to chilli tacos for lunch. 

My personal favourite is the butternut squash soup. I'm normally not a soup person however this soup slipped right down my throat and into my heart. 

What is also unique about this mobile venture is that the menus change regularly so there's nearly always something new to try. 

 

One of the most appealing factors is Daniel and Amanda. With a positive attitude rain, hail or shine this couple make it ten times more appealing. Such welcoming service and a strong passion for what they do. I couldn't fault them. 

"Exactly what you want when you are out and about. Tasty, wholesome, moreish, guilt free food. Wish you all the best with the company. Looking forward to seeing you along the Wild Atlantic Way for more of that yummy food". 

-Ashleigh Sweeney 

"Love what you do...Fantastic food, Fantastic brand, Fantastic people... Keep it up"

- Darragh Tomas Mac Amhlaoibh

"That fruit bowl was so colourful I actually lost it in the studio, thought I was going nuts? Seriously, found it on my colourful work bench and it tasted great. Felt super healthy all day! See you tomorrow to refuel " 

-Edel Mac Bride 

So what are you waiting for? Stop in on your way to work for a breakfast that will fuel your day. Or even stop by for a coffee. I promise you won't be disappointed. 

Opening hours: 

Monday:         07:00-12:00

Tuesday:         11:00-15:00

Wednesday:   07:00-12:00

Thursday:       11:00-15:00

Friday:            07:00-14:00

Saturday and Sunday closed. 

Main Street Stranorlar 

Until next time.

Riadh X 

5 Morning Rituals to Set your Mind for a Positive Day

5 Morning Rituals to Set your Mind for a Positive Day

Most of us start our day off by hitting that snooze button continually until the very last minute when we realize if we don't wake now we are going to be super late. This attitude will then hang over you for the rest of the day as you drag yourself to and from all the things on your to do list for the day. But imagine having a nice morning ritual that set your mind up for a more positive day. Sounds more appealing doesn't it? 

It makes lots of sense that a good morning routine will rub off on the rest of the day doesn't it? I think about people who sip tea in the morning, do a yoga class or even gaze out the window at the scenery whilst listening to some relaxing music before work. These are always the more organized and grounded people but it's not that hard to become one. 

Here are some helpful tips to set yourself to a positive mind frame every morning so you can make the most of your day. 

1. Wake up on time or even early. 

Those extra few minutes in bed may seem like a great idea at the time but before you know it you have hit that snooze button 5 to ten times and you have 7 minutes to get ready. The horror and panic sets in as you scramble around the house looking for your purse and keys which you probably won't be able to find. When you finally make it out the door you are a stressed and sweaty mess where odd socks and havnt had time for your morning caffeine. 

Reduce your stress by not hitting that snooze button! Just get up, you'll have time to get ready properly and you will feel much better than you took the time to plan your outfit. 

2. Don't look at your phone 

Let's face it! This generation of people are addicted to our mobiles and this is mostly because of social media. Social media can be a very negative place sometimes and that's why you don't need most of what's posted online flowing through your mind first thing in the morning especially when you are trying to be more positive. 

Sure it's all not negative like pictures or your friends, funny you tube videos and beatific scenic Instagram photos. However it's also filled with horrid news, celebrity rants and most of all body degrading posts. So do yourself a favour and leave your phone down in the morning. Even buy a good one fashioned alarm clock to avoid going on snap chat first thing to catch up on everyone's stories! 

3. Meditate 

You are probably going to want to replace looking at your phone with something else in the mornings. 

A meditation routine that had you focusing on your mindfulness and breathing technique is an excellent way to start your day. This is an incredible practice that will reduce stress and set your mind up for a positive day. If you don't know how to mediate there are plenty of apps out there to teach you. So don't be afraid to try it. The mindfullness app: meditation for everyone is a great starter! 

4.Move your body 

Weather this is doing some morning stretches, running outside or taking the dog for a walk, take the time to get your body moving the the mornings. 

Streching is very beneficial to the body. Going through the motions of a yoga routine slowly wakes up the mind and warms up the body. However yoga isn't for everyone. You can find ten minute stretch routines on you tube. 

Streching can improve your posture and increase your blood flow.

A short jog in the morning is another way to clear your cluttered thoughts and set up for a positive day ahead. While running your body releases chemicals which help increase your mood. As well as that there are many benefits of running which include the strengthening of your lungs and broncoli and increasing your bone density. 

• “Our hearts and souls are connected to our bodies and they love to be stretched, cherished, nourished and loved,” Christiansen said. 
• 5. Eat breakfast and Hydrate 

When your on a working schedule it can be easy to grab and banana and a travel mug of tea for your morning breakfast. 

However really taking the time to eat a nutriousing breakfast will make you happier and set you on a positive mind frame first thing in the morning. 

Everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why not turn yours into a ritual? Don’t eat a piece of toast and marmalade as you hurry out the door. Why not make yourself an omelette or blueberry pancakes and sit at the table and really enjoy the meal. If you love coffee, take the time to make yourself a mug of the good stuff. Then enjoy it. 

Everyone knows the health benefits of drinking water. According to a Dr. DAvid Duizer drinking a glass of water is incredibly beneficial in the morning: “Without starting your day with adequate water intake we are likely to remain dehydrated for the rest of the day"

Whatever morning ritual you decide to do, make it a habit. Do it every day. Set up a routine. This is the key to a successful morning ritual to keep a positive mind frame and set you up for the day in all the right ways. 

Until next time

Riadh 

X 

Five Best Irish Food Brands to Try

Five best Irish food brands to try


1. The Foods of Athenry


This company is an enthusiastic farm family run buisness. In 2004 the family sold their cows and the bakery moved into the new empty milking parlour. Thus The Foods of Athenry was born

The the products made by this irish company contain no preservatives, additives or hydrogenated fats and come with taste guaranteed.
All the gluten free products are registered with the Irish Coeliac Society.
Amazingly this company has won 39 taste awards in the last six years. if you havnt tired there products yet you need to jump on the band wagon.

The Cookie Shots in particular hold a special place in my heart.


Products 

• gluten free bars 
• gluten free cakes 
• gluten free breakfast cereals 
• gluten free cookies 

2. Stript Snacks 



This Irish company uses 100% prime beef and air dry it to perfection. It maximizes quality, flavour and nutrients to bring us the best snack.
these products have no artificial colouring, preservatives or curing agents added. They literally have 'STRIPT' all the bad stuff out leaving the customer with a gluten free, MSG free snack that only uses natural ingredients.
These mean products are high in protein, low in fat and packed with essential nutrients for growth and repair.
They are paleo friendly, gluten free and contain no added sugar.

Products  

• chilli biltong 
• black pepper biltong 

These bad boys are perfect for gym goers, or people who want to increase their protein intake. 

Each packet contains a whopping 16g of protein. 

3.Nua Naturals 





This health food business is situated at the edge of the rapidly growing global trends of the the health and wellness to include Raw Foods, Lactose Free and Vegan.
This Galway based company have been nominated for many awards and were finalist for both The love of Dublin Awards 2014 and Blueface 2012.

Products 

• cacao powder 
• bee pollen 
• cacao paste 
• cacao nibs 
• chia seeds 
• coconut flour 
• coconut oil 
• goji berries 
• spicy hot chocolate 
• hemp protein 
• hemp seeds 
• matcha latte 
• maca powder 

This company supplies pretty much every healthy food that you have ever heard of! From healthy hot chocolate mixers to coconut flour for baking delicious healthy treats. It really is a no brainer and a must try food brand. Now if only they did healthy marshmallows and cream. That would definitely be a winner. 

4. Natasha's Living Foods 

Natasha Czopor vision became a reality while she was training as a raw chef in 2007. Since this she set up her own company of healthy and delicious food right from her very out kitchen. Her Dublin based company makes beautifully
natural, healthy and delicious food for the world which make unhealthy snacking a thing of the past. 
Natasha’s Living Food is now an award winning business 
with five full and part-time staff in the factory. 

Products 

Natasha’s Snack Ranges FREE FROM Wheat, Dairy, Egg, Soya, and Refined Sugar. 
 

✔️Natasha's clusters 

✔️Natasha’s kale crunchies 

✔️Mayan love raw cacao spread 

✔️Natasha’s slices 

✔️Natasha's raw desert pots 

✔️Raw fudge collection 

I think you will all agree that we need a treat every now and then so look no further. The products may be slightly expensive but it's due to the high quality of raw and organic ingredients used.My Recommendation would be the mixed berry cashew cream cake and the cacao & coconut slice. Little pieces of heaven! 

 
5. Wyldsson

Snacking on the go should be easy and this company make it so! These pro mix tubes allow you to have a healthy snack close to your hand whenever you are. The packaging is pretty impressive with tubes ideal for your pocket, desk or handbag. 

Dave McGeady is the man behind the Irish start-up which is putting good food into the bags of the world’s top golfers. 

Products 

✔️ Pro Mix tubes 

✔️ Nut Butters 

✔️Overnight Oats

✔️ Coffee

✔️ Coconut Oil 

✔️ Coconut and Almond flour 

Their peanut and seed butter with belgian chocolate chips has to be tried to be believed. Is hard not to eat it with a spoon on the sofa! 

I am all about supporting Irish businesses as its good for the economy and honestly there is no reason not to try these as any one of them will not disappoint your taste buds believe me! Let me know what you think. 

Until next time 

Riadh X 

Asthma and Sulphites

Asthma and Sulphites 

Any one that knows me well will know that I suffer bad with asthma. Recently I read about sulphites and how they can affect asthma if you have an allergy to them. Unfortuntely 5-10% of people in Ireland who suffer with asthma also have an allergy to sulphites. I've put this post together to make people more aware and hopefully it will help.  

Allergens



What is an allergen?


An allergen is any normally harmless substance that causes an immediate allergic reaction in a susceptible person. Food allergens are almost always proteins although other food constituents, such as certain additives, are known to have allergenic properties.

Food Allergens 
A food allergy is an abnormal, exaggerated reaction of the immune system to certain foods. It involves the production of a specific kind of antibody which reacts to a particular food component and, in doing so, causes an allergic reaction.


What are Sulphites? 

• these are a common additive in many foods and drugs. Sulphites also occur naturally in some foods 
• Sulphur dioxide and Sulphites at concentrations of more than 10 mg/kg or 10 mg/litre are labelled as ‘SO₂’. Sulphites include sodium sulphite, sodium bisulphite, potassium bisulphite and potassium metasulphite (E220-228).
• unfortunately 5 - 10 % of people with asthma are also allergic to sulphites.
• the combination of asthma and sulphites can be dangerous. 
• if you have asthma and a sulphite allergy, eating foods or taking drugs that contain sulphites can be life threatening. 

They are used as a preservative in many foods.

Sulphites can trigger asthma attacks.

Sulphites can be found in the following:

• Wine, beer and carbonated soft drinks
• Salads, fruits like pre-packed apricots, prepared vegetables
• Meat products like sausages and beef burgers

Sulphites is the general name for six specific substances 

1. sulfur dioxide 
2. sodium sulfite 
3. sodium bisulfite 
4. sodium metabisulfite 
5. potassium bisulfite 
6. potassium metabisulfite 

As additives sulphites may doing many things 

• they can prevent spoilage and preserve foods, by preventing the growth of mold and bacteria. 
• they can stop fruits and vegetables and seafood from discolouration they can maintain the strength of common medications including some asthma drugs
• they can maintain the strenght of common medications including some athsma drugs! 

Symptoms of a Sulphite Allergy 

• hives 
• trouble breathing 
• drop in blood pressure 
• dizziness 
• flushing 

Asthma and Sulphites 

The combination of asthma and sulphites cab lead to anaphylactic shock. If this happens the airways can swell shut, making it difficult to breathe. As many as 5-10 % of sulphite reactions in people with asthma are fatal. 

Avoiding the problems for asthma sufferers 

Your doctor van tell you if you have a sulphite allergy with a test called a controlled sulphite challenge. If you have asthma and a sulphite allergy it can cause a reaction and asthma attacks so be careful when around them and try to avoid them at all costs. 

Top Tips 

• read labels and check for the sulphites listed above
• be careful with foods that commonly contain sulphites
• when you are out to eat ask the waiter if the food that you are ordering contains sulphites
• check with your doctor to make sure that the drugs you are taking dont contain sulphites 
• always ALWAYS carry your inhauler with you. 

If you have asthma and think you may have an allergy to sulphites dont be afraid to get a allergy test done by your doctor. You never can be too safe 

Until next time. 

Riadh X 

PizzaRiadh. How to make my two ingredient clean eating pizza dough

Two ingredient pizza dough? Hard to believe yes I know. But this is the easiest pizza dough I have made to date and tastes delicious. The best thing about it you don't have to feel guilty about eating it. 

Ingredients 

-Two cups of wholemeal self rasing flour 

-200g of Greek yogurt. 

Note: wholemeal self raising flour can be hard to come by so if you can't find it use normal wholemeal flour and add a tsp of baking powder. 

Method

-Knead flour and Greek yogurt together until you have a well mixed dough. 

-You can then make the dough into balls depending on the size of the pizza you wish to make. 

-You can divide into 2 balls for medium size pizza bases or even 20 balls for mini pizzas for the kids.

-Roll the dough with and rolling pin and wallah! There you can it. As simple as that your clean eating pizza bases. 

After the flour and yogurt is kneaded together. 

The dough is then rolled out and the corners pinched to make a crust. 

Freezing: make double the batch and you can freeze these bases. Stack them up and put a sheet of baking paper between each one. Then wrap the stack with cling film and place in the freezer. To thaw remove from the freezer and simply leave on the work top for ten minutes. 

Method for toppings 

-preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius 

- to make your pizza sauce add garlic, mixed herbs, tomatoe purée and tinned tomatoe and sauté in a pan. 

- in a separate pan sauté any meats you may desire with a tsp of coconut oil. In this case I used chicken. 

-spread the pizza base with the sauce, add cheese and then sprinkle with toppings. 

-bake for 15 mins at 180 degrees Celsius.

The finished product: here Iv topped with mushrooms, spinach, chicken and sweetcorn. 

Until next time 

Riadh X 

Seeds... Small but mighty

You know what they say. Great things come in small packages and that certainly is the truth when it comes to seeds. These fellas and packed full of natural goodness and are quiet scrumptious. 

Here are some different types and what benefit they have. 

Sunflower Seeds 

A handful of sunflower seeds provides you with over ninety percent of your RDI for vitamin E. This fat soluble antioxidant neutralizes free radicals and has significant anti-inflammatory effects. Sunflower seeds are also rich in magnesium, which is necessary for strong bones and helps lower blood pressure, decreases muscle tension, migraine headaches, soreness, and fatigue. These small but mighty little creatures are one of the foods that can help to naturally detox and cleanse the body. 

Pumpkin Seeds 

Pumpkin seeds are a great source of protein, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, copper, B vitamins, vitamin K and vitamin E. They also contain L-tryptophan. This promotes healthy a sleeping pattern and can help lower depression. These seeds also contain high levels of zinc which make them a natural protector against osteoporosis. They are also the most alkaline-forming seed. 

Chia Seeds 

Chia seeds are packed with omega 3 fatty acids with nearly five grams per ounce serving. A single serving of chia seeds has 18% of the RDI for calcium and 27% of RDI for phosphorus. This promotes your bone health. 

They are also rich in fiber which promotes healthy digestion. 

Flax Seeds

These are another seed that are excellent sources of omega 3s. One tablespoon of flaxseed surpasses the RDI of omega 3s. A diet rich in omega 3s help reduce the inflammation that can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis, migraines and asthma. Flaxseeds can lower blood pressure and are also a great source of fiber. The high fiber content helps promote digestive health. 

Sunflower and pumpkin seeds make a great snack on their own. On the other hand chia and sesame seeds make a great addition to many meals. Sprinkled on salads, on top of your morning oats or even mixed with some fruit and yogurt. 

Below are some of my favorite seed brands for you to try. 

Good4U Seed Mixes 

 This Sligo based company have many varieties of seed mixes including super fruit and seed mix, coconut super seeds, chili seed mix and sunflower seeds. 

They also make these super seed snacks for you busy bees who would like a healthy seed snack on the go. These come in flavors such as coconut and berry, Apple and cinnamon and bombay spices. 

These are available from Tesco, Supervalu, Sanisburys and Asda. 

Chia Bia Seeds 

This company based in Tramore, Co. Waterford started in 2009. Ever since then they have been making wonderful chia seed mixtures that are a personal favorite to me. These include chia and blueberry mix, chia and cranberry mix as well as while chia chaos and milled chia seeds. 

If you fancy a snack on the go this company also make a selection of chia bars which are high in omega 3 and full of protein and fiber. My personal favorite is the chocolate but and seed flavour. 

These are available at Holland and Barrett and Selfridges. 

Until next time 

Riadh 

X 

What I eat for breakfast: the overnight oats tutorial

  

What I eat for breakfast: 

The overnight oats tutorial 

I go through lots of breakfast phases. I went through the egg muffin stage, the fruit and yogurt stage, a banana pancake stage, a no breakfast phase, a big breakfast phase and the grab a slice of toast running out the door breakfast phase. 

But at this moment in time I'm going through the overnight oats breakfast phase. 

I'm going to take you through what I eat and more importantly how to make it 

So why are overnight oats so good? 

Various different reasons can answer that question. Here's a few 

* it's one of the easiest recipes ever. There's no cooking involved and it can be made in less than 3 minutes! Yes I'm serious. When you wake up its there waiting for you. All you have to do is eat it. Simple 

* You can serve it either cold or hot. Depending on what mood you are in. If it's a chilly winter morning no problem, warm your belly. Or for those summer days eat it cold. 

* Oats can help reduce cholesterol and they are a great source of whole carbohydrates which are what you need for a fully functionally start to your day. 

* Once you have the basic recipe down you can do so many things to it. Get creative. 

Overnight oats made with oats, cacao powder, cinnamon and almond milk. Topped with blueberries and raspberries 

The Basics 

Throw the dry oats into a bowl. Add whatever fruit you want. Sometimes you may just want to add the fruit in the morning time. You then add something for the oats to absorb so that they can plump. This can be water, yogurt or milk. Put it in the fridge. Overnight the oats will absorb the liquid and when you wake, it's ready to eat. Or take it to work with you.   

The night before 

Add your oats to a bowl. (1/2 cup of dry oats) these can be old fashioned or quick oats. Then a fruit of your choice. I usually use blueberries and sometimes I just add them in the morning if I don't want them squishy. Other fruits I use are apples, bananas, cherries and raspberries. I add some flax and chia seeds for healthy fats and proteins. For liquid I use almond milk. And cacao powder is also a favorite for flavor. Although I do use cinnamon and nutmeg sometimes. Pumpkin seeds are added the night before but I tend to leave crunchy nuts like almonds until the morning to keep them crunchy. 

Step by step 

* add oats to the bowl (1/2 cup) 

* Sprinkle in flax (1 tablespoon) 

* Add chia seeds (1 tablespoon) 

* Add cacao powder (1 tablespoon) 

* Sprinkle some pumpkin seeds 

* Throw in a handful of blueberries 

* Cover the mixture with liquid (almond milk) you can use yogurt for a thicker texture. I don't measure this usually but it's about 1 cup 

* Leave your nuts until the morning to keep them crunchy

* Place in fridge overnight or for at least four hours 

 In the morning 

Throw your dry oats out of the container into a bowl or in a lunchbox to bring to work. The oats have plumped up and you have a healthy filling meal waiting for you to eat! You can add stuff such as peanut butter, almonds or raisins for additional taste. There are so many variations.

Sometimes I like to put the oats into jars. This recipe below is oats, cinnamon, flaxseed, nutmeg, almond milk, cherries, coconut sheers  and pumpkin seeds. 

Variations 

* Fruit: apples, bananas, nectarines, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, cherries. The list goes on..

* Liquid: add yogurt for a thickened texture. Milk or water for a lighter texture. Almond milk, coconut milk, protein milk etc. 

* To sweeten you may add maple syrup or honey. 

* Healthy fats: peanut butter, flax, nuts and seeds. 

* Raisins ,granola, chia seeds or linseed. 

It doesn’t matter what you put in the night before vs. the morning. Just keep out whatever you don’t want getting soggy. I like to keep my nuts until the morning to make sure that they stay crunchy. 

Until next time 

Riadh 

X