Author Archives: Ella Magers, MSW

22 Jul 2015
Going Vegan Tips, Vegan Product Reviews
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Thrive Market: Making Health Food Affordable!

Thrive-Market--Making-health-food-affordable

Eating healthy is too expensive, right? No longer! Introducing Thrive Market, an online retailer for all things healthy… at whole sale prices!

Think Costco meets Whole Foods, and that’s basically what you get with Thrive Market.

In other words, this is a membership-based market that sells healthy foods and eco-friendly products at affordable, whole sale prices. I’m talking 25-40% lower prices than the grocery store. Check out this infographic showing how it’s set up: 

Benefits of a Thrive Market membership:

– When you buy a membership, a membership is also donated to someone who cannot afford one. You’re doing a good deed!

– You can shop and filter results on the website in helpful ways. For example you can search all “gluten-free” products, or “vegan” products. The company makes it simple for you to find exactly what you’re looking for and allows you to shop according to your values!

– It’s not just a shop, it’s a community and wealth of current information on everything wellness-related! There is a blog on the website with contributions from experts in the fields of health, wellness, and fitness. I wrote a blog for them for Memorial Day called, 5 Simple Tips to Eat Right Over Memorial Day Weekend.” 

– You get free shipping on all orders over $49!

– Right now, if you join through my link, you will receive 2 MONTHS FREE and 25% off your first order… It’s a no-brainer!

Thrive Market Special Offer

Check it out for yourself and let me know if you have any questions 🙂

 

 

 

 

20 Jul 2015
Environmentalism, Going Vegan Tips, Vegan Product Reviews, Vegan-Related Books & Documentaries, Vegan-Related Current Events
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Planted in Miami – Conscious Living Community Podcast

Planted-In-Miami-Podcast-Ella

I was recently interviewed for a brand new awesome podcast called Planted In Miami and my episode airs today! Check it out here 🙂 

Planted in Miami: The Concept

“Miami is more than beautiful beaches and glamorous parties. More than a tourist spot and cruise port. It’s also home for a lot of us. A place where people are focused on improving their community and helping others better their lives.

Planted in Miami is an iTunes “New & Noteworthy” podcast about the business owners, artists, musicians, farmers and others who are moving Miami forward through social awareness and community engagement. From environmental causes to healthy lifestyles, animal welfare to conscious living, it’s about giving people the information that they need to make informed decisions about living a more thoughtful and compassionate life.

We want to be the voice that helps put Miami on the map as a forward thinking city. Because it’s not a vacation spot to us – it’s home.”

Listen & Subscribe in iTunes | Stitcher

THE HOSTS

PlantedinMiami_Janette

Jeanette Ruiz is a writer, blogger, yoga instructor, detox specialist and plant-based advocate. “Planted” in Miami since the age of 2, she grew up in the hoods of North Miami and Carol City where she enjoyed the craziness of her Puerto Rican family.  Although years of enjoying ham and cheese a la plancha with Coco Frio sodas were delicious, it wreaked havoc on her digestive system leading to a host of illnesses.  After years of suffering, Jeanette took her health into her own hands and discovered the healing potential of a whole food, plant-based diet.

With this newfound lifestyle came an interest in learning more about where food comes from, what ingredients are in the products we use, how the environment is affected and how exactly do animals fit into all of this.  Through her involvement with the No Meat Athlete-Miami running group and volunteering through various non-profits, Jeanette met tons of people moving Miami forward through their actions.  She was inspired to co-create the Planted in Miami podcast to give these individuals a platform to showcase their ideas and inspiration worldwide.

Obsessions: Reading, Vinyl Records, Cookbooks, Olivia Pope, Singing in the shower

 

 

Plantedinmiami_AlexAlexander Ruiz is a writer, photographer, plant-based advocate and long-distance runner. “Planted” in Miami but hailing from the state of Maryland, he is also the leader of the No Meat Athlete-Miami running group, founded by Matt Frazier.

He studied music at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and is an accomplished (but now retired) saxophonist and arguably, an even better whistler!  (Ask him to whistle you some tunes)

After reading “Eat and Run” by Ultra Marathoner Scott Jurek, he decided to dive deeper into the plant-based lifestyle with the hopes of improving his running performance and overall health.

Many more books, documentaries and podcasts later, he finished adopting a fully plant-based lifestyle and learned of the many benefits this type of diet not only has on his health and well being, but also the environment and animals.

Everyday he strives to learn more about optimizing his health and living a richer, more compassionate and conscious life.

He envisions “Planted in Miami” as the vehicle to help inspire, motivate and educate others to become the very best they can possibly be while helping to build a community in Miami and beyond of like-minded individuals.

Obsessions: Coffee, Longboarding, His beard, Traveling, National Parks, Chess, Analogue photography

I want to personally thank Jeanette and Alex for creating such an awesome concept. I’m honored to be involved! Please join us!!!

 
15 Jul 2015
Traveling Vegan, Vegan-Friendly Restaurants
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New Go-To Vegan Restaurant in South Beach is a Hit!

Vegan-Restaurant-South-Beach-Plant-Theory-Botanical-Cafe

Meet Sheryn Abalos, celebrity vegan chef and owner of Plant Theory Botanical Cafe, a fresh new vegan restaurant in South Beach with much to offer!

Plant Theory Miami Vegan Restaurant Owner Sheryn Abalos

Vegan Restaurant in South Beach-Plant Theory Botanical Cafe
I caught up with the busy vegan chef (who has an infectious smile and contagious positive energy by the way) to find out more about her vision and the secret behind creating such a unique neighborhood vegan restaurant.

Ella: What is your vegan-background? When did you go vegan, why, and how has it shaped your life?

Sheryn: My family was having shake and bake chicken for dinner, and when I took a  bite of the drumstick and saw the little bones and purple veins I realized it was once a living bird. Then, the next day we had a whole baked fish with the head and everything looking back at me. I read what they did to cows and couldn’t justify eating them. As far as dairy is concerned, once I cut it out of my diet I began breathing better and all my skin issues went away. Concerning eggs, I couldn’t eat them after I found out they were unfertilized eggs. All of those factors combined pretty much made me vegan, and while people think it’s harder but for me, it actually cuts out a lot of the crap and makes life easier!

Ella: What made you think Plant Theory Botanical Cafe would be a successful concept in this location at this time?

Sheryn: I think the standard American diet is in dire straits and finally people are making the connection that it does matter what you eat and where it’s from. The majority of fatal diseases are diet related. What better place than South beach to open a restaurant where people can enjoy healthy food that will help them look and feel their best for years and years to come?!

Ella: In what ways is your spot different than other vegan and/or healthy restaurants opening in the area?

Sheryn: Number one we are truly vegan without any compromises such as honey, animal by products etc… We also use organic produce and supplies, and use eco-sustainable products. Our market focus on small artisan crafters you cannot find easily in Miami. Additionally, we are 98% raw with one hot soup and globally inspired special a day. We are a community space and love sharing our space for holistic events and community gatherings.

Ella: What are your top 3 recommendations from the menu for someone to try first?

Sheryn: Wow only 3! That’s hard!
1. Raw Lasagna
2. Grilled Artichoke and Raisin Wrap
3. Raw Save the Salmon Burger
4.  Raw Picadillo Salad

Ella: What advice do you have for people who are new to the idea of veganism and are interested in moving in that direction?

Sheryn: Just try substituting one regular meal with a plant based one at least once a day then increase it as you feel better. Educate yourself… There are so many free resources and community events out there for support and great recipes.

Ella: Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Sheryn: Connecting with our food allows us to pause and realize what and even how you we eating. Eating should be true nourishment for the mind body and spirit. Stop by and experience Plant Theory, it’s a great community space for everyone!

 

Menu Item from Plant Theory Botanical Cafe Miami Beach

Vegan menu item from Plant Theory-Vegan Restaurant in Miami Beach

 

Acai Bowl from Plant Theory-Vegan Restaurant in Miami Beach

Dessert from Plant Theory Botanical Cafe Miami BeachAlso check out Plant Theory on the web:

Yelp

Facebook

Instagram

 

08 Jul 2015
Environmentalism, Going Vegan Tips, Vegan-Related Books & Documentaries
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Vegan Diet Plan: The What, Why, Who, When & How

Cutting veggies for vegan diet plan

Unlike some other so-called “diets,” a vegan diet plan is somewhat of a journey to be explored and continually fine-tuned based on your experiences.

Let’s briefly cover the most basic questions:

“What?”

What is a vegan diet plan? The definition is both clear and broad. “Eating vegan” means eating only plant-based foods and nothing that is an animal, comes from an animal, or is processed using animal. That being said, as much as this may seem restrictive if you are used to eating animal products as part of your every day routine, it’s actually incredibly expansive! There are countless different vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains to incorporate into your meals. Discovering plant foods you’ve never even tried is part of the excitement of going vegan. 

“Why?”

Why is a vegan diet plan beneficial? The reasons are numerous and powerful. First, going vegan means doing your part to help put an end to animal suffering. Today’s factory farming of animals is horrendously cruel, and by eating and wearing animals and their bi-products you support the industries responsible for the suffering. Second, going vegan means improving your health by preventing, treating, and even curing many diseases. Heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, obesity, and other top killers are often caused by an unhealthy diet containing animal products, preservatives, processed, and/or artificial ingredients. You have the power to take your health into your own hands with a vegan diet plan! Third, you can feel and look younger, more energized, and sexier by going vegan. A balanced plant-based diet improves your skin’s condition, gives you energy, drops body fat, increases circulation, improves digestion, just to name a few benefits. Last, by going vegan, you are reducing your environmental footprint and playing a role in saving our planet. If you haven’t seen it yet, watch Cowspiracy, an amazing, interesting, entertaining, and unbiased look into how animal agriculture impacts the world and our resources. The statistics are staggering. Leaving future generations a healthy earth is simply the right thing to do. 

“Who?”

Who should be on a vegan diet plan? This one is simple. Everyone! Everybody will benefit from eating a whole foods plant-based diet. 

“When?”

When should you go on a vegan diet plan? Start your transition NOW! It may not work for you to make the complete switch over to a plant-based diet tomorrow, but there’s no better time than now to get your vegan diet plan put together and begin. In the “How To Go Vegan Beginner’s Guide” you learn how to make a realistic, do-able plan of action, week by week. 

Vegan Diet Plan Beginners Guide“How”

How do you transition to a vegan diet plan? By utilizing the growing quality resources that are available to you! There are tons of awesome websites, books, blogs, forums, and documentaries waiting for you to check out! Here’s a list of the top in each category:

Websites: SexyFitVegan.com, NutritionFacts.org, PCRM.org, 

Books: How To Go Vegan: A Beginner’s Guide, How To Make Your Own Superfood Shake, Six Weeks to Sexy Abs Meal Plan, Eating Animals, 22 Days Revolution, Forks Over Knives,  

Blogs: Sexy Fit Vegan, Plant-Based Strong, 

Forums: Sexy Fit Vegan

Documentaries: Forks Over Knives, Cowspiracy, Fed Up, Hungry For Change, Fat Sick and Nearly Dead

 

 

 

 

30 Jun 2015
Going Vegan Tips, Vegan Product Reviews, Vegan Recipes
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Vegan Meal Plan for Fourth of July

Fourth-of-July-Vegan-Diet-Plan

The Fourth of July is the perfect opportunity to try out some awesome easy summer recipes and products as part of your vegan diet plan!

If you know me, you know I’m all about easy vegan recipes and having fun. Independence Day is certainly no exception! Barbecues may seem a bit intimidating if you’re newly vegan or working on transitioning to a vegan diet plan, but don’t worry, I have you covered! Check out these simple recipes and vegan dish ideas to get you started planning your vegan menu for the fourth of July. Play around with them to make them you’re own. They are all easily modified to give you the ultimate satisfaction based on your individual tastes. Enjoy!!! 

Beast Burger Beast Burger Beyond Meat

Beyond Meat brand makes an amazing new burger endorsed by myself and Brendan Brazier. Grill the veggie burger and slap it on a whole grain bun or lettuce wrap and add all your favorite fixings like tomato, pickles, grilled mushrooms, onion, ketchup, mustard, and vegan mayo. Done. Yum!

Lemon Potato and Edamame Salad

Kirsten Mitchell makes a great, unique vegan potato salad everyone is sure to love!

Ingredients:

  • 8 Yukon Gold potatoes diced and boiled until tender
  • 3 C cooked edamame
  • 1/2 C fresh basil julienned

      Dressing:

  • 2 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 Tbsp lemon juice
  • Rind of 1/2 a lemon
  • 2 Tbsp hemp seeds
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Whisk together the dressing ingredients and set aside. Combine the potato, edamame and basil in a large bowl. Toss in the dressing and serve.

Summer Spinach Salad

This one if from the How To Go Vegan Beginner’s Guide  and a perfect light and healthy addition to your summer vegan diet plan!

  • 8 C spinach
  • 1/4 cup sunflower Seeds
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin Seeds
  • 1 cup Cup sunflower sprouts
  • 10 strawberries, sliced
  • 1/4 cup raspberry vinaigrette 

Toss all the ingredients together and serve.

Grilled Tofu Skewers with Siracha Sauce

Skewers are a great way to grill both vegetables and tofu… easy with a great presentation and of course delicious. This recipe is from Motsbella on AllRecipes.com.

  • 3 (8 ounce) containers extra firm tofu, drained and sliced into large chunks
  • 3 zucchini, cut into large chunks
  • 3 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks
  • 30 large mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup and 2 Tbsp siracha chili garlic sauce
  • 3/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup and 2 Tbsp sesame oil
  • 3/4 cup diced onion
  • 3 jalapeno pepper, dicedtofu veggie skewers
  • ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Place tofu, zucchini, red bell pepper, and mushrooms in a bowl. Mix sriracha sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, onion, jalapeno, and pepper in a small bowl, and pour over tofu and vegetables. Toss lightly to coat. Cover, and allow to marinate at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
  2. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grate.
  3. Thread tofu and vegetables on to skewers. Grill each skewer 10 minutes, or to desired doneness. Use any remaining marinade as a dipping sauce.

Two-Layer Raw Chocolate Brownies

This recipe comes directly from the awesome OhSheGlows.com. It’s not only vegan, but also gluten-free, grain-free, no bake/raw, refined sugar-free, and soy-free! Go Angela!

Ingredients:

     For the brownies:
  • 1 cup raw walnut pieces
  • 1/2 cup hulled hemp seeds
  • 1.5 cups pitted Medjool dates* (approx. 275g)
  • 1/2 cup raw cacao powder or dutch-processed cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon pink Himalayan salt or fine grain sea salt
  • heaping 2 tablespoons raw cacao nibs
  • heaping 1/4 cup raw walnut pieces
     For the chocolate topping:
  • 1/2 cup virgin coconut oil
  • 1/2 cup raw cacao powder or dutch-processed cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or agave nectar for a raw sweetener)
  • small pinch pink Himalayan sea salt (or fine grain sea salt)
  • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. For the brownie: Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, one piece going each way to make it easy to lift out the brownies later on.
  2. In a food processor, process the walnuts into a fine crumb.
  3. Add the hemp seeds and the pitted dates and process until finely chopped and sticky. It should look like a Larabar in texture and appearance.
  4. Add the cacao powder, vanilla, and pink salt and process until thoroughly combined.
  5. Stir or pulse in the nibs and chopped walnuts until just combined.
  6. Evenly press the mixture into prepared square pan until smooth. You can roll it out with a pastry roller until smooth. Place in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
  7. For the chocolate topping: Melt the coconut oil over low heat in a medium pot. Remove from heat and whisk in the cacao powder, syrup, salt, and vanilla until combined and smooth.
  8. Remove the brownies from the freezer and pour on the chocolate topping. Spread out evenly. Carefully transfer the pan to the freezer on a flat, even surface. Chill for 20 + minutes or until the topping is firm enough to slice
  9. Run hot water over a knife for a minute or so, wipe quickly with towel, and carefully slide the knife into the brownies to slice (warming up the knife helps it slice more evenly without much cracking).
  10. Store leftovers in the freezer for a chocolate treat anytime.

Tips: You’ll want to use soft, fresh Medjool dates for this recipe to make it easier on the processor. If your dates are firm, try soaking them in water for 30-60 minutes (and then draining well) before use.

Instead of the raw chocolate topping, you can melt 3/4 cup non-dairy chocolate chips in lieu of the homemade chocolate.

Happy Birthday America!!!

24 Jun 2015
Going Vegan Tips, Vegan Nutrition
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Top 5 Simple Vegan Breakfast Ideas

vegan-breakfast ideas

For most of us, getting going in the morning is a challenge, so getting your day started off right with a simple vegan breakfast is important to include in your vegan diet plan.

I’ve come up with the top 5 easy and quick ideas to help fuel your body and kick start your metabolism in the morning:

  1. Easy Vegan Breakfast IdeasCantaloupe: Yes, simple as that! Cut the melon in half, scoop our the seeds, and using a spoon, dig in! Cantaloupe is packed with vitamins A and C (100% of the requirement for the day) among other nutrients. It’s also refreshing, hydrating, low in calories, and will give you energy immediately! 
  2. Qunioa: Quinoa is packed with complete protein and slow-release carbs to fill your belly and fuel you for hours. It’s a great food to cook a bunch of at the start of the week and reheat to make all sorts of delicious dishes throughout the week. As a breakfast cereal, you can add nut milk, cinnamon, stevia, maple syrup, cinnamon, berries, nuts and/or seeds to make a variety of different flavored breakfast bowls. Yum!
  3. Apple and Nut Butter: Slice an apple and spread almond butter, peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut/seed butter of your choice and you have a powerhouse of a breakfast on your plate. The phytonutrients in apples help regulate blood sugar and the nut/seed butter contains protein and heart-healthy fats and omega fatty acids. The combination is delicious and satisfying!
  4. Fruit Smoothie: Blend up fresh or frozen fruit with a base liquid of your choice such as coconut water or nut milk for an easy, nutrient-filled breakfast. It takes just a couple minutes to make and you can easily pour it in a to-go cup and take it with you out the door. Adding spinach is a great way to get in valuable leafy greens and the cool part is you won’t even notice a taste difference (just a change in the color of your smoothie). You can also add hemp and/or flax seeds to give it some protein and omega 3 fatty acids.
  5. Protein Shake: Looking to gain lean muscle? How about a vegan protein shake for breakfast?! Use a quality, clean, vegan protein powder such as BalanceDiet 07 Lean Protein, nut milk of choice, and optionally add banana or other fruit, dates, seeds, maca powder, cinnamon, etc. to flavor it to your liking. Drink it at home or take it with you. A perfect muscle-building vegan power breakfast!

For more vegan breakfast ideas and recipes, check out the “How To Go Vegan: A Beginner’s Guide” and to learn more about making your own smoothies check out the ” How To Make Your Own Superfood Shakes.”

Experiment. Have fun with it. Enjoy!

23 Jun 2015
Going Vegan Tips, Vegan-Related Current Events
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Veggie Education Happy Hour

vegan-happy-hour menu

vegan happy hourHelp people get educated and inspired about going vegan with a Veggie Education Happy Hour!

On Saturday, June 27th, Sexy Fit Vegan is putting on a special and unique event: a “Veggie Education Happy Hour”. The purpose is to bring people together to learn about making conscious choices for a healthier, more compassionate lifestyle, while breaking the common stereotypes about vegans (like you can’t have fun or drink a cocktail if you’re vegan)! I’m writing this blog post not only to tell you about this particular event, but also to encourage you to plan you’re own event where you live. After we’ve educated ourselves, and changed our own lives for the better, the next step is spreading the word and encouraging others to make the transition to a plant-based diet as well. What better way to do this then throwing a party! 

Check out the press release I wrote for event details and to get ideas for hosting your own event:

Sexy Fit Vegan® Ella Magers Presents Happy Hour Veggie Education Workshop

Celebrity Fitness Trainer & Vegan Diet Expert Gives People Information & Inspiration

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Miami Beach, FL

June 3, 2015

Guru of living Ella Magers shares her passion for helping people transform their lives with this unique event coming to Miami Beach on June 27th, 2015.

An 18-year vegan veteran, Ella has been a certified fitness and wellness expert for over 10 years. Her devotion to the health of people, combined with her passion for animals, her concern for the environment, and her fighter spirit lay the foundation for her brand, Sexy Fit Vegan® which she founded in 2013.

The Veggie Education Happy Hour was created in response to the growing number of people interested in learning about the benefits of a vegan diet plan and how to eat plant-based in a healthful, practical way.

“The great part about the Veggie Education Happy Hour is that it shows people how to create a smooth transition plan for people wanting to move in the direction of a plant based diet, but feel confused and overwhelmed when it comes to getting started,” says Ella.

Participants of the workshop will also enjoy fresh vegan food samples and sip on Sexy Fit Vegan’s own signature cocktails made with Casamigos tequila and Veev acai-infused vodka. They will also receive a parting goodie bags with samples from vegan-friendly, wellness-related companies such as Sisley of Paris.

Ella mentions that, “a Sexy Fit Vegan lifestyle is not about perfection, it’s about balance. Having cocktails socially for most of us in Miami is part of enjoying life, so I’m here to show people how to make those cocktails as healthy as possible by foregoing the sugar and artificial ingredients.”

Sponsors include Veev acai-infused vodka, Sushi Samba, Sobekick Gym, Plant Theory Botanical Café & Gourmet Market, Casamigos tequila, and Thrive Market.

The Veggie Education Happy Hour will be held at Sobekick Gym in South Beach (1860 West Ave. 2nd floor Miami Beach 33139) on June 27th at 2:30pm. Tickets can be purchased at www.sexyfitvegan.com/product/veggie-education-workshop

For media inquiries please contact us at [email protected]

About Ella Magers:

Ella Magers began participating in sports at the age of five and, as an avid animal lover, stopped eating meat at the age of seven. The Miami Beach resident launched SexyFitVegan.com in 2013 to support a broader population of people in their transformation to a plant-based diet and active lifestyle. The 17-year vegan-veteran is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach. She has a Masters in Social Work and is working on a Doctorate in Holistic Sports Nutrition. An authority on health and fitness, Magers was most named Personal Trainer of the Month on BodyBuilding.com in 2013. In 2014 she was named among the Top 50 Hottest Trainers in America by Shape Magazine. She has given workshops all over the world, most recently for the Sheraton in Macao China. Her passion for helping people transform their lives, combined with her compassion for animals, and her fighter spirit lays the foundation for her Sexy Fit Vegan philosophy of understanding the body from the inside out. On her website, Magers gives people the tools they will need on their journey in the form of newsletters, books, sample meal plans, product reviews, recipes, tips, and more. For more information visit https://www.sexyfitvegan.com.

Also, check out the special vegan food menu prepared by Sushi Samba for the event!


Samba-Menu-for-web

If you live in South Florida I hope to see you at this event, and if not, I hope you plan your own and keep us posted on how it goes!!!

 

13 Jun 2015
Vegan Recipes
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Salad Recipe with a Kick

Salad Recipe with a Kick

Salads don’t have to be boring… Add a kick!

As simple as it is, I just don’t seem to get tired of this easy vegan salad recipe. I am purposely not giving you exact amounts of the ingredients in order to empower you to get creative and figure out what YOU like. That way you’ll be better equipped to whip up your own awesome salad creations on a whim!

You can switch up the greens and veggies, and add plant-based proteins like edamame, tempeh, or tofu. Adjust the wasabi amount to your liking. The wakame seaweed is not only a tasty addition that goes well with wasabi, but it is also said to help burn fat, and contains some very important nutrients such as magnesium, iron, vitamins A, C, E, K, D, and Riboflavin.   

Salad with a KickWakame Seaweed for Salad Recipe

  • organic greens of your choice
  • cucumber
  • tomato
  • avocado
  • red cabbage shreds
  • carrot shreds
  • bean sprouts
  • sesame seeds
  • dried wakame seaweed
  • Pick one: organic shelled edamame, tempeh, tofu or quinoa

Dressing (3-4 servings)

  • 2 TBSP wasabi paste
  • 4 TBSP Liquid Braggs Amino Acids or Low Sodium Gluten Free Tamari
  • 4 TBSP organic, extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 TBSP champagne vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

EAT UP and ENJOY!!!

*Interested in transforming your lifestyle? Attend my life-changing Master Class HERE!

08 Jun 2015
Traveling Vegan, Vegan-Friendly Restaurants, Vegan-Related Current Events
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Vegan Traveler: New Orleans

Ella Magers, vegan traveler at UFC New Orleans

I took a birthday trip to New Orleans last weekend to see UFC Fight Night (my birthday gift from my boyfriend) and wow, as a pro at traveling on a vegan diet plan, this city is what I would call, “a great challenge!”

First off, I’m relatively easy to accommodate in that I’m happy with simple meals containing popular ingredients. I don’t need my vegan diet plan to be fancy. Give me a salad with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and some chickpeas and I’m a happy camper. I generally travel and go to restaurants, bars, and other hot spots more for the atmosphere than the food options anyway, but that’s just my personality. In New Orleans, there is no shortage of awesome venues to hear great live music, meet interesting people, have drinks, people-watch, and learn about the city’s history. But when it comes to eating, unless you like jambalaya, gumbo, po-boys, or deep fried food, you have a challenge on your hands. 

Here are some recommendations for places I enjoyed:

  • For a local sports bar vibe with great craft beer: The Bulldog
    • The hummus is home-made, FANTASTIC., and you can get it with raw veggie sticks!
    • Great selection of craft beer (The Unibroue Trois Pistoles is a strong, vegan-friendly Belgium beer that’s not served at many bars… loved it!).
    • vegan beer
  • For a local bar with a good beer selection and live jazz: d.b.a.
    • They do not serve food, but let you bring in food from elsewhere and chow there. 
    • The bartenders are experienced and super friendly.
    • d.b.a.-new-orleans
  • For a 100% vegan restaurant: Seed
    • Awesome high-quality menu with tons of variety, but all “nola style” so you still get a taste of traditional food.
    • Perfect brunch spot (pictured are the bloody marys, grits with seitan and mushroom gravy, chocolate chip pancakes, tofu scramble, and fresh squeezed orange juice).
    • An amazing, creative cocktail menu.
    • Modern, cool design.
    • Location is not great (only down side).
    • vegan-bloody-maryvegan-grits,-mushroom-gravy,-homemade-seitanvegan brunchvegan bloody mary
  • For a fun tourist bar with live music: Famous Door
    • Great cover-bands almost always on stage
    • Cheap drink prices
    • Perfect for letting loose and laughing at/with drunk tourists.
    • famous-door-new-orleans
  • To learn about history: WWII Museum 
    • ww2-museum

Then, of course, the UFC Fight night, the real reason we went, was at the Smoothie King Center, and we were incredibly lucky with the card. Almost every fight ended in a knock-out or submission! We were in the third row for these exciting fights, and through a friend, I was able to say what’s up to Bruce Buffer who is not only a talented entertainer, but also a super nice guy! I was happy the veteran Dan Henderson came away with a well-earned victory 🙂

Ella-&-bruce-buffer dan-henderson-ufc-winner ella-rob-ufc-fights

All in all, a fantastic experience. Thanks Rob for making it happen.

I’d love to hear comments about other tips and hot spots so please comment!

 

 

31 May 2015
Going Vegan Tips, Vegan Nutrition, Vegan Product Reviews
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A Vegan Protein Powder That Has It All!

Ella Magers recommends BalanceDiet Lean Vegan Protein

I’m excited to share with you one of the newest and best vegan protein powders on the market today, Lean Protein 07 from BalanceDiet.

I recommend adding this product to your vegan diet plan, especially for your post-workout snack. Let me tell you why:

  • It blends well. One of the most challenging obstacles I run into when finding a protein powder I like is the texture. Many are either gritty or chalky, even when I blend them using my Vitamix, much less trying to use a shaker bottle. This is not with case with Lean Protein 07. In fact, it blends better than any other I’ve tried.
  • It had a great, natural flavor. I’m super picky when it comes to flavor. Most protein powders don’t “do it for me.” They often leave an unpleasant taste in my mouth. Lean Protein 07 on the other hand, tastes light & pleasant. 
  • It has added nutrients such as vitamins B, A, and C, folic acid, calcium,and manganese.
  • It has added fiber that make it easily digestible (no bloating here).
  • It is 100% organic and is made with high quality ingredients. In fact, it’s manufactured in a NSA Certified (pharmaceutical grade) facility.

I like this protein powder so much I now have an affiliation that allows my readers to get 10% off using the code “SexyFitVegan”. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Ellas-Favorite-Protein-Powder-BalanceDiet 07