Jessica Alba knows a thing or two about healthy living. Not only does the business woman run her own company based on ethically minded household goods, but she stays on top of her physical health too, with an Instagrammable routine that pretty much anyone can follow. Now, she’s making it even easier to live your best life with a new webseries called “Health Hacks” with Attn.
In the two to three-minute long spots, the soon-to-be mommy of three dishes on everything from portion sizes to curing your hangovers, and TBH? Her tips are actually pretty handy! Check ‘em out below.
PORTION CONTROL
First up? Portion control. As the The Veil actress notes, American portions have gone up at least four sizes since the ‘50s, particularly with regard to fast food chains. In order to avoid unwanted extra calories, she suggest taking a cue from the Japanese, who use multiple small plates to serve their dishes, rather than one “big honkin’ American plate.”
She also offers a clue about how to fill those smaller plates in such a way that you won’t be left feeling hungry. As she notes, adding a protein (the size of your hand) and plenty of “fiber-rich veggies and leafy greens,” which should account for half your plate (and also add healthy bacteria to your gut) are a good way to start. She recommends keeping grains to a minimum, and nixing sugar where possible.
HANGOVERS
Instead of reaching for greasy food or hangover pills, which Alba, 36, says do little to help nausea or headaches caused by dehydration, she says it’s best to avoid mixing liquors, and to stick to lighter-colored drinks for minimum impact, quipping, “Simply put, the darker the drink, the harder the hangover.” (RIP, Cabernet).
If you ARE going to indulge during a night of drinking, she advises lining your stomach with carbs prior to getting your booze on rather than after, which will make you feel worse.
The following morning, she says reaching for enzyme-rich foods like asparagus and ginger, are a good idea, as are eggs, which contain nutrients that break down acetaldehyde, a main hangover-causing culprit.
Obviously, replenishing your fluids is also key, and while water is great, coconut water, which replenishes your electrolytes and detoxifies, might be even better.
EATING WHILE PREGNANT
Alba busts the popular myth that a pregnant woman is “eating for two,” but rather for herself and a teeny tiny being that only needs an extra 300-500 maximum calories per day to get all the proper nutrients he or she needs.
She also fills you in on the list of no-nos pregnant woman face during pregnancy, including raw seafood, soft cheese, unpasteurized liquids, like juice and milk, and undercooked meat.
Instead, our new health guru advises reaching for fruits and veggies (4-8 servings), grains, wild proteins (three servings), dairy products, and healthy fats (several). Mmm!
BODY LANGUAGE
While this doesn’t necessarily strike one as a “health hack” at first glance, the entrepreneur explains how things such as a strong posture, powerful smile, and uncrossed arms can improve your life overall by indicating interest in conversations you should be paying attention to, even when you’re not (like an important business meeting). She also advocates for eye contact, a leaned-in posture in the case of a love interest, and keeping accessories, like a clutch or even a drink, to your side in order to avoid appearing closed off.
Follow the company’s " target="_blank">Facebook page to keep up on the latest hacks.
Will you be trying Jessica’s helpful hacks? Tell us over @BritandCo.
(Photo via Brian Ach/Getty)
The best part about fall – other than figuring out your Halloween costume and making all the PSLs in the world – is the comfort food. Though cozy lunches and dinners are great, you can kickstart your day with even more coziness with one of these fall breakfast ideas! From sweet to savory dishes, these fall breakfast ideas not only taste like the season, but they bring unparalleled mealtime satisfaction and enough energy to help you take on the day. You’ll definitely be excited to wake up in the AM knowing that one of these tasty fall breakfast ideas are on the menu – check the recipes out for yourself below!
Here are our favorite cozy fall breakfast ideas for chilly mornings.
Figen Kokol / PEXELS
Protein Pancakes
These hearty protein pancakes provide such a nice balance between getting your daily nutrition in while also enjoying a sweet treat. Pro tip: add in some pumpkin pie spice to give the batter even more fall edge and flavor! (via Brit + Co)
Leslie Grow
Lazy Breakfast Sandwiches
These crowd-pleasing breakfast sandwiches are made possible with the magic of Hawaiian sweet rolls. First, batch-cook your eggs and sausage in a sheet pan, then get ready to build the tastiest sammies of your life. The best part is they're highly customizable – add in veggies to the eggs and play around with different cheeses until you find your perfect fall breakfast combo. (via Maria Provenzano for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Muffins
Use up some oats, warm spices, and your apple of choice (we get it – not everyone can be a Granny Smith fan), and a few other pantry staples to craft these nutritious breakfast muffins. Just toss all the ingredients in one big bowl and bake, then you've got enough on-the-go bites to last you the entire week! (via Brit + Co)
Brittany Griffin
Vegetarian Egg Cups
These healthy egg bites are reminiscent of our fave Starbucks food order, but cost way less to make right at home. You can easily swap out the veggies and choice of cheese for your own personal taste, too. These meal prep-able bites make the perfect fall breakfast since they're packed with enough protein to fuel you for the day. (via Kelly Senyei of Just a Taste for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Traditional Norwegian Pancakes
You'd be surprised at just how easy these Norwegian pancakes are to make! Just 5 ingredients, and you've got some seriously delish, satisfyingly thin, and perfectly sweet flapjacks on your plate. Top your creation with seasonal fruits like apple, cranberry, or figs to really dig into the fall vibes. (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)
Sarah Anderson
Chicken & Waffles
Does it really get better than some good ol' chicken & waffles? We think not. The crispy, breadcrumb-covered chicken tenders in this recipe do require a bit of extra work, but it's so worth it once you sink your teeth into a bite that's both sweet and savory. And syrupy – never forget the syrup! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)
Coup de Pates
Olympic Chocolate Muffins
Chocolate is yummy any time of year, which is why you need to try making these muffins that went viral over the summer Olympics. Made with a touch of instant coffee and packed with a rich dark chocolate ganache filling, these may not be the healthiest of fall breakfast ideas, but dang, are they good! (via Jordan Howlett / Brit + Co)
The Real Food Dietitians
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Breakfast Cookies
These healthy, gluten-free, and low-cost breakfast cookies will certainly set your day off on the right foot. Pumpkin puree, flax meal, pepitas, dried cranberries (for the fall-ness of it all), and coconut are all wonderful additions to the oat-packed dough. (via The Real Food Dietitians)
The Edgy Veg
Vegan Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
This dairy free, vegetarian, and vegan breakfast casserole is perfect for serving a brunch crowd with specific dietary restrictions. It's definitely super hearty since it's made with tater tots, tofu scramble, and plant-based sausage. It delivers the same bulky, breakfast-y effect as a non-vegan option would, and the best part is you'll have plenty of leftovers if you end up making it just for yourself! (via The Edgy Veg)
Clean Cuisine
Monkey Bread
Monkey bread is the childhood breakfast of our dreams, so if you're stuck on what to make the fam for a lazy Sunday brunch, let this recipe dissolve all your problems – no monkey business here! These soft and doughy bread rolls get coated in a delightful cinnamon-sugar blend before being glazed in a super-sweet cream cheese frosting. (via Clean Cuisine)
Half Baked Harvest
Cheesy Pesto Avocado Bacon Breakfast Burritos
These totally meal prep-worthy burritos combine cheese, eggs, spinach, roasted potatoes, avocado, and crispy bacon for a very satisfying fall breakfast. Your morning routine will become a thousand times easier if you make 'em ahead of time and freeze them so they keep the entire week! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Crowded Kitchen
Vegan Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash
Sweet potato and kale are an absolute power combo, but we bet you've never thought of having them for breakfast before. Don't shy away from hearty vegan fall breakfast ideas like this one – it's packed with essential vitamins and minerals, as well as protein to keep you full and satisfied all morning long! (via Crowded Kitchen)
Earthly Provisions
Matcha Overnight Oats
This overnight oats recipe is a delectable two-fer, being loaded with fiber from the oats and chia seeds, as well as caffeine from the matcha powder. So, you'll wake up to a nice boost of energy that's also great for your gut! (via Earthly Provisions)
Completely Delicious
Buttermilk Biscuits & Sausage Gravy
It doesn't get more fall than this! These buttery biscuits paired with a rich sausage gravy simply don't compare to anything you can order at a restaurant since they're made with love right at home. (via Completely Delicious)
Kathryn's Kitchen
Gingerbread Oatmeal
Your kitchen will start smelling like absolute heaven the moment you start whipping up this oatmeal on the stove top. With the help of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this hearty, fiber-rich bowl earns the tastiest fall twist. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
The First Mess
Leftover Mashed Potato Waffles
Potatoes and waffles are pretty much two of our favorite things, so combining each food into one is so genius. You'll fall in love with the crispy exterior, while the inside stays fluffy and tender. Serve with avocado, lox, or eggs to make these bites even more breakfast-worthy. (via The First Mess)
Feel Good Foodie
Shakshuka
Shakshuka – AKA runny eggs cooked in a bath of flavorful tomatoes, bell pepper, and spices – is a classic when it comes to fall breakfast ideas. There's a good amount of spicy flair and plenty of heartiness to go around. Share this one-skillet meal with friends and loved ones with a side of toasty, crispy bread for dipping delight. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Takes Two Eggs
Apple Cider Mochi Donuts
Apple cider donuts for the win! These sweet treats have a unique mochi-like texture, thanks to the addition of sweet rice flour. It makes them super tender and bouncy – you won't be able to get enough! These donuts would make an excellent addition to your Saturday breakfast plans alongside a cup of pumpkin-spiced coffee for fall time. (via Takes Two Eggs)
Butternut Bakery
Sweet Potato Muffins with Maple Pecan Butter
These muffins are 100% vegan, though they don't taste like it at all! They're also free of processed sugar, making them a healthy bite to enjoy in the AM. The maple-pecan butter totally makes this recipe. (via Butternut Bakery)
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This post has been updated.
Between the stuffing, the mashed potatoes, the rolls, and the green bean casserole, it's quite the feat when you manage to leave room for pumpkin pie after aThanksgivingfeast. Luckily, dessert options that are healthy and delicious run rampant, and you'll want to make sure to save some room for a bite of each.
From Paleo pies to dairy-free ice creams, here are 20 healthy Thanksgiving desserts to please everyone at your table, regardless of their diet.
Brit + Co
Mini Chocolate-Pecan Pies
These smaller portions of chocolate pecan pie make snacking on something sweet way healthier and more realistic than reaching for an actual slice. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Sweet Potato Parfait
You'll get a little bit of sweet and a little bit of savory with this aesthetically-pleasing Thanksgiving dessert. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Double Chocolate Banana Pumpkin Bread
Though layered with chocolate, banana bread does have bananas in it, so that means it's healthy, right? (via Brit + Co)
Delicious Knowledge
Pumpkin Donuts with Pecan Frosting
No one can ever say no to a donut, and these can even double-duty as breakfast the morning after Thanksgiving. (via Delicious Knowledge)
Half Baked Harvest
Mini Chocolate Pumpkin Seed Candy Peanut Butter Cups
Who said Thanksgiving dessert had to be pie? Snack on these homemade Reese’s cups while you play games after dinner. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Natural Girl Modern World
Pumpkin Pie Parfait with Coconut Whipped Cream
The most “difficult” part of this recipe is the 24-hour wait to dig in, but don’t worry — this layered gluten-free and vegan dessert is a great way to tap into your creative skills. (via Natural Girl Modern World)
Bakerita
Paleo Pecan Pie
You won’t be in a sugar coma after a slice (or two!) of this paleo pecan pie. Coconut oil and almond flour make this a delicious grain-free and dairy-free dessert. (via Bakerita)
Healthy Maven
Spiralized Apple Crumble
Instead of spending all your time chopping apples for a healthy Thanksgiving dessert, cut your time in half by spiralizing them for a quick and healthy apple crumble. It’s sure to be a huge hit and is *totally* Instagram-worthy. (via Healthy Maven)
Joyful Healthy Eats
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Pecan Crust
Make these a few days in advance to take the stress out of the entire Thanksgiving dinner event. (via Joyful Healthy Eats)
Gourmande in the Kitchen
Coconut Caramel Pecan Bars
These vegan and gluten-free bars look and taste fancy, but are a total breeze to make. (via Gourmande in the Kitchen)
Twin Stripe
Gluten-Free Apple Berry Crumble
Apple pie is so 2014. Instead, make a gluten-free crumble with those apples for a dessert that everyone can enjoy! (via Twin Stripe)
Amy’s Healthy Baking
Maple Cupcakes with Pumpkin Pie Frosting
No one will guess that these cupcakes are healthy and gluten-free. Serving cupcakes will keep you from having to wash extra plates and forks, too. (via Amy’s Healthy Baking)
Bakerita
Paleo Pumpkin Pie
Traditional pumpkin pie isn’t gluten-free or paleo. Swap it out for this pie that’s free of dairy and refined sugar, and healthy enough to have for breakfast the day after Thanksgiving. (via Bakerita)
Hungry Happenings
Cocoa Banana Ice Cream Turkeys
Banana ice cream is vegan and gluten-free, and won’t have you missing traditional pumpkin pie. You can have your turkey and eat it too with this adorable dessert, no matter if you’re a carnivore or not! (via Hungry Happenings)
Clean Raw Living
Vegan Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Can you believe raw, vegan cheesecake is a thing? These are perfect for a treat everyone can enjoy, no matter what kind of diet they may follow. (via Clean Raw Living)
The Real Food Dietitians
Gluten-Free Healthy Carrot Cake Bars
Loaded with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and a velvety cream cheese drizzle, this treat is all about indulgence without all the guilt. (via The Real Food Dietitians)
Clean Cuisine
Gingerbread Loaf
Deck the halls with boughs of gingerbread! This gingerbread loaf is a slice of holiday happiness that'll transport you straight to a cozy winter wonderland. (via Clean Cuisine)
Crowded Kitchen
Granola Cookies
Packed with oats, nuts, and your choice of mix-ins, they're a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to perfection. These cookies offer a delightful crunch in every bite, and you can even make them ahead of time to ease your Thanksgiving prep. (via Crowded Kitchen)
A Virtual Vegan
Dark Chocolate Hummus
Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-decadent, this dessert dip will leave your guests swooning. It's the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent, making it a delightful surprise on your Thanksgiving table. (via A Virtual Vegan)
Whole and Heavenly Oven
Browned Butter Banana Zucchini Cake
The browned butter in this healthy Thanksgiving dessert adds a rich, nutty note, while the bananas and zucchini keep it moist and sweet. This dessert is a Thanksgiving game-changer that'll have your family begging for seconds. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)
Where Is My Spoon?
Zucchini Bundt Cake
This beauty is all about turning a humble veggie into a dessert masterpiece. With its stunning spiral shape and tender crumb, it's a showstopper that'll have everyone reaching for another slice! (via Where Is My Spoon?)
Vanilla and Bean
Blueberry Galette
Bursting with plump, juicy blueberries and encased in a flaky, buttery crust, this treat is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Try serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dusted with powdered sugar! (via Vanilla and Bean)
Gastroplant
Orange and Prune Scones
These are perfect bites for breakfast or as a charming addition to your Thanksgiving brunch spread. (via Gastroplant)
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This post has been updated, featuring former reporting from Kaitlyn Ingram and Cassandra Pisone.
Thanksgiving seems centered around turkey. From the hearty stuffing to the thick ‘n’ juicy gravy, almost everything is made with or around the turkey and its drippings. So, how do vegetarians get by? Easily! Meatless lasagnas make for a great main, stuffing can be made delicious without the bird, and those perfectly cooked vegetarian sides can be hella filling. See for yourself!
Check out our list of 29 tempting vegetarian-friendly holiday recipes.
Turk'y Wellington with Mushroom Stuffing
Farm Sanctuary
With an oyster mushroom stuffing, you won't miss the turkey in this delicious and savory main meal by Farm Sanctuary Cafe Chef Gail Patak. Try the mashed potatoes and gravy recipes included too!
Vegan Meatloaf
Jessica in the Kitchen
Loaded with chickpeas and lentils, this hearty cheatloaf makes for a perfect main to go alongside all of those tasty sides.
Green Beans With Brown Butter, Crispy Shallots, and Hazelnuts
Two Peas and Their Pod
This recipe kicks your regular ol’ green beans up a few notches by adding crispy fried shallots, crunchy hazelnuts, and browned butter.
Roasted Squash, Pecan, and Pomegranate Salad
Minimalist Baker
With minimal prep, this mouthwatering squash and sweet potato salad is the perfect addition to your holiday spread with sugared pecans and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses dressing.
Kabocha Squash Lasagna
Umami Girl
Not into “tofurky?” Don’t worry, because this veggie-layered lasagna is delicious, filling, and meets all the requirements of being a Thanksgiving main with its autumnal flavors and comforting textures.
Butternut Squash and Apple Soup with Fried Sage and Halloumi
Floating Kitchen
Throughout the cooler months, a starter soup is the way to go — especially if it’s a silky butternut squash soup slightly sweetened by apples.
Veggie Pot Pies with Crispy Potatoes
Evergreen Kitchen
These vegan and GF pot pies are brimming with robust mushrooms, carrots, and wholesome greens, then topped with crispy potatoes.
Vegan Caramel Apple Galette
Farm Sanctuary
Here are four vegan desserts from Farm Sanctuary Chef Patak, including Pumpkin Bread, Pumpkin Bread pudding, Sweet Ricotta and Pine Nut Tart, and this delightful Caramel Apple Galette to satisfy all the sweet cravings.
Vegan Spiral Thanksgiving Tart
The Colorful Kitchen
Impress your fam and friends with this jaw-dropping tart filled with mashed potatoes, eggplant, carrots, cabbage, earthy rosemary, and your favorite plant-based gravy.
Caramelized Onion Gravy
This Wife Cooks
This savory gravy pairs well with a number of other Thanksgiving dishes. Its rich flavor is a show-stopper and its made with vegan butter instead of the typical kind.
Porcini Mushroom, Greens, And Forbidden Rice Gratin
Vanilla and Bean
This comfort food is so flavorful and is made with black rice, mushrooms, greens, and rice gratin. It is good for you and can also be made gluten-free!
Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
Vanilla and Bean
This moist and tender cornbread is the perfect mix of sweet and savory. It's so easy to whip up and can be stored in the freezer for future indulgence!
Tempeh Sausage-Stuffed Squash
Hummusapien
Replace the iconic stuffed turkey by packing a flavor-filled tempeh sausage stuffing into soft roasted acorn squash boats.
Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
Crowded Kitchen
These carrots are expertly coated in a sweet and sticky glaze that is seriously so delicious. The pomegranate seed garnish adds an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color.
Mashed Potatoes
Gastro Plant
These vegan mashed potatoes are oh-so-creamy and savory. They're the ultimate Thanksgiving staple!
Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole
Image via Joy Food Sunshine
This crave-worthy side tops a velvety sweet potato and apple sauce blend with crunchy pecans for a fall-inspired dish.
Curry-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
The Missing Lokness
Roasted to a golden crisp, these Brussels sprouts bring warming spices and a hint of sweetness to your plate with curry powder and dried cranberries, and it.is.awesome.
Nut Roast
Two Spoons
This meat-free dish is savory and satiating. It's made with wholesome ingredients, including mushrooms, nuts, brown rice, and fresh herbs.
Stovetop Mac and Cheese
Earthly Provisions
This stovetop mac and cheese is the ultimate Thanksgiving comfort food. It utilizes raw cashews instead of cheese, which may sound questionable, but trust me it's so good.
Butternut Squash Dal
Cook with Manali
Stock up on naan, because you’ll want to dig into this vegan and GF dal all evening with its combination of lentils, onions, tomato, cumin, and curry leaves.
Wellington
Crowded Kitchen
This delicious recipe swaps out the classic beef tenderloin for a savory mushroom filling. It's packed with flavor and equally as yummy as the original!
Cranberry Sauce
A Virtual Vegan
This vegan cranberry sauce is loaded up with flavor. It has orange juice, orange zest, rosemary, cinnamon, and a splash of booze (but that last one can be swapped out for orange juice)!
Cheesy Scalloped Hannah Sweet Potatoes
No Eggs or Ham
Thinly sliced sweet potatoes in a thick, cheesy, and sweet white pepper sauce? Sign me up!
Vegan Dinner Rolls
Veggie Society
It's not Thanksgiving without a basket of fresh, light, and fluffy biscuits. These Italian-style ones are mouth-watering and are sure to be a hit.
Simple Cornbread Sage Stuffing
The Full Helping
This recipe puts a vegan spin on a Thanksgiving fave so that *everyone* can enjoy it. Made with vegan cornbread, it’s packed with all the right flavors.
Holiday Festive Falafels
Two Spoons
These yummy falafels are a must-have for your Thanksgiving spread. They're cozy, crispy, vegan, and gluten-free.
Thanksgiving Mushrooms and Potatoes
Veggie Society
These vegan and gluten-free mushrooms and potatoes are made with chanterelles, caramelized onions, and crispy sage. They're seriously flavorful and something the entire group will enjoy.
Pecan Pie
The Edgy Veg
This easy recipe tastes just like the traditional pecan pie recipe, just with vegan ingredients that allows the entire group to dig in! (via The Edgy Veg)
Bread Pudding
Crowded Kitchen
If you're looking for a warm and comforting dessert to enjoy after your scrumptious Thanksgiving meal, this vegan bread pudding is a winner. It has dried fruit, bourbon, cinnamon, and vegan custard.
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This post has been updated.