Meadow Market Matters: 8

Meadow Market Matters: Volume 8

Autumn is all around us

While sitting here in front of my laptop, pondering about what to share in this month’s newsletter, I am very much aware of the changing season. We’ve just had our first proper rain for the year and it holds much promise for the rainy season ahead.

Autumn is definitely my favourite time of year, but it wasn’t always. As a child I used to love spring. Now I prefer the slightly warmer temperatures compared to early spring, the windstill days and the
almost romantic inspiration to prep for cozy days.

In this newsletter I hope to inspire you to start thinking about prepping for the coming winter too.

1. A strong immune system is key

I strongly believe that we were created with immune systems that are able to fight off any infection. With our fast-paced, modern lifestyles, though, we tend to place an immense burden on our bodies so that, often - and especially at times of seasonal change – the load becomes too much and our immune systems struggle. This is when we might fall ill. Illness never comes at a good time!

I feel so fortunate that my family is really very healthy. We haven’t needed a doctor in years and I can’t remember when last we took
antibiotics. We love to boost our immunity with things that nature supplies and I want to encourage you to let nature work for you too! Organic, unadulterated herbs and spices are, in my opinion, the most potent substances when it comes to supporting and stimulating the immune system due to their high concentration of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds, especially with consistent use. Be sure to add a lot of it when preparing meals! Why not add ceylon cinnamon to your morning oats; turmeric to any hot drink, casserole or pasta dish; cayenne pepper to a creamy soup and garlic to just about anything?

At Meadow Market we stock a whole range of organic
products that support the immune system. Head over to Meadow Market to have a look or browse on the website for your own favourite herbs and spices.

2. Delicious breakfast or snack idea

I’m sharing here a breakfast recipe I created for my husband, which he now enjoys almost every morning. It is high in protein, low in carbs and packed with a good amount of heart-healthy fats. Admittedly, he has perfected the recipe, and I love to help myself to a spoonful from his bowl when I get half a chance! Adjust the amounts to your liking and have it any time of the day.

Ingredients

• 200 g Greek or natural yogurt
• 1 heaped tablespoon protein powder of choice*
• 1 heaped tablespoon desiccated coconut 
• 2 tablespoons granola OR mixed nuts
• 1 heaped teaspoon sunflower seeds
• 1 heaped teaspoon pumpkin seeds
• 1 heaped teaspoon nut butter (cashew OR almond OR peanut)

*Our current favourites are Vanilla-flavoured whey powder OR Vanilla chai-flavoured whey with collagen.

Directions

• Mix protein powder and desiccated coconut into the yogurt.
• Add all seeds and nuts/muesli to the bowl (either mix it in or leave it on top, whatever your preference is).
• Drizzle with nut butter.
• Enjoy!

Optional: For more sweetness, add a drizzle of raw honey and/or a teaspoon goji berries

3. New product: Raw Apple Cider Vinegar

Meadow Market’s latest addition is Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, produced from apples grown in the Elgin Valley, Western Cape. The apples undergo a traditional natural fermentation process in order to preserve all inherent nutrients and for maximum flavour. The resulting vinegar is kept raw, unpasteurised and unfiltered, containing the “mother”. It is currently packaged in plastic bottles – take your pick of 1 litre or 5 litres.

Not sure what ACV is used for? Read up about some of the benefits and uses of ACV. I’ve been using a home-made facial
toner consisting of ACV and purified water for many years – you’ll find the recipe on our website.

That’s all for April...

Until next time,

The Meadow Market Team