The Flavor Balance

To enhance the palatability of the smoothie and ensure that it remains a delightful part of your daily routine, I made key modifications, primarily by increasing the quantities of oranges and bananas. It’s essential to remember that your smoothie should be enjoyable to your taste buds. If it’s not to your liking, you may be discouraged from continuing this healthy habit and miss out on its incredible benefits.

So, as you embark on your smoothie-making journey, keep in mind the importance of striking the right flavor balance to ensure that each sip is a pleasurable and transformative experience. Watch the video, learn the ropes, and tailor your smoothie to your unique palate for a journey to wellness that you’ll eagerly embrace.

Elixir Of Life Smoothie Revision 3 (2015-17)

♦ 8 oz. Plant-Based Milk: Soy, Coconut, Cashew.
♦ 1tbsp Chia Seeds or Hemp Hearts (Omega 3 & Fiber) Soak in milk for 5-10 minutes before blending.
♦ ½ tsp Organic Turmeric Powder
♦ 1 large carrot
♦ 2 bananas w/peel
♦ 1 inch of Ginger
♦ ⅓ Sweet Potato
♦ 2 cups of organic Kale & Spinach
♦ ½ Apple
♦ 1 Orange with partial peel
♦ ½ Avocado with seed (chopped up)
♦ ⅓ Large beet with greens (color)
♦ 1 cup Raspberry, blueberries
& Strawberries.

 Unlocking Health and Wellness: The Power of Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting is a remarkable tool that has the potential to not only heal your digestive system and gut but also maintain a consistent waistline. Below, I’ll share how I stumbled upon intermittent fasting and its incredible impact on my life.

The Journey into Intermittent Fasting

I’ve found intermittent fasting to be truly extraordinary. Each day, I kickstart my routine by enjoying my Elixir of Life Smoothie between 1-3 PM, a timing that varies depending on how my body feels. Some mornings, I rise at 6 AM, allowing me to go about my day for 7-8 hours before consuming my first meal. This routine has empowered me to undertake impressive feats, such as embarking an intense 30+ mile bike rides before indulging in my smoothie. These achievements might raise eyebrows among traditional nutritional organizations, but they work wonders for me. You can explore numerous benefits of intermittent fasting by clicking the image provided.

The Wonder of Water

Water is undeniably one of the keys to health, a fact widely acknowledged but often underutilized. In 2013, during a hike with one of my vegan friends, I was introduced to the wonders of this essential potion. At that time, I had endured over a decade of excruciating chronic back problems. I was on a regimen of Advil, prescribed by my doctor, receiving bi-weekly massages, and still struggling to find relief after long hours at my office desk. However, water became my life-changing solution. Within weeks, I no longer required Advil, and it wasn’t long before I realized that 90% of my chronic back pain was attributable to chronic dehydration.

The message here is clear: EVERYONE MUST DRINK A MINIMUM OF 64oz of water daily. Despite contrary claims, I am living proof of its necessity. It’s crucial to remember that our society, unfortunately, thrives on sickness, with corporations often profiting from people’s health problems.

Water also plays a pivotal role in aiding morning digestion.

Many mistake their morning hunger for what it truly is – severe dehydration after 8 hours of sleep. This makes sense when you consider that our bodies continue to function throughout the night, especially our brains. Water serves as a coolant for our brains and other vital organs. During the night, our bodies release a substantial amount of water, and our bodies instinctively crave it. We often misinterpret this craving as hunger, as most foods contain some water content.

After practicing intermittent fasting with water as my morning ritual since 2015, I can confidently assert that my body thrives each morning on pure water or tea.

Embracing Tea as an Alternative

In 2016, I made a shift from drinking plain water to enjoying a daily 32oz mug of tea each morning. This change added variety to my routine, as water can sometimes become monotonous. I opted for herbal tea, as I’m not particularly fond of caffeine. When you prioritize a balanced diet and quality sleep, your energy levels naturally soar, rendering caffeine unnecessary.

Dinner: A Culinary Freedom

 Thanks to my dietary choices and intermittent fasting, I have the luxury of indulging in whatever culinary delights my heart desires for dinner each evening.

Part I

Going Veggie | 1992-Current

My Journey Towards a Plant-Based Lifestyle: A Tale from 1992

Around 1992, my journey toward a plant-based lifestyle began with a series of heartfelt decisions. It all started with my decision to abstain from consuming certain animals, a choice driven by personal connections and stories.

My first step was to bid farewell to sea animals and pigs. The moment of clarity that led me to eliminate pigs from my diet was when my mom explained what baby back ribs were. It was a revelation that struck me deeply; I couldn’t fathom the idea of eating baby pigs. These ribs had been one of my favorite treats at the annual Spokane Interstate Fair. Little did I know back then that my true love was for the delectable BBQ sauce that accompanied them, but at the time, I was blissfully unaware. So, one by one, I decided to give up consuming animals that held a personal connection.

In the summer of 1995, just before I entered the 7th grade, I made a seemingly random decision. As my mom and I indulged in our regular Whoppers at a drive-through, I matter-of-factly declared that this would be my last one, and it indeed was.

As my 7th-grade year began, we were assigned a research report, and I chose the topic of factory farming. Back then, information was not as readily available as it is today, with the internet still in its infancy. I scoured my school library and the Spokane public library to gather insights. What I discovered during my research was both painful and shocking. When I presented my findings to the class, I revealed that I had given up my final animal, chicken.

In 1995, plant-based food options were relatively scarce, so my diet primarily consisted of three staples: mac and cheese, pizza, and various pasta dishes generously smothered in extra cheese. I relied heavily on cheese as my source of protein… and saturated fat. Although I don’t have a photograph, I can vividly recall my mother stocking up on 2lb blocks of cheese, and I consumed close to 2lbs of cheese per week for the next 18 years of my life, which, in hindsight, wasn’t the healthiest choice.

Part II

Giving Up My Addiction To Dairy | 2013-Current

Embracing Veganism: A Transformational Journey

After 18 years of contentedly leading a vegetarian lifestyle, the universe bestowed upon me a partner who introduced me to a profound shift. It all began with her decision to watch the first 20 minutes of a documentary called Earthlings. As she sat in the other room, tears streaming down her face, I felt the intensity of her emotions, and it was almost too much to bear. Many years ago, I had played a role in helping her transition to a vegetarian diet, and now, she had led me on the path to becoming vegan.

Once my eyes were opened to the harsh realities of the dairy industry, there was no turning back. I had been aware that veal was a byproduct of this industry, but I had never delved deeply into the subject until that fateful day in April 2013. At the time, my daily ritual included enjoying muesli with yogurt, and the thought of giving it up seemed unfathomable. So, we made a trip to Fred Meyer’s (Kroger’s) Grocery Store, where I purchased my first container of Silk Vegan Yogurt. The anticipation and excitement were palpable; I couldn’t wait to try it. In fact, I couldn’t even wait until I got home. The moment I paid for it, I eagerly opened the yogurt and used the lid as a makeshift spoon. To my astonishment, it tasted exactly the same! I was in disbelief. There was virtually no discernible difference between the dairy yogurt I had consumed that morning and this vegan alternative. We also picked up some Daiya branded cheese and various other plant-based products to sample. To my delight, everything either tasted great or was perfectly acceptable.

Since that pivotal year of 2013, the landscape of plant-based dairy alternatives has evolved significantly. Today, there are countless options available, making it easier than ever to embrace a vegan lifestyle. I hold immense respect for the individuals who made the courageous choice to go vegan back in the 1980s and earlier, such as Moby. Their commitment and foresight are truly remarkable and continue to inspire us all.

Removing Dairy Healed My Asthma, Pet and Seasonal Allergies

A Life Transformed: Overcoming Asthma and Embracing Allergen-Free Living
A reality I could never have imagined was living without asthma. My encounter with asthma began at the tender age of two. I vividly recall that moment: I was sitting at the dining table with my father, enjoying a bowl of oatmeal when, all of a sudden, my ability to breathe was taken away. It was a terrifying experience that prompted an urgent rush to the hospital. I spent a week in a breathing chamber, my tiny lungs struggling to function properly. What I wouldn’t realize until many years later was that the oatmeal was prepared with cow’s milk, a revelation that would significantly impact my life.

For the next three decades, I faced relentless struggles whenever I engaged in physical activities like running. Catching my breath was a futile endeavor, and I often found myself gasping for air. My mother, in her unwavering support for my well-being, encouraged me to be active. As a result, I participated in soccer until the age of 12, yet every practice and game proved to be a grueling ordeal. My throat and lungs were perpetually plagued by pain.

So, why does dairy trigger asthma? Dairy is known to be one of the inflammatory foods in our diet, notorious for generating excessive mucus in the throat and lungs, leading to that burning sensation and breathing difficulties. However, since bidding farewell to dairy, I can scarcely recall a single instance of needing my inhaler. It now sits untouched in my dresser drawer.

My life took an extraordinary turn in the spring of 2013 when I made the monumental decision to eliminate dairy from my diet. It was a significant change because, as I mentioned earlier, I consumed copious amounts of dairy, especially in the form of cheese. About two months into my vegan journey, I began to notice the transformative effects. No longer was I left breathless during physical activity. However, the most remarkable change was that, for the first time in my life, I was no longer allergic to my beloved furry companions.

When I was born, we had to part with one of our two cats because my severe allergies made it impossible for me to coexist with her. This challenge persisted throughout my life, preventing me from getting too close to animals. Even visits to the humane society to look at potential new pets would trigger a near-instantaneous closure of my airways, forcing me to retreat to the car and wait while my mother continued inside. Despite growing up in a household with 2-3 cats at a time, each introduction of a new feline family member would entail 2-3 weeks of asthma struggles before my body adjusted to the new allergens. I still couldn’t get too close or pet them, and they weren’t allowed in my bedroom at night.

Around two months after removing dairy from my diet, the unimaginable happened: my cats were able to sleep in my bedroom without triggering any allergic reactions. They now curl up on my pillow, right by my face, every night.

While I’ve conquered major health issues through dietary changes, I still have minor allergies to dust, certain paints, chemicals, and sage burning. These issues are a fraction of what I once faced.

Reflecting on this journey, I wonder how different my life might have been if I’d known these solutions earlier. Perhaps I’d have pursued a career in professional sports. It’s worth noting that not everyone who gives up dairy will experience the same results. Gosh, I wish everyone did experience it this way. While some may find relief from allergies and asthma, others may not. Nevertheless, I encourage you to explore the possibility of giving up dairy to see if it offers you any health benefits. It’s a step toward better well-being that’s certainly worth considering and is a huge help to the planet. Friends don’t let friends drink dairy! Humans are not baby cows.

Part III

Intermittent Fasting and other tools

Before the year 2014, my weight typically fluctuated between 185 and 205 pounds, varying with the seasons. While I might have appeared average compared to the typical American following the Standard American Diet (SAD), I knew deep down that I wasn’t truly healthy.

My journey towards better health started early when I became a vegetarian at the age of 12. However, for over two decades, I primarily subsisted on a diet heavily reliant on processed plant-based foods.

Then, approximately two months before the release of the documentary “Fed Up,” I conducted a simple dietary experiment that involved making two significant changes to my eating habits. After viewing the film, I became even more committed to reducing my consumption of processed sugar. Let me share a bit more about my dietary history and how it has shaped the person I am today.

Backstory: Pre-Smoothie Breakfast

Breaking Free from Breakfast Norms

Like many others in our society, I had been influenced by what I now recognize as a form of dietary brainwashing. I firmly believed that the key to being healthy was consuming a substantial breakfast shortly after waking up. For as long as I can remember, my daily breakfast consisted of 4-5 cups of oatmeal generously sprinkled with raisins—a tradition dating back to my childhood. Occasionally, I’d mix things up with a whole wheat waffle topped with homemade applesauce or a bowl of Cheerios. In the final two years before transitioning to my smoothie-based diet, I had switched to Bob’s Red Mill Muesli paired with non-dairy yogurt. While many would deem my breakfast choices exceptionally nutritious, little did I know that there was a world of healthful possibilities waiting to be explored.

Phase 1: Adjusting my eating schedule(Intermittent Fasting) & Cutting out Sweets/Junk (Massive Weight Loss) | 2014

In 2014, I reached a turning point in my life. I found myself tipping the scales at 205 pounds, a weight I had never experienced before, and I felt profoundly uncomfortable in my own skin. I began to ponder if there were simple adjustments I could make to my diet without resorting to traditional diets or rigorous exercise routines. My goal was to shed excess weight without drastic measures, and I approached this with curiosity and an open mind.

My initial step was to implement a “no food after 8pm” rule. I had always been a late-night snacker, often indulging in treats like a half-pint of vegan ice cream or a row of Newman O’s (a somewhat healthier alternative to Oreos). Over the course of the first two months, I gradually lost about 1-2 pounds of fat each week through this simple adjustment, and something remarkable occurred—my intense cravings started to fade away.

Simultaneously, I began to shift my breakfast time progressively later each day. I initially started eating around 9am while working my old corporate job. I’d rush to the office after waking up at approximately 8:20am, fitting in a quick shower before heading out. During this phase, I still needed a solid 8.5-9 hours of sleep, a requirement that had remained constant throughout my life. Going vegan did provide some improvement, but I was dealing with significant stress both at home, living with an alcoholic, and at my corporate job. Sleep had always been my favorite form of self-care, and I had learned from an early age never to compromise on it—an invaluable lesson.

Over the next three months, I continued pushing my breakfast time back until I was eating around 1pm each day. Alongside this adjustment, I incorporated a morning ritual of drinking 32oz of water infused with apple cider vinegar before starting my day. It became the very first thing I did when I arrived at the office. I would refill my 32oz mason jar and keep it at my desk, ensuring that I met my daily water intake goals. I had discovered the incredible benefits of proper hydration a year prior to embarking on this dietary journey.

After consistently following these simple steps for 4-5 months, I had narrowed my eating window to 7 hours, from 1pm to 8pm. Remarkably, I had shed over 35 pounds of body fat and reached a weight of approximately 167 pounds. A year later, I reached my all-time low of 161 pounds, although a few emotional events had taken a toll on me around that time. About 3 months into my journey, I learned about intermittent fasting and its significant health benefits, which stood in stark contrast to the beliefs I had held throughout my life. Previously, I had staunchly advocated for breakfast and criticized those who skipped it, believing it was detrimental to one’s health—a perspective I have since revised.

Phase 2: Smoothies | 2015 – Current

Around January of 2015, I began experimenting with smoothies on weekends. At this point, my smoothie creations were quite simple, reflecting how most people initially approach and abandon the concept of “smoothies.” I blended together about 1-2 cups of berries, plant-based milk, one or two bananas, and a touch of protein powder (I still had a slight protein obsession, haha). Occasionally, I’d throw in a couple of leafy greens, but it wasn’t yet a regular occurrence.

By July of 2015, I had transformed these basic smoothies into something more complex, incorporating many of the ingredients that have become staples in my current smoothie repertoire, such as turmeric, ginger, and avocado.

However, it was a significant moment on July 4th, 2015, when I made the decision to start consuming smoothies every single day. Sadly, on July 5th, I experienced a breakup—a painful and messy one, as they tend to be. Facing the aftermath, I decided on the morning of July 6th that I needed to prioritize my health and nutrition to endure the challenges ahead. Over the next four months, I not only navigated the emotional turmoil of the breakup but also faced worsening treatment from my ex-employer, culminating in my November dismissal for the sole reason of being vegan. It turns out my intuition had guided me toward this daily smoothie practice long before I even realized its importance.

Healing My Gut and Beyond | 2016 – Current

In the year following my introduction to the Elixir of Life smoothie, my health underwent remarkable improvements. I found that I required significantly less sleep than before, with an average of about 7 hours now sufficing. I continued to enjoy robust health, rarely falling ill, and, notably, overcame the digestive issues associated with wheat and gluten—details can be found here.

All in all, I stumbled upon what I believe is akin to the fountain of youth—a potent source of raw energy. I can’t fathom a day without my smoothie, and it amuses me that many people start their mornings and midday meals with hearty feasts, only to spend the subsequent hours with their digestive systems commandeering their brain’s resources, leaving insufficient blood flow for regular cognitive functions. Few are aware that after consuming a heavy meal, up to 60% of the body’s blood rushes to the digestive system to facilitate processing. This explains the sluggishness and difficulty in thinking clearly after indulging in a rich, fatty meal. Personally, I detest that post-heavy-meal sensation, which makes me feel almost “stupid drunk,” impairing the ease and efficiency of tasks that typically come naturally.

More Flexible Eating i.e. Falling Back into Sugar Addiction | 2016-17

One of the most surprising revelations came about six months into my daily smoothie journey—I could indulge in treats at night without my waistline paying the price. For over two years, I’ve regularly enjoyed whatever I want for dinner and beyond, all while maintaining a stable weight ranging between 172 and 176 pounds. It feels as though I’ve stumbled upon the magic bullet to enjoying both health and indulgent treats.

My evenings often feature late-night delights like ice cream, cookies, and other delectable snacks before bed. However, there’s a crucial caveat: I must adhere to my regimen for this to work seamlessly. I make a concerted effort to avoid overeating. With my daily intake comprising snacks (300-500 calories), dinner (500-800 calories), and my smoothie (900-1000 calories), I’m still consuming a sensible diet overall.

What I’ve discovered is that I experience no cravings for junk food until after dinner. Part of this is a result of teaching myself not to indulge in junk until after I’ve had my evening meal. While it does require self-discipline, the benefits of my eating approach are undeniably remarkable.

I must stress a vital point: I DO NOT RECOMMEND REINTRODUCING “JUNK FOOD” INTO YOUR DIET UNTIL YOU HAVE MET YOUR IDEAL WEIGHT GOALS AND MAINTAINED THEM FOR AT LEAST 6 MONTHS. This step is crucial as it allows you to retrain yourself in the art of sensible eating. In my case, having carried a fair amount of excess fat on my body, I was rarely hungry at night. However, once I shed that weight, my body naturally sought a slightly higher calorie intake.

Moreover, I strongly advise against consuming highly processed junk. Opt for homemade cookies and snacks instead of store-bought processed alternatives. Your body will thank you, and by healing your gut, you’ll be better equipped to resist the allure of junk food without it clinging to your system.

Cutting Out Sweets Again | February 2018 – April 2018

Less Restrictive Eating – April 2018 – Christmas 2019

After several months without sugar, I decided to stop actively restricting it from my diet. While I no longer seek out sugary treats, I also don’t obsess over avoiding them. I’ve come to understand that my practice of refraining from food after 8 pm and shortening my non-fasting window contributes to weight loss. Over the past year, my weight has remained steady in the 180-185lb range, which feels like a healthy and balanced weight for my current level of muscle mass.

Part IV
Adding Practices to daily life

Healing Mind and Body Time – Christmas 2019 – June 2020

Around Christmas, I experienced a profound shift in my life. Dealing with heartbreak combined with profound betrayal, the universe seemed to guide me towards changes I hadn’t consciously initiated. On January 5th 2020, I stepped onto the scale and was astonished to find that I had shed 10 pounds since Christmas, bringing my weight down to 176, a place I hadn’t been in for quite some time. I had grown accustomed to hovering in the 180s and indulging in more unhealthy food than my body needed.

This miraculous weight loss provided me with newfound inspiration to elevate my fitness journey and finally attain the body I’d desired since childhood. I had resumed my workouts in mid-December, and now I committed myself to hitting the gym every other day, embarking on a profound transformation of my physique. By mid-February, I had lost a total of 15 pounds, reaching 171 pounds, and my body was undergoing a remarkable redefinition.

In addition to these bi-daily workouts, I incorporated various practices into my life:

• Commencing breakfast between 4-6 pm and concluding by 10 pm each night, resulting in an 18-20 hour daily fast that proved highly effective for shedding excess body weight.
• Devoting over 2 hours daily to meditation, with two group meditation sessions per week.
• Engaging in 2 yoga sessions or other group workouts.
• Organizing and maintaining my entire house. This transformation was sparked by a simple comment from someone I was seeing about messy spices on my counter. It led to a two-week spree of cleaning and organizing every room in my house. A significant shift in my life was that I no longer procrastinate tasks, avoiding the habit of leaving things to be done later. I highly recommend adopting this practice, as it makes life much more manageable and enjoyable.
• Rollerblading at local rinks 1-2 times a week.
• Taking daily Vitamin D3, which has effectively alleviated my normal seasonal depression. Here is the brand I have used since 2019.
• Reading—particularly “The Untethered Soul,” which I’ve read five times in the past few months, along with “The Empath’s Survival Guide” and several other books. Reading serves as a meditative practice that enriches my mind.

In summary, my primary focus is on holistic healing and finding inner balance. My dietary improvements, coupled with these newfound practices, are harmonizing my mind, spirit, and body. Surprisingly, I never set out with intentions for any of these changes; rather, each of them serendipitously found its way into my life, and I embraced each challenge wholeheartedly.

Part V
Adding Practices to daily life

Healing Mind and Body Time – June 2020 – Current

Since that winter of 2019, life has thrown me some tough challenges. I continue to rely on the tools I’ve mentioned here, although my adherence to practices beyond daily smoothies has become somewhat sporadic, which I wish were not the case. I’m doing my best to stay committed, but I’m not perfect. I recognize the value of these practices, yet maintaining them during difficult times can be quite a struggle.

Overcoming Childhood Eating Disorders

From a young age, I grappled with eating disorders. I consider myself fortunate to have had various tools at my disposal, which prevented my body from reaching obesity levels. Without these tools, my compulsive eating could have easily resulted in a significantly higher weight. I’ve come to realize that altering my diet isn’t the sole factor in maintaining a healthy body.

Since 2015, I’ve incorporated regular therapy sessions, delving into the complex connection between my eating compulsions, past traumas, and the impact on my waistline. I’ve come to believe that achieving a flat stomach is nearly impossible until one addresses the underlying traumas that trigger behaviors leading to eating disorders. While I still aspire to attain a flat stomach, I recognize that my journey is ongoing.

I arrived at this understanding through experiences where I maintained a perfect diet, avoiding junk food, yet my weight remained unchanged. I consistently hit a weight plateau at 182 lbs for several years, unable to break below it. My hypothesis is that my body has been overwhelmed by traumatic events over the past decade, prompting it to hold onto these stubborn layers of fat as a self-protection mechanism.

Good luck on your journey. I am here if you ever need any support!

Joshua@plantpoweredprophet.com