Shannon Schafer, B.S., N.E. Certified Nutritionist
Biography
Shannon Schafer, BS, NE
Shannon is a certified Nutrition Educator and graduate of Bauman College of Holistic Nutrition and Culinary Arts in Berkeley, California. She works individually with clients to develop nutrition programs appropriate to their needs. Helping clients find a natural path to well-being and radiance is a strong passion of hers. After overcoming her own health issues by embracing a whole foods diet, she can relate to many client’s concerns. Shannon specializes in digestive health, calming allergies, and building the immune system. She is dedicated to helping people look and feel their best!
Available by appointment only
 |
|
Natural Sweeteners
Alternatives to Refined Sugar When Baking:
Raw Honey can easily substitute refined white sugar. "Raw" means that the honey has not been heated over 117°. It has not been pasteurized, clarified, or filtered. Raw honey is loaded with enzymes that digest carbs (amalyse) and nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, and manganese.
Blue Agave Nectar, extracted from a cactus-like plant native to New Mexico is an excellent alternative. It is a syrup-like liquid a little thinner than honey. Raw agave is absorbed slowly by the body, having a lower glycemic load than most sweeteners. Diabetics can use this product in moderation when coupled with protein and fats.
Maple Syrup is tree sap rich in trace minerals, especially manganese. It also contains zinc, a necessity in immune system health. Organic is a must when choosing maple syrup to avoid formaldehyde and other additives. It can also be used in baked goods in place of refined white sugar. Grade B is often recommended for baking due to its rich maple flavor.
Stevia is a sweet powder or liquid from a South American herb 30 times as sweet as sugar. It has zero calories and is great for weight management. It does not affect blood sugar levels and is a perfect solution for diabetics. Since stevia is simply a dried herb, it does not have any of the mean side effects of other powder alternatives such as Nutrasweet, Equal, or Splenda. Stevia is by far the healthiest sugar alternative.
Comment(s)
