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How to Make a Dual-Extraction Mushroom Tincture

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How to Make a Dual-Extraction Mushroom Tincture


Medicinal mushroom products have increased in popularity over the past decade. From mushroom coffee to mushroom chocolate, there are plenty of options. A dual-extraction mushroom tincture is another great way to get the health benefits of mushrooms!

Mushroom tinctures are a convenient way to get your daily functional mushrooms in. It’s easy to add a dropperful to smoothies, coffee, and other foods. Certain medicinal mushrooms are harder to digest in their pure powder form, so an extraction helps make them more bioavailable.

Tinctures are a popular way to extract nutrients and flavors from herbs. These use alcohol to pull the beneficial constituents out of the plant and into the liquid. Common examples are vanilla extract or an herbal tincture. You can also use glycerin (glycerites) or vinegar (herbal vinegars) to extract compounds, but these aren’t technically tinctures.

Another way to extract is with plain old water! Things like peppermint tea, marshmallow root infusion, and elderberry decoction (to make elderberry syrup) all use water as the menstruum. These have a much shorter shelf-life compared to alcohol tinctures. Water also extracts different nutrients than alcohol does.

A dual extraction combines both a water extract and an alcohol extract of the same plant together. Usually, you would do one or the other, but for mushrooms, there are benefits to doing a double extraction. The water extracts the beta-glucans and polysaccharides, while alcohol pulls out triterpenes.

How to Make a Mushroom Tincture

There are plenty of different opinions on the best way to make a mushroom blend tincture. There isn’t a ton of evidence behind the different methods, it’s more preference. After researching the different variations, this is the mushroom extract method I’ve settled on.

You start by putting finely chopped or powdered dry mushrooms into a clean jar. If the pieces are too large they won’t extract as well. And fresh, wet mushrooms are more likely to spoil. I used a mushroom powder, but you can use foraged and dried mushrooms too.

These mushrooms steep in alcohol for 2-4 weeks. After straining, put the alcohol in a clean jar and reserve the mushrooms. Some people use the same mushrooms for the water extraction, while others use new ones.

Next, you’ll simmer the mushrooms in water for a bit and then strain them out. Lastly, the alcohol and water extracts are combined.

Which Mushrooms to Use for a Mushroom Tincture

There are plenty of options here. You can use just one type of mushroom or a blend of several. Certain mushrooms like shiitake mushrooms and maitake taste good in soups and stir-fries. Other mushrooms are more bitter and work best mixed into things or as a tincture. Many of them are also nootropics that help the brain.

There’s also some debate on which part of the mushroom is best. The fruiting body is the part of the mushroom that’s above ground. Mycelium is the underground part. Research shows some benefits of mycelium in certain mushrooms, but much of the time it’s not as potent.

Here are a few different options and a brief overview of their health benefits!

  • Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) – Supports the immune system and cognitive function. Also high in antioxidants, improves memory and mood, and reduces inflammation.
  • Reishi (Ganoderma) – Reishi mushroom has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It helps modulate the immune system, increases healing time, and may have a protective effect against cancer. It’s an adaptogen that helps protect the heart, liver, brain, and more.
  • Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) – Very high in nutrients, supports the immune system and improves metabolism, strength, and endurance.
  • Turkey tail (Trametes versicolor) – Supports the immune system, helps with gut health, has antioxidants, and helps reduce inflammation.
  • Cordyceps – Boosts energy and athletic performance and has anti-aging and immune-boosting properties. They also support healthy blood sugar balance and protect the liver and heart.

Even More Ways to Get Medicinal Mushrooms

If you don’t want to make your own mushroom tincture several places offer high-quality ones. Four Sigmatic is my favorite place to get mushroom supplements if you want a pill or powder form. Plus they make great coffee and cocoa!

How to Make a Dual-Extraction Mushroom Tincture

This recipe uses both water and alcohol for a more powerful mushroom tincture. Use any dried medicinal mushroom you want or a blend of several kinds!

Prep Time5 minutes

Active Time2 hours

Infusing Time14 days

Total Time14 days 2 hours 5 minutes

Yield: 16 ounces

Author: Katie Wells

  • ¾ cup mushroom powder (or finely chopped mushrooms)
  • 1 and ¼ cups 190 proof alcohol
  • 4 cups filtered or distilled water (or more)

  • Place the mushrooms in the glass jar and pour alcohol over the top. Put the lid on the jar.

  • Let the mixture steep for 2-4 weeks, shaking daily.

  • Strain the mushroom powder from the alcohol with a cheesecloth and set both aside. Pour the infused alcohol into a clean glass jar and put the mushrooms into a clean pot.

  • Add the water to the pot and heat the mixture on the stove. Simmer gently for 2-4 hours, adding more water if necessary to prevent burning. You want the liquid to reduce by about half.

  • Strain the mushrooms from the water and compost.

  • You want to have equal parts of alcohol and water extractions. So if you ended up with 1 cup of alcohol tincture, then you’ll use 1 cup of water infusion. Add extra water or simmer the water until it’s the same amount as the alcohol mixture.

  • Add the water mixture to a clean mason jar.

  • Next, slowly add the alcohol mixture while stirring. This helps prevent the polysaccharides from separating out of the solution too much.

  • Pour some of the mushroom tincture into a glass dropper bottle to use and refill with the mason jar as needed.

  • Store your mushroom extract in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and sunlight.
  • Take a dropperful in liquid once a day or as desired. 
  • If your mushrooms are in larger chunks, then put them and the alcohol in the blender after they’ve soaked for a few hours. This is an easier way to grind them up. Certain mushrooms, like chaga, are really hard and may not blend well. 

Do you try to make medicinal mushrooms a part of your daily routine? What are your favorite ways to use them?



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Novavax Granted Authorization in United Kingdom for its COVID-19 Vaccine

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Novavax Granted Authorization in United Kingdom for its COVID-19 Vaccine


Last week, the United Kingdom’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) announced it has granted marketing authorization for Novavax’s NVX-CoV2601 (Nuvaxovid) XBB15 COVID-19 vaccine for prevention of COVID-19 in individuals aged 12 years and older.1

“Today’s MHRA authorization is recognition of the role our vaccine can have in protecting the British public against COVID-19 this year,” Novavax CEO John C. Jacobs, said in a statement last week. “We are in ongoing conversations with additional UK partners to identify potential opportunities to offer our protein-based non-mRNA COVID-19 vaccine to all eligible individuals who want one. We believe this is critical to supporting long-term, broad uptake of a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine in the UK.”1

According to the company, this authorization was based on non-clinical data showing the updated COVID-19 vaccine induced functional immune responses for XBB15, XBB116 and XBB23 variants. Additional non-clinical data demonstrated the vaccine induced neutralizing antibody responses to subvariants JN1—which is the dominant strain in the United States—BA286, EG51, FL151 and XBB1166 as well as CD4+ polyfunctional cellular (T-cell) responses against EG51 and XBB1166. These data indicate Novavax’s vaccine can stimulate both arms of the immune system and induce a broad response against circulating variants.1

Back in late November, the WHO granted Novavax an emergency use listing (EUL) for the same vaccine. The EUL was also based on non-clinical data. 2

What You Need to Know

Novavax’s COVID-19 vaccine, NVX-CoV2601 (Nuvaxovid), is distinct from many other COVID-19 vaccines as it does not utilize the mRNA platform.

The vaccine incorporates a patented saponin-based Matrix-M adjuvant. The Matrix-M adjuvant enhances both the cellular and humoral arms of the immune system.

The NVX-CoV2601 vaccine has practical advantages in terms of storage and shelf life. It can be stored at temperatures between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, making distribution and administration more straightforward.

The Vaccine’s Novelty

This vaccine does not use the m-RNA technology, but the company’s patented saponin-based Matrix-M adjuvant platform. The vaccine can be stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and has a 12-month shelf life, simplifying delivery, decreasing the carbon footprint and reducing wastage. And as previously mentioned, it has demonstrated efficacy against multiple variants. 2

Contagion spoke to Seth Toback, MD, senior vice president, Medical Affairs, Novavax, at last fall’s IDWeek about the novelty of the vaccine.

“Our vaccine is a protein based vaccine; it’s really unique in that it uses the entire full length spike protein. It takes that spike protein and arranges it as a three-dimensional shape, which puts it in a very similar shape to the natural wild type SARS-CoV-2,” said Toback. “So when we make antibodies towards that vaccine, the antibodies are more accurately reflecting the wild type virus and gives us a neutralization response. We then take that fully-spiked protein and we add it to our novel adjuvant, which is called matrix M…it enhances both the cellular and humoral arms of the immune system.”2

References

1. Novavax’s Updated COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized in the United Kingdom. Novavax press release. January 24, 2024. Accessed January 31, 2024. https://ir.novavax.com/press-releases/Novavaxs-Updated-COVID-19-Vaccine-Authorized-in-the-United-Kingdom

2. Parkinson J. Novavax’s Updated COVID-19 Vaccine is Granted EUL by WHO. ContagionLive. December 2, 2023. Accessed January 31, 2024 Novavax’s Updated COVID-19 Vaccine is Granted EUL by WHO. https://ir.novavax.com/press-releases/Novavaxs-Updated-COVID-19-Vaccine-Authorized-in-the-United-Kingdom



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Chicken and Noodles in the Slow Cooker

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Chicken and Noodles in the Slow Cooker


This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

If you’re wondering what to add to the dinner lineup this week, this creamy slow cooker chicken and noodles is the answer! Everything gets cooked in the crockpot (even the noodles!) and the sauce is a tasty mix of cream of chicken soup, garlic, and Italian seasonings!

For more hearty slow cooker recipes that the whole family will love, try these! Olive Garden chicken with pasta, chicken and dumplings, or crack chicken!

Creamy chicken and noodles in the slow cooker.

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Noodles

You guys. This chicken and noodles recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner. You throw everything in the Crockpot in the morning and then come home to an amazing hearty meal. It’s an all-in-one meal that even your pickiest eaters will be raving about.

The sauce for this Crockpot chicken and noodles is to die for. And the best part is, it’s just a simple mixture of cream of chicken soup, butter, and a few tasty seasonings. It’s thick, rich, and coats the egg noodles perfectly! My youngest said this was the ‘best dinner ever’ and that means a lot coming from her! She’s my toughest critic!

Don’t Worry!

This recipe is Picky Eater Approved!

Ingredient List

One of the best things about this chicken and noodles recipe is that you’ll probably already have most of the ingredients to make it! Simply combine them all and let your slow cooker work its magic.

  • Boneless Chicken Breasts: The main protein in the dish. They get so juicy and tender! You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
  • Chicken Broth: Adjusts the consistency of the sauce without dulling the flavor.
  • Butter: Adds richness to the dish.
  • Salt and Pepper: Trusty seasonings, add to taste.
  • Spices and Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: The creamy base of the sauce.
  • Dry Egg Noodles: You can use any kind of pasta here, but I love the stroganoff feel that egg noodles add.

Crockpot Chicken and Noodles Recipe

So easy and so delicious! This slow cooker chicken and noodles recipe is one you’ll want to have on repeat. The flavor of the sauce and tender shredded chicken is just too good.

  1. Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the bottom of the crock pot. Then add the slices of butter on top of the chicken.
  2. Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, add the broth, cream of chicken soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasonings. Whisk to combine then pour over the chicken and butter.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-4 hours.
  4. Shred Chicken: Shred the chicken using two forks then add the shredded chicken and uncooked noodles to the crock pot.
  5. Add Noodles: Stir the noodles into the crock pot then cover and continue cooking for 20-40 minutes or until the noodles are cooked, stirring occasionally. Add a small amount of broth or water if more liquid is needed to cover the noodles. 
  6. Serve: Season to taste and then serve chicken and noodles over mashed potatoes.
4-photo collage of the chicken breasts being added to a crockpot along with the sauce ingredients and pasta.

Tips and Variations

  • Make it Cheesy: Stir in shredded parmesan or mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamy, cheesy touch.
  • Cook Low and Slow: You can cook your chicken and noodles on high heat if you’re short on time, but lower heat creates more tender chicken and prevents overcooked noodles.
  • Don’t Lift the Lid: Avoid lifting the lid too often, as it releases heat and extends cooking time.
  • Serve With: The recipe suggests serving your chicken and noodles over mashed potatoes, but you could also serve it over white rice, brown rice, or just enjoy it as-is! Complete your meal with rolls or breadsticks for dipping in that tasty sauce.

Chicken and noodles in a wooden spoon.

Storing Leftover Chicken and Noodles

If you have leftovers, lucky you! They heat up beautifully throughout the week. Transfer your chicken and noodles to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the microwave, stirring in between one minute intervals, or over the stove on medium heat.

Chicken and pasta served over mashed potatoes.

More Tried and True Slow Cooker Recipes

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  • Place the chicken breasts into the bottom of the crock pot. Add the slices of butter on top of the chicken.

  • In a large bowl, add the broth, cream of chicken soup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasonings. Whisk to combine then pour over the chicken and butter.

  • Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-4 hours.

  • Shred the chicken using two forks then add the shredded chicken and uncooked noodles to the crock pot.

  • Stir the noodles into the crock pot then cover and continue cooking for 20-40 minutes or until the noodles are cooked, stirring occasionally. Add a small amount of broth or water if more liquid is needed to cover the noodles.

  • Season to taste and serve over mashed potatoes.

Calories: 967kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 61gFat: 56gSaturated Fat: 24gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 19gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 271mgSodium: 2862mgPotassium: 781mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1226IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 94mgIron: 5mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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Don’t delay: Sign up by Dec 15 for coverage that starts Jan 1!

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Don’t delay: Sign up by Dec 15 for coverage that starts Jan 1!


Published on December 7, 2023

Time is running out. The December 15 deadline to apply, re-enroll, or make changes for Marketplace coverage that starts January 1 is approaching fast. Act now to avoid any gaps in coverage. 

Take charge of your health & apply today

Notice:

Acting now means getting the coverage you need for you and your family that starts January 1. 

  • If you’re new to HealthCare.gov: Create an account and complete an application.
  • If you have 2023 Marketplace coverage: Log in to your account to update your application, compare plans, and change or renew your plan for next year.

Even if you want to keep your same plan for next year, keep in mind that:

  • Certain income and household changes can impact the savings you qualify for. Review and update your application to make sure you choose the best plan for next year.
  • Your health care needs and budget may have changed since you last applied. There might be other plans available that better fit your needs. Explore all plan options so you make the most informed decision.



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Putting the Power of Motherhood in Your Hands

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Putting the Power of Motherhood in Your Hands


By Christina Orlovsky

For many mothers-to-be, pregnancy is a time of excitement and expectation, as they eagerly await the arrival of their newborn. For many more, however, it is also a time of uncertainty, anxiety, and unanswered questions. This is especially true in diverse communities across the United States – the only developed country whose maternal mortality rate has been steadily rising over recent decades. In fact, the most recent CDC statistics show that there were 23.8 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2020, up significantly from 20.1 in 2019.

This grim statistic is also accompanied by further data that shows disparities among racial and ethnic groups, with Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native women two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. They are disproportionately affected by pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and gestational diabetes. These inequities underscore the need to include diverse populations in research on maternal care to reduce these disparities and improve the outcomes for pregnant people of all races and ethnicities.

That’s where PowerMom comes into play. An innovative smartphone app-based research study conducted by Scripps Research, a leading institution for research in the biomedical sciences, PowerMom was born out of a commitment to transform medical research through digital data. A community for a community, PowerMom’s mission is to uncover patterns in healthy pregnancies and discover answers to questions moms (and soon-to-be-moms) have about their bodies and their growing babies. With the help of thousands of study participants, PowerMom strives to answer important questions about what makes a healthy pregnancy for the diverse pregnant population in an effort to ensure the health and well-being of all moms and babies for generations to come.

Here, Tolúwalàṣé (Laṣé) Ajayi, MD, FAAP, the lead researcher for PowerMom, shares what inspired her passion for this powerful research and how PowerMom aims to help achieve equity in maternity care for all pregnant people.

Q: What inspired you to pursue research in maternal health?

LA: This was a personal passion project of mine. When I was pregnant with my first daughter in 2017, I learned from experience just how different each pregnancy can be for everybody. Also, because of my background in pediatrics, I am also well aware of the health disparities that happen within pregnancy care, and even how I was treated with my own pregnancy. Again, I’m a pediatrician. I work within a health care institution. I received care at my own institution, and I was blatantly discriminated against. I didn’t have an outlet. I felt that even though I am educated and versed in this population, I didn’t have a tool to allow me to be heard. I realized that PowerMom can be such a powerful tool to really gather data so we can have healthy pregnancies for everybody.

Q: What are some of the disparities that are occurring right now in research and just with pregnant women at large?

LA: There are a couple. With research at large, we know that there’s a large disparity in who gets funded to do clinical studies. There’s a large disparity in the type of principal investigators who are selected from racial, ethnic, and LGBTQ backgrounds. Those who are funded to do clinical studies and those who are conducting the clinical studies really affect who then enrolls in clinical studies in general. The result is a disparity within the population who’s conducting the study, and then those who actually participate in the study.

Q: How does this affect pregnant women at large?

LA: In general, pregnant people were not included in research because we have been seen as – and I say “we” because I just had my second daughter – a protected population. Finally, when you look at the disparities within the type of pregnant people included in research, you see a large underrepresentation within Black, Hispanic, Native American, and other ethnic and racial minorities.

Q: How is PowerMom working to effect change in these important areas?

LA: PowerMom’s unique digital platform breaks down barriers to accessing research, allowing more people to participate from anywhere. This way, we can gather data – through surveys and data collected from wearable devices like a Fitbit or Apple Watch – from diverse participants and build a community representative of a full spectrum of racial and ethnic groups. In this way, we are putting the participant first – meeting them where they are. When a participant sees that a study is being directed at them and for them, they’re more likely to engage. They’re more likely to want to put forth their data and be included, because they’re seen as partners, and as equals within the study.

Q: How does all of this empower pregnant people?

LA: We are empowering women with their data. We are providing them with a tool they can share with their health care provider and say, “This is different.” We are giving them a record they can keep track of their baseline and their changes. It’s a tool that allows them to advocate for themselves and actually have a conversation. By having that conversation, not only are they helping themselves be educated, but they’re also helping their health care providers be educated. They’re helping health providers say, “You know what? Maybe the way that we’re doing these things isn’t the best way, or it isn’t really a way that addresses everybody. How can I change my practice so I can actually help my patients better?”

Q: How do you see PowerMom growing in the future?

LA: Right now, PowerMom is largely observational: gathering data, seeing what works, how we can approach women, and what’s happening in women’s lives. Next, I would like to power PowerMom to do interventions. How can we then use technology to address things like preeclampsia? How can we use interventions to reduce gestational diabetes, to treat pregnancy induced hypertension, to then intervene to treat these conditions earlier? That’s where I see PowerMom growing in the near future.

Christina Orlovsky is a medical copywriter for Scripps Research. She specializes in the creation of health-related content and has more than 2 decades of experience in feature writing, marketing, and copywriting for national print and online publications and health care organizations.

In collaboration with WebMD, PowerMom is a smartphone app-based research study that enables expectant mothers to share data about their pregnancies with scientists. For more information or to enroll in PowerMom, visit https://powermom.scripps.edu/.

This article is part of WebMD/Medscape’s contributor program, which lets people and organizations outside of WebMD/Medscape submit articles for consideration on our sites. Have an idea for a submission? Email us at [email protected].

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Spotlight On The Infectious Diseases Podcast Over 15 Years Old That Just Added New Mobile Streaming Options

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Spotlight On The Infectious Diseases Podcast Over 15 Years Old That Just Added New Mobile Streaming Options


In this article the story of an infectious diseases podcasts is discussed – IDpodcasts.

Authored By: Richard L Oehler, MD

Co-founder and Webmaster of ID Podcasts Platforms

University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA

Article Posted 19 June 2023

In 2007, the University of South Florida Division of Infectious Diseases (ID) was looking for a way to archive and webcast live medical presentations given by its ID faculty.  It was the dawn of the online streaming era, and platforms such as YouTube, acquired by Google only a year earlier (2006), were brand new.  When people thought about online web streaming in those days, they tended to think about cute cat videos and biting toddlers.

Adopting the name, “IDPodcasts,” the project (the term “podcast” was coined by a BBC journalist in 2004) sought to adapt infectious diseases presentations to a format recently popularized by the popular iPod music player of the 2000’s. ID Podcasts’ first podcast, “A Tour of the London Museum of Science,” was posted in June 2007.  

From there, our content grew rapidly – we commemorated our 100th podcast in November 2009, and our first early smartphone apps were released in May 2010.   A YouTube channel was inaugurated in 2012 and a second-generation website followed in 2017.  We celebrated our 15th anniversary in 2022. This year, a new 3rd generation multimedia streaming app was released for IOS devices, with an Android app soon to follow.

Today, ID Podcasts hosts hundreds of hours of infectious diseases presentations from more than ninety ID fellow and faculty authors, mostly from University of South Florida-affiliated presenters and select outside guest contributors. The site’s content is provided as an educational presentation, not the more recent concept of an interactive interview program, a la “the Joe Rogan experience,” the excellent “Febrile podcast,” or “Pod Save America.” Its YouTube channel hosts more than 300 presentations, has tens of thousands of subscribers from nearly 100 countries, and is approaching 2 million lifetime views.  

ID Podcasts’ educational content can be accessed in multiple ways, including its Apple podcast series, YouTube Channel, and website (https://idpodcasts.net).  But for iPhone users, the IOS IDPodcasts app may offer the best smartphone experience.  

After downloading the program from the IOS App Store, it opens to the “latest” tab featuring recent infectious diseases related stories linked to the University of Minnesota’s CIDRAP (Center for Infectious Diseases Research and Policy), its ID news-content resource. A second tab features the newest uploaded podcast presentations. Recently uploaded podcasts to the platform at the time of this review included presentations on “HIV: Test and Treat,” “Updates on Tuberculosis,” and “Managing Beta-lactam Allergies.”

With more than 300 presentations available online, ID Podcasts excels at having a comprehensive database of content in multiple categories of infectious diseases. Category Search allows the user to pull up ID presentations in more than 45 groups, such as “bacterial Infections,” “HIV/AIDS,” and sexually transmitted diseases.” 

There is an extensive collection of content related to antimicrobial stewardship on the site, including presentations on “Antibiotic stewardship and superbugs,” Social stewardship,” “Antibiotics: Just in Case,” and “Antibiotic stewardship in oncologic care.” Multiple presentations can also be accessed on pharmacology, adverse drug reactions, pharmacotherapeutics, and antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. 

The new IOS app includes features that make viewing content on a smartphone more enjoyable.  These include the ability to designate favorites, an audio-only playlist for in-car streaming, background audio play, picture-in-picture (PIP) play, master search capability, Airplay/screen mirroring for playback on a large monitor, and regularly updated infectious diseases news content.  The app works equally well on an iPad, especially in portrait orientation. Listening and learning while driving has become incredibly accessible, given its compatibility with Apple CarPlay. 

ID Podcasts’ platforms are entirely self-supported by USF’s Morsani College of Medicin, USF Health, and Tampa General Hospital. The app and website are accessible to all; no paywall, subscription or user fees are requested. 

We are really delighted to be able to share some information about our site to IDstewardship.com’s audience.  Thanks to the IDstewardship team for allowing us to share this information.

The ID Podcasts IOS app features ID news related content, and a comprehensive catalogue of ID presentations across more than 40 categories with extensive search features.

RECOMMENDED TO YOU



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Ted Lasso Biscuits Recipe | The Recipe Critic

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Ted Lasso Biscuits Recipe | The Recipe Critic


This website may contain affiliate links and advertising so that we can provide recipes to you. Read my disclosure policy.

After tasting these delicious Ted Lasso Biscuits in real life, you’ll understand just why Rebecca was obsessed with them! They are sweet and have the perfect shortbread texture.

I love a good cookie (or when I’m watching British shows, a biscuit). If you love them like I do then you must try this delicious Levain Cookie, this classic Butterscotch Cookie or these easy to make Copycat Crumbl Cookies!

Biscuits (cookies) cut into rectangles on parchment paper with a pink box next to them filled with the cookies.

The BEST Ted Lasso Biscuit Recipe

I know that on the show, Ted Lasso, after Ted delivers that tiny pink box filled with biscuits to his boss Rebecca each day, you can just see how much she savors the flavor. They never talk about what the biscuits taste like but they ALWAYS show you how delicious they are. Everyone is obsessed. Just like Ted worked for weeks and weeks perfecting his recipe, I’ve perfected mine and you are going to love it. Rebecca is going to wish that she got to try this recipe too!

These Ted Lasso Biscuits (AKA cookies, if you are living in the states like me) have the same texture as shortbread cookies. They have a buttery almond flavor and melt in your mouth. I am telling you, I can’t get enough!

Ingredients in Ted Lasso Biscuits

The secret is out! These shortbread cookies are to die for and now you can bake them at home! Check out the recipe card at the bottom of the post for all of the exact ingredient measurements.

  • Flour: I used all purpose flour in this recipe.
  • Sugar: This sweetens up the recipe so the cookies are nice and delicious.
  • Salt: The salt enhances all of the flavors in the biscuits.
  • Extract: I use vanilla and almond extract in this recipe to get just the right flavors.
  • Butter: Use unsalted butter in this recipe. Set it out beforehand so that it’s at room temperature when you mix it in.
  • Course Sugar: This is used to sprinkle on top of the finished dough.

How to Make Ted Lasso Biscuits

I drool over these biscuits every time I see them on the show. Biscuits with the boss are too good not to make at home!

  1. Prep: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang on two sides for easy removal. Set aside.
  2. Combine: Add the flour, sugar and salt to a large bowl and whisk to combine. Add the extracts and butter and cut in with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
  3. Press and Chill the Dough: Press the dough into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the coarse sugar over the top and gently press into the dough before chilling for 20-30 minutes.
  4. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top begins to turn golden brown. Let the shortbread rest out of the oven for 5-10 minutes before carefully lifting it out of the pan and cut into 12 pieces, or however many you would like. I cut them to the size I needed to fit in my biscuit box.
  5. Cool: Let cool completely before serving.
A collage of 4 pictures showing how to make the dough.

Tips and Tricks

These Ted Lasso biscuits with the boss will be your new favorite treat!

  • High-Quality Butter: Using high-quality butter gives these buttery cookies a richer flavor! If you use salted butter, omit the added salt from the recipe.
  • Don’t Overwork: Avoid handling the dough too much in order to keep it light and crisp. Mix just until the dough begins to come together then press directly into the prepared baking pan. 
  • Chill The Dough: Chill the biscuit dough for at least 20 minutes before baking. You can prepare the dough the day before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then bake it the next day. 
  • Cut it while it’s warm: These biscuits set-up to be a dense shortbread, so it’s best to cut them into pieces while they are warm and soft.
  • Line the box with wax paper: Because these biscuits are so buttery, it’s best to lay a sheet of wax paper in the box you plan on putting them in. This will prevent any butter from seeping into the paper of the box.

A close up of the shortbread Ted Lasso biscuits on parchment paper.

Storing Leftovers

You are SO lucky if you have leftovers of these Ted Lasso Biscuits!!

  • At Room Temperature: Store biscuits in an airtight container for up to 12 days. 
  • In the Freezer: Freeze baked biscuits in an airtight container or sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months (make sure to label it with the date)! Let the biscuits thaw completely at room temperature before serving.

A closeup of Ted Lasso biscuits in a pink box.

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  • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang on two sides for easy removal. Set aside.

  • Add the flour, sugar and salt to a large bowl and whisk to combine. Add the extracts and butter and cut in with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

  • Press the dough into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the coarse sugar over the top and gently press into the dough before chilling for 20-30 minutes.

  • Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top begins to turn golden brown. Let the shortbread rest out of the oven for 5-10 minutes before carefully lifting it out of the pan and cut into 12 pieces, or however many you would like. I cut them to the size I needed to fit in my biscuit box.

  • Let cool completely before serving.

Calories: 379kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 3gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 61mgSodium: 9mgPotassium: 41mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 709IUCalcium: 12mgIron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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Sensory Toys Help Kids and Adults

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Sensory Toys Help Kids and Adults


You may have been told by a parent, teacher, or even a colleague to “stop fidgeting,” as that behavior was associated with boredom or lack of attention. However, evidence shows that fidgeting, or secondary sensory input, can be a useful coping mechanism for children and adults with attention disorders.

Fidgeting can also release excess energy or emotion for people dealing with anxiety and stress. Therefore, fidgets and sensory toys can be valuable tools, empowering an individual to refocus and be more present for the task or situation at hand.

Helping Children Self-Regulate

Fidgets and sensory toys have become a popular trend in gift giving, both for their entertainment value and for the sensory input they provide.

Fun and Function, a company based in Narberth, PA, was founded by Aviva Weiss, who was seeking sensory toys for her children. The company sells toys like putty and chewy necklaces; clothing like weighted compression vests; and items for use in classrooms. These sensory and therapeutic tools help kids manage anxiety, attention disorders, and other social-emotional regulation challenges while also having fun.

“Our goal is to provide tools for children to use so that they can reach sensory equilibrium, regulating their bodies and emotions to where they can be calm and able to engage,” says Ward. “It’s important for anyone at any age — especially children — to learn how to be in control of their bodies, recognize and respond to their own feelings, and ultimately be present and participatory in their environment.”

Fidgets and sensory toys have become increasingly popular at Tildie’s Toy Box in Philadelphia. “We have an entire area of the store dedicated to fidgets and sensory toys because we’ve recognized the need for it,” says owner Michelle Gillen-Doobrajh.

“Our sensory toys, like slime and fidgets, are some of our most popular items among school-aged kids,” Gillen-Doobrajh adds. “They’re collectables, but kids aren’t just collecting them. Sensory toys provide a calming effect, give kids something to do with their hands when they’re anxious, and help them focus their bodies when they need extra support.”

“When a child has their sensory needs met, they can participate in meaningful occupations — whether those are life skills, classroom learning, play, or socialization,” Ward notes. “When kids are equipped with the tools that work for them, whether that’s a fidget, a swing, or a weighted lap pad, that’s when they can show up as their best selves and reach their potential.”

Helping Adults Manage Anxiety

Adults find fidget toys useful for their mental health as well. These products can support adults in managing anxiety or focusing nervous energy, and Gillen-Doobrajh has seen an increasing number of adults purchasing such items in her store.

“We get a lot of young adults coming in looking for fidgets,” she says. “Lately, magnetic beads have been a popular choice. They’re work-friendly, don’t take up a lot of space or time to play with, and provide something for people to use to take a mental break. Fidgets for adults can be incredibly soothing or helpful, but they can also help someone find a little bit of that child-like joy.”

For more information about mental health, self-care strategies, and where to find help, visit ibx.com/knowyourmind.



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Why I Ditched My Alarm For a Sunrise Alarm Clock

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Why I Ditched My Alarm For a Sunrise Alarm Clock


Waking up to the shrill beeping of an alarm has been the norm for many years. However, there is an alternative. Natural alarm clocks or wake-up lights can mimic the natural rhythm of the sun. They gradually promote wakefulness with soft, simulated morning light. Here’s how these devices can foster a more balanced and refreshed start to the day.

Downsides of a Traditional Alarm

People have relied on traditional alarm clocks with loud, blaring sounds for decades. While these alarm clocks may be effective at rousing a household, there are some potential downsides. For example:

  • Abrupt Awakening: The sudden, loud sound of traditional alarm clocks startles a person awake. This sudden jolt may cause a spike in stress hormones like cortisol and lead to grogginess, which may last a while after waking up.
  • Increased Stress and Anxiety: Waking up to a loud alarm can create stress and anxiety, especially if the sound is irritating. The association with stressful situations (like rushing to work or school) can also contribute to feelings of anxiety.
  • Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Abrupt waking from a deep sleep stage can interrupt our natural sleep cycle, the circadian rhythm. This may lead to disrupted sleep patterns and tiredness throughout the day.
  • Negative Mood: Starting the day with a loud, unpleasant sound can set a negative tone for the morning, impacting mood and overall well-being. Starting the day with negativity is not a recipe for a good day at work or with the family.
  • Physical Effects: For some people, the sudden shock of a blaring alarm clock can even increase heart rate and blood pressure. High blood pressure is a known risk factor for cardiovascular problems. 

To avoid these potential downsides, some people opt for alternative wake-up methods. They may seek out wake-up lights or alarms with soothing music or nature sounds. These can create a smoother transition from sleep to wakefulness, creating a better morning experience.

What is a Wake-up Light? 

A wake-up light, also called a sunrise alarm clock or dawn simulator, is a type of alarm clock that produces an artificial dawn. It’s designed to wake you up more gently and naturally by simulating a sunrise. Instead of abrupt sounds, wake-up lights use light to mimic the natural sunrise. They gradually increase in brightness over 15 to 40 minutes before the alarm time.

The idea behind wake-up lights is to simulate a natural sunrise. When the sun comes up, it triggers the body to gradually reduce melatonin production and increase cortisol production. While many people emphasize cortisol as the “stress hormone,” it also helps you feel awake and alert. 

This gradual increase in light helps regulate the body’s internal clock: the circadian rhythm. A potential result is a better mood and energy when you wake up each morning.

What Are The Benefits? 

For those who find it difficult to get up in the morning or live in places with limited natural light, using a wake-up light may help. Here are several potential benefits:

  • Natural Wake-Up Experience: Wake-up lights simulate a sunrise, gradually increasing brightness until alarm time. This gradual light exposure mimics the natural waking process, signaling the body to reduce the production of sleep hormones like melatonin and increase the production of cortisol. In this way, it helps you wake up more naturally.
  • Reduced Sleep Inertia: By gently waking you up with light rather than a sudden, loud noise, wake-up lights can reduce something called sleep inertia. Sleep inertia is the grogginess and disorientation associated with awakening from deep sleep. Ultimately, it can help you feel more alert and less sluggish in the morning.
  • Improved Mood and Energy: Waking up to gradually increasing light can positively impact mood and energy levels. In a 1993 trial, using a wake-up light improved feelings of depression in patients with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). A 2005 meta-analysis confirmed that bright light therapy improved feelings of depression.
  • Regulation of Circadian Rhythm: Consistent use of a wake-up light can help regulate the body’s internal clock and circadian rhythm. This may lead to better sleep quality and a more stable sleep-wake cycle over time.
  • Personalized Settings: Many wake-up lights come with customizable features such as light intensity, color, and nature sounds, allowing users to personalize their waking experience based on their preferences.
  • Useful for Dark Mornings or Shift Work: For those working non-traditional hours, wake-up lights can be particularly useful. They can provide that sunrise experience, helping the body adjust to waking up while it’s dark.

Overall, wake-up lights offer a more gentle and natural way to wake up, potentially improving overall well-being. However, some people may still prefer traditional alarm clocks or other waking methods. 

What to Look For in Sunrise Alarm Clocks

Sunrise alarm clocks vary widely in price and features. You can get them for as little as $30 or pay up to $200 for luxury touches. Here are some of the options/features of the best alarm clocks that mimic the sun:

  • Sunrise simulation
  • Sunset simulation
  • Soothing sounds/nature sounds during wake-up or wind-down
  • A noise machine for better sleep at night
  • FM radio option
  • Customizable brightness settings
  • Light color options
  • Optional use as a bedside lamp or reading light
  • Does NOT rely on WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity  to work

Some alarms are even smart alarm clocks, compatible with Google or Alexa devices. Wireless or smart alarms are also high in EMF radiation though, so they’re not something I feel comfortable sleeping next to at night!

The Best Sunrise Alarm Clocks

While there’s a wide range of features on sunrise alarms, you don’t have to spend a lot. Here are some of the most popular sunrise alarm clocks and my thoughts on them.

Homelabs Sunrise Alarm Clock 

The Homelabs Sunrise Alarm Clock is an affordable sunrise simulation alarm at $30. (I’ve even seen it on sale for $20). Even though it’s inexpensive, the Homelabs alarm has many customizable options. It also gets decent ratings, though some of the reviews are mixed on quality. 

Its warm LED light has eight color options, including sunshine yellow, neon, green, and magenta. The light gradually brightens over 30 minutes until wake-up time. You can also use it as a reading lamp as you wind down at night. It has several soothing sounds to wake up to, or you can opt for the FM radio. This clock has a ton of options for $30!

Casper Glow Light

The Casper Glow Light is a popular sunrise clock for gently coaxing yourself awake. The brightness settings allow you to adjust the warmth and brightness according to your preferences or needs. However, there aren’t any sound options, so it might not be the best alarm for heavy sleepers.

There are some serious downsides to this alarm though. The Casper retails for about $130, significantly more than other options. It also has a wireless charger and the timer uses Bluetooth connected through an app on your phone so it emits high levels of EMF radiation.

Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light

The SmartSleep Wake-Up Light gradually increases in brightness, simulating a sunrise before the alarm time. It also has five natural wake-up sounds that you can pair with the sunrise simulator. If you prefer to wake up to your favorite station, you can select FM radio.

The SmartSleep has a snooze button, allowing you to relax for a few more minutes before the alarm sounds again. While it looks like a giant sun coming up in the morning, it can also double as a reading lamp or ambient lighting in the bedroom. It also has the option of a midnight light that serves as a nightlight. The SmartSleep Wake-Up retails for $110.

This model does not have Bluetooth capabilities, so it emits lower EMF radiation. 

The Philips SmartSleep Connected Sleep is another wake-up light from the same brand, but it does have WiFi. While it offers more features (and a higher price tag!), it only works if it’s connected to the WiFi on your phone. So it’s not something I would recommend. 

Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock

The Hatch Restore 2 is another popular light alarm clock. It combines several sleep products, including a sunset simulator, a noise machine, a night light, and a sunlight alarm clock. The noise machine also has the option of white noise, pink noise, or brown noise.

While it has lots of light options it’s also expensive ($200). The other major downside is that like the Philips SmartSleep Connected Sleep, it only runs when connected to an app on your phone. So again, not something I would recommend. 

What I Use: The JALL Wake Up Light

The JALL Wake Up Light is my top pick and the one I bought for myself. At about $40, it’s an affordable way to have a gentle wake-up experience each morning. This clock looks like a giant sun and has several sound options to wake you up. Wake up to birds chirping, ocean waves, or wind chimes, for example. 

It has a 30-minute gradual wake-up period. However, you can shorten it to 20 or even 10 minutes. Another great feature is that you can program it for different days of the week. For example, you can set it for different wake-up times on weekdays versus weekends. You can also have it go off twice for you and your spouse. 

At night, you can use it as a bedside lamp depending on the brightness level. Again, this clock is an excellent value for all its features.

Other Elements of a Healthy Sleep Environment

A natural awakening each morning is only part of a healthy sleep experience. It all starts in the evening before your head even hits the pillow. Some key elements of a healthy sleep environment include the following:

  • No Artificial Blue Light After Sunset: Avoid exposure to computers, smartphones, iPads, and TV for at least 90 minutes before bedtime. If you must use them download a program like f.lux on your computer and/or wear orange glasses to block the blue light.
  • Keep Cool: It’s always been standard advice to keep your bedroom cool for better sleep. However, sometimes hormones or other things can cause us to heat up too much. I try to keep my room around 65 degrees at night. 
  • Ensure Your Room is Dark: Use blackout curtains to cover windows or wear a sleep mask to make sure there’s no light to interfere with your melatonin production. Our family also does not use night lights in our bedrooms at night (even the kids!)
  • Block Out Disruptive Sounds: Some wake-up lights incorporate white noise or another sound machine within the device. White noise, brown noise, or even pink noise can help to block out sounds from outside or the next room, helping you get restful sleep.
  • Keep the EMFs at a Distance: Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from  WIFI and cell phone towers are known to disrupt sleep. Turn off your WIFI at night manually or with an EMF Safe Switch. Anything that’s plugged into an outlet will emit low levels of EMFs. An easy way to reduce these levels is to keep anything plugged in away from your head at night. 
  • Switch to Organic Bedding: Many sheets and blankets are treated with chemicals during manufacturing. The idea is to make them stain-resistant, water-resistant, or flame-resistant. However, breathing in chemicals for ? of your life isn’t the way to health. Learn more about natural/organic bedding here.
  • Try a Buckwheat Pillow: Buckwheat hulls are a better pillow stuffing for air circulation. So, they can help your head cooler for a better night’s sleep. They can also be more comfortable for your neck and spine. You can make them yourself or find them on Amazon. 

It takes time and a bit of effort to put together a healthy sleep environment and routine. I did it a little at a time.

What I Do

I bought the JALL Wake Up Light Sunrise Alarm Clock on Amazon several years ago. It sits on my nightstand with a few other favorite sleep products, which you can read about here. I also keep my bedroom really dark so no light disturbs my melatonin production at night.

Another one of the biggest changes I’ve made for my health is going outside every morning as soon as possible after waking up. Even if it’s a cloudy day, I get broad-spectrum light from outside. I also avoid artificial light after sunset and do these things I recommend to moms. 

Do you use a natural alarm clock or wake-up light? Have you noticed a positive difference? Share with us below!



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Ignite Your Absorption: The Best HIIT Activities for Weight decrease

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Ignite Your Absorption: The Best HIIT Activities for Weight decrease

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Outrageous cardio work out (HIIT) has emerged as an awe-inspiring phenomenon in the space of health, changing how we approach weight decrease and as a rule. With its short blasts of serious development followed by brief relief periods, HIIT expands calorie consume, upholds assimilation, and advances fat setback. In this article, we will explore likely the best HIIT practices unequivocally modified for effective weight decrease.

  1. ** Tabata Training:**
  • The Construction: 20 seconds of enthusiastic activity, then 10 seconds of rest; repeat for 4 minutes.
  • Best Exercises: Some of the exercises include burpees, squat jumps, mountain climbers, high knees, and squat jumps. ** Why it’s effective:**
    • Tabata is a fast and outrageous activity that raises the beat rapidly, inciting extended calorie utilization and fat consuming.
  1. ** The Workout in 7 Minutes:**
  • Structure: 30 seconds of every movement, with 10 seconds of in the center between; Finish the circuit in just seven minutes.
  • Best Exercises:
    • Bouncing jacks
    • Wall sit
    • Push-ups
    • Board
  • Why it’s effective:
    • This time-useful activity joins cardiovascular and strength-getting ready works out, lifting a complete method for managing weight decrease.
  1. ** Stretch Running:**
  • Structure: switching between running, strolling, and running at different times.
  • The Best Exercises:
    • 30 seconds of running; – 1 to 2 minutes of walking or running; – Why it is effective:
    • Stretch running works on cardiovascular wellness, consumes calories, and fortifies an assortment of muscle gatherings, which assists individuals with getting in shape.
  1. ** Circuit Training:**
  • Structure: Going through a movement of exercises with inconsequential rest between each; complete various rounds.
  • The Best Exercises:
    • Work out with rope
    • Convenient weight swings
    • Box jumps
    • Hand weight motors
  • Why it’s effective:
    • Vigorous exercise joins strength and high-influence works out, updating calorie consume and progressing both muscle molding and fat mishap.
  1. ** Pyramid Workout:**
  • The Construction: Gradually growing and subsequently decreasing the power or term of exercises.
  • Best Exercises:
    • Burpees (start with 15 seconds, augmentation to 30 seconds, then, decline back to 15 seconds)
    • Bob squats
    • Push-ups
  • Why it’s effective:
    • Pyramid practices challenge the body by legitimately expanding and a short time later fixing the power, updating calorie consume and tirelessness.
  1. ** EMOM, or Every Minute on the Minute:**
  • Structure: Play out a set number of reps for an action close to the start of every single second, including the overabundance time for rest.
  • Best Exercises:
    • Bounce rushes, box step-ups, and a board with shoulder taps are compelling activities. ** Reasons for its success:**
    • EMOM practices advance consistency in exertion, ensuring a raised level of force all through the gathering.
  1. ** Sprints on bicycles:**
  • Structure: On an exercise bike, switch back and forth between short, serious runs and dynamic recuperation.
  • The Best Exercises:
    • 20 seconds of maximal effort cycling
    • 40 seconds of light advancing for recovery
  • Why it’s effective:
    • Bike runs associate with the lower body muscles, help cardiovascular health, and further develop calorie consume.
  1. ** Bodyweight Explosion:**
  • The Structure: Play out a movement of bodyweight rehearses in a circuit plan.
  • Best Exercises: Plank jacks, bodyweight squats, pushups, and jumping jacks are all examples. Why it’s effective:**
    • This exercise requires irrelevant stuff and spotlights on helpful turns of events, making it accessible and capable for weight decrease.

Tips for Reasonable HIIT Workouts:

  1. ** Suitable Warm-up:**
  • Constantly start with a dynamic prepare to set up your muscles for the power ahead.
  1. ** Intensity Moderate:**
  • As your wellness level ascents, progressively increment the power of your HIIT exercises.
  1. ** Consistency:**
    Important is consistency. Aim high HIIT gatherings every week for ideal results.
  2. ** Focus on Your Body:**
  • Pay attention to your body’s signs and adjust the power or span as needed.
  1. ** Nutrition and hydration:
  • Stay hydrated and fuel your body with nutritious dining experiences to help your energy levels.

Conclusion:

Coordinating the best HIIT practices for weight decrease into your wellbeing routine can be a one of a kind benefit in your trip towards a superior and more smoothed out body. The afterburn impact, in which your body keeps on consuming calories in the wake of working out, is animated by these dynamic, time-proficient exercises as well as augmenting calorie consume during the meeting. Remain reliable and customize your HIIT schedule, and you’ll see a sensational change in your wellness and weight reduction objectives. Remember that the main thing is to figure out some kind of harmony that the two difficulties you and is pleasant and enduring.

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