Something that has come around in the beauty + health industry, specifically with women, is the consumption of collagen supplements to benefit the body inside + out! Vital Proteins has created a collagen peptides powder that can be used in any kind of drink - from water to juices to smoothies - and it is something I use in my weekly regimen. But if you’re not too sold on adding collagen supplements to your routine yet, here are some reasons why you should try!

IMPROVE SKIN HEALTH

Collagen is a major component of your skin. It aids in strengthening skin, plus may benefit elasticity + hydration. As you age, your body produces less collagen. This leads to dry skin and the formation of wrinkles. However, several studies have shown that collagen peptides or supplements containing collagen may help slow the aging process by reducing wrinkles and dryness.

PROMOTES HEART HEALTH

Collagen provides structure to your arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Without enough collagen, arteries can become weak and fragile.

BOOSTS MUSCLE MASS

Between 1–10% of muscle tissue is composed of collagen. This protein is necessary to keep your muscles strong + functioning properly. Studies suggest that collagen supplements help boost muscle mass in people with sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass that happens with age.

PREVENTS BONE LOSS + HELPS JOINT PAIN

Your bones are made mostly of collagen, which gives them structure and helps keep them strong + helps maintain the integrity of your cartilage, which is the rubber-like tissue that protects your joints. Just as the collagen in your body deteriorates as you age, so does bone mass. This may lead to conditions like osteoporosis, which is characterized by low bone density and linked to a higher risk of bone fractures. Taking collagen supplements can have certain effects in the body that help inhibit the bone breakdown that leads to osteoporosis.

Xoxo,

G

One of my fave cooking + all around life hacks is one pan cooking! It is the ultimate tip for anyone looking to cut down on time in the kitchen when they are living a busy life - and you know us Skinny Soupers are all about ease + convenience. This how-to will not only cut down your time in the kitchen, but also help you plan your meals for the week. One pan cooking for the win!

WHAT YOU NEED

• An oven

• A large sheet pan with lips/rims or high edges

• Veggies

• Protein

• Your fave cooking oil

• Your fave seasonings

MY FAVE ONE SHEET RECIPE

I believe simplicity is key when it comes to my one pan wonders, so I usually choose a variety of veggies (and even some fruit sometimes), paired with either chicken or shrimp. If you are plant-based, choose tempeh or tofu!

• Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts

• Potatoes (yukon gold, red, or sweet potatoes, small chunks)

• Bell Peppers

• Zucchini or Butternut Squash

• Pineapple (optional)

• Chicken Breasts (small chunks)

• Shrimp (tail-off)

• EVOO

• Sliced Lemon or Lemon Juice

• Pressed Garlic

• Finely Chopped Onion

• Salt + Pepper

   

Cut all the contents of your one pan wonder into pieces that are relatively the same size for even cooking! Yes, even the meat. Put your one pan wonder in the oven at 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes (you might need more or less time depending on the contents of your pan). Take out, let cool, + enjoy! You can even pair your one pan dishes with a side of rice or place on top of a bed of your favorite greens.

Xoxo,

G

With the weather warming up, I have been craving my mom’s backyard grill-out staple… Edamame Salad! It is light, refreshing, + filled with flavor. Even better, it doesn’t get wilted + soggy like regular salad, but it gets better the more time it spends sitting in the fridge! With the main ingredient being two kinds of beans, this salad is fueling + perfect alongside any kind of grill-out entrees.

INGREDIENTS

• Shelled Edamame (frozen)

• Great Northern or Cannellini Beans (canned)

• Pecorino Romano Cheese

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• Fresh Rosemary

• Fresh Garlic

• Sea Salt

• Fresh Parsley

RECIPE

1. Defrost edamame in a colander with running cold water or let defrost overnight in the fridge. Throw in a large bowl.

2. Rinse canned beans in a colander. Toss together with edamame and some sea salt.

3. Cut pecorino romano cheese into small pieces or cubes. Toss in with beans and edamame.

4. Put a few tablespoons of EVOO in a small saucepan with pressed garlic and chopped rosemary. Stir + continue stirring until mixture is fragrant. DO NOT BURN! Let cool for a few minutes. Pour over edamame, beans, + cheese.

5. Add in chopped parsley + toss.

6. Salt to taste.

7. Put in the fridge + serve chilled. Eat within 5 days.

Xoxo,

G