I just wanted to let you know that the sunscreen you posted (by Alba Botanica) got a 6 by the EWG. Concerns about its toxicity were rated high on the 2013 sunscreen guide.
Hello Alisa. I think you have to weigh the pros and the cons and make the decision that is right for you. It is really difficult to find products that are perfect and pose absolutely no downside. You might find this helpful:http://www.commonsensehome.com/comparison-of-jarden-and-tattler-lids/. ~Amy
What are your thoughts about the Tattler Lids containing the same chemicals as in formaldehyde? I was looking into buying some after seeing your site & a couple others mention them. But the idea of them giving of toxins if exposed to high temperatures makes me a little afraid. What if after prolonged use the chemical can be more of a hazard?
I enjoy many aspects of your blog but find a lot of the product suggestions to be contradictory in nature. You're mindful to eat whole, non-processed foods but use a lot of plastic to store and/or make your food. It would be nice to see you move away from pushing so many non-essential "things," like, a donut maker? And keep to the simple art of simple eating (instead of pushing your paid links to Amazon).
My husband bought me that exact same set of All-Clad pots/pans a few years back and I am ashamed to say I've never used them but still use my nonstick yucky ones because I'm afraid of ruining my nice ones. Do you have any advice or articles written addressing cooking with stainless steal?!
I know alot of you aren't huge subway fans, but I just wanted to add that the divided ziploc containers fit perfectly into the bags their kids meals come in! I have a few we reuse over and over again and I can even fit in a small ice pack and a juicebox along with the containers. I am still, however, looking for a perfect small juicebox size leakproof water bottle so I don't have to upgrade to a larger lunchbox. But it's probably only a matter of time . .
Please refrain from recommending and using Cuisinart appliances. Cuisinart containers contain BPA. I have contacted the company myself to inquire about this and they confirmed it was true. They only have one product which does not use BPA: the PowerEdge 1000-Watt Blender with BPA-Free Jar. Black and Decker food processors like the Mini Chopper you endorse also have BPA.
I highly recommend BPA-free blenders like Vitamix and Blendtec.
I am also surprised that you recommend several products that use non-stick coated surfaces. The Environmental Working Group states that non-stick cooking surfaces can be toxic: http://www.ewg.org/search/site/non-stick
Stainless steel or cast iron pots and pans are the safest and healthiest ways to cook food.
Hi! I was first introduced to this site via a facebook post of a picture of one of your daughters lunches. My daughters are 4 and 7 and have 7 and I am constantly looking for ways to provide them with healthy lunch options. For the past few weeks I have looked your site in an effort to get psyched up enough to do a food challenge :-) My family is "overproccessed" so to get them to change will be MY challenge, but I am working on it. I wanted to know more about cookware. I would love to have the ability to buy every piece of cookware Le Creuset has, but to buy 1 pan would be a challenge. Are there other brands of cookware that you would recommend? I've decided to get rid of all our cookware but wanted brands that you trust as recommendations. I've read about ceramic/enamel and the more I research cookware the more confused I am getting. If you've already answered this question, please for give me. Thanks!
Hi Andrea. Welcome and best of luck as you get started! Did you look through our essentials above? The cookware Lisa uses is listed. Hope that helps. ~Amy
Another cookware question! Very interested in making the all clad purchase. It is going to be hard to convience my husband since I told him 9 years ago that the very expensive set we just had to buy would last us a lifetime, lol! Unfortunatley, it has non-stick coating and it is starting to chip and scratch. So after doing some research, I have a few questions. First, people are complaining that they really are not non-stick. Do you find that you have to use butter every time in order to use the pans like non-stick?
The other question is are they hard to clean?
Last question, the link that you have to amazon, is that exact set you have? There's so many different types or models of all clad cookware.
Thank you so much in advance for any help or insight you might be willing to share!
We have the All-Clad set and LOVE it. It is not totally non-stick, but pretty close. We usually use a bit of olive oil (have the misto sprayer recommended elsewhere on this site) and that helps. Anything that does stick comes up pretty easily with a bit of 'deglazing'. Barkeeper's friend is a great product for making these pans shine like new after a bit of use, but not something we use every day. They are very easy to clean with soap and water. They are also dishwasher safe and we do that from time to time when we are just overwhelmed with dishes. A chef friend of ours recommended getting an All-Clad stainless set, and adding one 12-inch non-stick skillet. We did that and use it frequently when we make salmon. Almost everything else goes in the large stainless skillet. We also have a small 'green' pan (also non-stick, found it at Target) that we use for scrambled eggs (those do stick to the stainless pan).
If you had to start with one pan, I would go with the 3-qt saute pan -- great for almost everything. If you like then, then build up from there.
Concerning your knive recommendation, for those who are short on the cash, a good Chef Knive and a good pare knive is all that is needed in most cases.
LOVE your site and nutrition info! In regards to "clean" deodorant, I dislike applying a "wet" stick...Try Arbonne's Pure Mint Line: deodorant and toothpaste are triclosan, fluoride and paraben free... as well as other clean mineral based makeup skin care and vegan nutrition - totally in line with your principles here :)
Hi! I just ran across your site today, and I want to say I'm so excited! You've inspired me to use more healthful ways in my home. I've been inspired by you and I'm going to study your site and change my life (and my husband's.) Our kids are raised and out of the house.) Wish I would've found a site like this one when they were living at home. I'm excited that what I learn from your site will help with my Type 2 Diabetes. Thanks for helping and encouraging us to live a more healthy life!
I have found a lot of the items you have listed on diapers.com or CASA.com (same website) for a little cheaper and they have free shipping on order $49 or more. You also get a discount for your first purchase. I've used them for years for baby items but now everyone is getting a little older and we have one starting Kindergarten this coming fall so we are gearing up. Thank you for your ideas they are very helpful and creative! I hope I can be as disciplined as you :-) God Bless...Carrie > (Busy mom of 3 boys 4, 2, and 10 months)
I see the apple slicer you use, but which apple corer do you use? I have been wanting to get one to make the apple sandwiches that you do. Thanks for all you do! LOVE your blog!
Thank you for your amazing site and all that you do! You have revolutionized the lunches that my husband and I pack for our daughters. I also feel like we are all eating more healthy foods. Question on the freezer jars: Does it bother you that the jar lids have BPA in them? Have you ever used the Weck type glass lidded jars for freezing? Was wondering what your thoughts are on this.
Hi Jennifer. I did a brief search and found several gluten free puff recipes with various gluten free flours. You will have to decide which ones you are interested in. Here is an example: http://www.celiacteen.com/2010/puffed-gluten-free-pancake/. Good luck. ~Amy
Hi, Thank you for your amazing blog! We've tried so many of your recipes and love all your advice. Tonight I was going to purchase the Norpro Ice Pop Makers when I started reading the comments on Amazon, many people stated that they felt they stunk, do you feel that they stink or have an odor? My son is dairy and gluten free and I thought they would be great addition to his lunch since yogurt is difficult to do. I didn't want to invest the money however if they are stinky, so I thought I better ask an opinion I could trust! Thank you for your advice. - Jodi
My older daughter and I can't stand to eat from these due to the smell; the smell is from the actual material and not from cleaning. However, some people just seem to be more sensitive to it; my younger daughter and my sister and her two children have no problem.
What do they smell like? I am glad I saw this before we ordered them today.
Debbiesays
I just found your website today and I am SO excited!!! This is EXACTLY what I have been looking for! Thank you so much for publishing this blog! You are now my "home page"!
I was just thinking the same thing that Debbie posted on the 12th of February. I am overweight (obese is what the Doctor called it), had a mild heart attack last August and am trying desperately to change my eating habits, and lose weight. I wish I could hire someone like you, to come into my home, go thru my pantry and refrigerator and throw out what needs to go...and then take me shopping and help me to get my pantry and fridge started with the right things. Then I can make a list and buy just those things. I've been pretty good about avoiding sweets, but I travel for my job and live in hotels alot until I find a place to rent short-term. I've practically lived on 'fast food' places and would really like to steer clear of them. I NEED HELP, AND AM SO GLAD TO HAVE FOUND YOUR PAGE! Thank you for sharing, I'm trying to print off all of your steps to your 100 days 'program'.
Hey there! When I decided to really clean up our eating I did a "pantry makeover" with a local licensed nutritionist. If you have a health food store in your area then ask them if they have a recommendation. Get someone good and credible. It costs about $80 and she was at my house for about an hour and a half. Then I use this site as well. One step at a time, one day at a time!
Ricksays
Lots of great ideas there. While it can get annoying to feel like you constantly have to add gadgets, it's worth it to invest in quality and pieces that will be of great benefit for the long-term...
I love stainless steel cookware. I bought Emerilware several yrs ago and they are just as good in my opinion. My sister has all clad, and I have used hers many times and see no difference. AND I use plain baking soda and white vinegar to clean my pants. I would never ever use non stick. FYI....one of the scientists who worked for dupont (I think that was the company) that developed teflon....denounced it several years ago because it leaches chemicals into foods. He and many of his colleagues and family members suffered cancers, and he, after researching for himself, traced the cancers to the coatings.
Hi Our family is starting the 10 day pledge as an introduction to the 100 day pledge, (family is 2 adults 3 children 8yrs, 5 and 3). We start in 4 days so I am getting organised. Concerning the bread, I have a breadmaker and have made a lot of bread so feel happy enough about that but as a back up I just wanted to check the ingredients from a supermarket loaf we often use. It is listed as follows: Water, wheat flour, kibbled soy (8%), linseeds (8%, mixed grains (wheat rye), wheat gluten, yeast, canola oil, vinegar, iodised salt, skim milk powder. Would this fit inside the pledge or not.
Hi Rose. Good luck with the pledge. Unfortunately, that bread would not work, partly because of the canola oil, gluten and skim milk powder. Do you have a Great Harvest nearby? They make a honey whole wheat with only 5 ingredients. Jill
Could you tell me why nonstick pots are bad? This is the first I've heard of it. I'm very curious as I currently use caphelon non-stick. Also, if your are not non-stick, how do you keep food from sticking and are they a pain to clean? Thanks??
i can't live without my Vitamix, rice cooker and pressure cooker and you don't list any of them. brown rice is quick in the rice cooker - plus you can make a big batch and freeze smaller portions. i do this with quinoa too.
I loooove your blog! Wondering if there is a particular blender you use other than the immersion? I am looking for one that is really good with getting ice smooth. Thanks!
Hi Mandy - I can only speak from personal experience, but we love our Vitamix 5200. Note if you use this link you can get free shipping. We will proabably do a blender comparison down the road since people ask and some of the blenders can get very pricey! "Our" Vitamix was actually a present to Lisa from her parents, my parents, AND me. :) She loves it.
Emmasays
Wow! So sorry that my previous comment didn't make sense! I'm nursing and talking to my husband at the same time!
What I'm trying to say is that your measurements can be way off depending on how a reader puts the ingredients in said measuring apparatus. With a scale it's so much more accurate.
I highly recommend using a scale for measuring. It's so much more accurate. With flour the measurement could be cup measuring twice the flour if the original recipe used a spooned-in cup and a person reading the recipe decides to pack the flour in the cup.
You mentioned you use your food processor a lot. I have one and hardly use it. Which recipes do you use it for? Is that what you use to dice pears and such?
Hi Marie. I use the food processor to make things like hummus (and other dips like black bean dip), the lara bars, and a few other recipes that call for dates, as well as certain doughs. You can also use it to shred cheese if you have a lot to do since it comes with different blades. It's really a great appliance to have. Jill
Nan--I was just about to recommend the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro. I came across it by accident and purchased a number of pieces. The stuff is fabulous and far less expensive than All Clad. Cuisinart also has a less expensive line called "Classic", but the Multiclad Pro is the best.
I couldn't afford the All-Clad so I opted for Cuisinat Multiclad Pro. It's frequently on sale on Amazon. Right now the 12 piece set is $245. The aluminum layer extends through the sides, not just a disk in the bottom. NOTE: Lower temps are needed because they are so efficient at conducting heat.
I didn't see a juicer on the list. Do you have one you would recommend? We are thinking about buying one to add some veggies to our breakfast! Thank you,
I've been researching different types of cookware, and was wondering if the all-clad are supposed to be 'healthier' than the cast iron,the enamel coated cast iron, or the ceramic?? There is SO much info out there it can be hard to weed out the good advice from the bad..
Hi Carrie. In terms of cookware, you want a relatively thick pot/pan to evenly distribute the heat and to avoid hot spots. The All-Clad pots are constructed of stainless steel on the inside of the pan (what the food touches) and a few layers of aluminum on the inside and outside. I'm not that familiar with the others...I just try and avoid the coated ones. Hope that helps. Jill
Hi there-- I LOVE your blog. You are a great Mom, Lisa, and have really inspired me. What do you use your food processor for on a regular basis? I have a mini chopper but am considering getting a big one for Christmas. I make a batch of your larabars each week so I definitely could see using it for that, as well as shredding cheese.
Hi Meg - Thanks for the kind words. We use the large food processor mainly for things like pesto, pizza dough, pasta dough, power balls, lara bars, grating cheese, and grating potatoes (if we are making a lot, like for potato pancakes). Hope that helps!
The kitchen aid comes with a shredding attachment which I've used for cheese and carrots. The dough hook makes bread, buns, cinnamon buns, and pizza dough easy. I've been cooking "real food" for 33 years and can't see any reason to buy a food processor as well. Takes up too much space, and let's be honest, consumerism is a bad habit worth breaking too, just like the processed food habit :)
Karesays
What kind of sunflower butter does Lisa buy? I've only tried the Trader Joe's one, but wondered if she had a preference...to try.
I also buy the Trader Joe's brand...not ideal in my opinion, but it's hard to find one that meets all the criteria: organic, no added sugar, and nut-free factory.
Amy - High quality cookware is very important. You want a relatively thick pot/pan to evenly distribute the heat and to avoid hot spots. The All-Clad pots we have are constructed of stainless steel on the inside of the pan (what the food touches) and a few layers of aluminum on the inside and outside. We've had our set since we got married 12 years ago and use them everyday (and love them). If I'm ever cooking on vacation I get frustrated with the low quality cookware common in rentals! Like anything else, sure you can get by with lower quality, but for something you use so much it's worth the investment if you are able. There may be cheaper quality options (I don't know), but we bought on reputation and this is what we have experience with. Hope that helps a little.
Jennifer says
I just wanted to let you know that the sunscreen you posted (by Alba Botanica) got a 6 by the EWG. Concerns about its toxicity were rated high on the 2013 sunscreen guide.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Thanks for the info, Jennifer! ~Amy
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hello Alisa. I think you have to weigh the pros and the cons and make the decision that is right for you. It is really difficult to find products that are perfect and pose absolutely no downside. You might find this helpful:http://www.commonsensehome.com/comparison-of-jarden-and-tattler-lids/. ~Amy
Alisa says
What are your thoughts about the Tattler Lids containing the same chemicals as in formaldehyde? I was looking into buying some after seeing your site & a couple others mention them. But the idea of them giving of toxins if exposed to high temperatures makes me a little afraid. What if after prolonged use the chemical can be more of a hazard?
Stacy says
I enjoy many aspects of your blog but find a lot of the product suggestions to be contradictory in nature. You're mindful to eat whole, non-processed foods but use a lot of plastic to store and/or make your food. It would be nice to see you move away from pushing so many non-essential "things," like, a donut maker? And keep to the simple art of simple eating (instead of pushing your paid links to Amazon).
Jacquie says
My husband bought me that exact same set of All-Clad pots/pans a few years back and I am ashamed to say I've never used them but still use my nonstick yucky ones because I'm afraid of ruining my nice ones. Do you have any advice or articles written addressing cooking with stainless steal?!
Thanks a bunch!
Jacquie :)
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Jacquie. Oh my goodness, use those pans! :) This might help: http://www.mykitchenaddiction.com/2011/04/stainless-steel-cookware-cleaning-tips-wfmw/. Also, Branch Basics is a product we've used that works well on stainless steel: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2013/02/26/branch-basics-non-toxic-all-purpose-cleaner-special-deal/. ~Amy
Lindsay says
What type of non-toxic dishwashing detergent do you recommend?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Lindsay. Here are the posts we've done on cleaning supplies: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2013/02/26/branch-basics-non-toxic-all-purpose-cleaner-special-deal/ and https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/03/21/cleaning-without-chemicals/. Hope this helps. ~Amy
Sarah says
I know alot of you aren't huge subway fans, but I just wanted to add that the divided ziploc containers fit perfectly into the bags their kids meals come in! I have a few we reuse over and over again and I can even fit in a small ice pack and a juicebox along with the containers. I am still, however, looking for a perfect small juicebox size leakproof water bottle so I don't have to upgrade to a larger lunchbox. But it's probably only a matter of time . .
Alex says
Please refrain from recommending and using Cuisinart appliances. Cuisinart containers contain BPA. I have contacted the company myself to inquire about this and they confirmed it was true. They only have one product which does not use BPA: the PowerEdge 1000-Watt Blender with BPA-Free Jar. Black and Decker food processors like the Mini Chopper you endorse also have BPA.
I highly recommend BPA-free blenders like Vitamix and Blendtec.
I am also surprised that you recommend several products that use non-stick coated surfaces. The Environmental Working Group states that non-stick cooking surfaces can be toxic: http://www.ewg.org/search/site/non-stick
Stainless steel or cast iron pots and pans are the safest and healthiest ways to cook food.
Andrea says
Hi! I was first introduced to this site via a facebook post of a picture of one of your daughters lunches. My daughters are 4 and 7 and have 7 and I am constantly looking for ways to provide them with healthy lunch options. For the past few weeks I have looked your site in an effort to get psyched up enough to do a food challenge :-) My family is "overproccessed" so to get them to change will be MY challenge, but I am working on it. I wanted to know more about cookware. I would love to have the ability to buy every piece of cookware Le Creuset has, but to buy 1 pan would be a challenge. Are there other brands of cookware that you would recommend? I've decided to get rid of all our cookware but wanted brands that you trust as recommendations. I've read about ceramic/enamel and the more I research cookware the more confused I am getting. If you've already answered this question, please for give me. Thanks!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Andrea. Welcome and best of luck as you get started! Did you look through our essentials above? The cookware Lisa uses is listed. Hope that helps. ~Amy
Amanda micklos says
Another cookware question! Very interested in making the all clad purchase. It is going to be hard to convience my husband since I told him 9 years ago that the very expensive set we just had to buy would last us a lifetime, lol! Unfortunatley, it has non-stick coating and it is starting to chip and scratch. So after doing some research, I have a few questions. First, people are complaining that they really are not non-stick. Do you find that you have to use butter every time in order to use the pans like non-stick?
The other question is are they hard to clean?
Last question, the link that you have to amazon, is that exact set you have? There's so many different types or models of all clad cookware.
Thank you so much in advance for any help or insight you might be willing to share!
Amanda
Adrianna says
Hi Amanda,
We have the All-Clad set and LOVE it. It is not totally non-stick, but pretty close. We usually use a bit of olive oil (have the misto sprayer recommended elsewhere on this site) and that helps. Anything that does stick comes up pretty easily with a bit of 'deglazing'. Barkeeper's friend is a great product for making these pans shine like new after a bit of use, but not something we use every day. They are very easy to clean with soap and water. They are also dishwasher safe and we do that from time to time when we are just overwhelmed with dishes. A chef friend of ours recommended getting an All-Clad stainless set, and adding one 12-inch non-stick skillet. We did that and use it frequently when we make salmon. Almost everything else goes in the large stainless skillet. We also have a small 'green' pan (also non-stick, found it at Target) that we use for scrambled eggs (those do stick to the stainless pan).
If you had to start with one pan, I would go with the 3-qt saute pan -- great for almost everything. If you like then, then build up from there.
I hope that helps!
Alan Gentry says
Love your site.
Concerning your knive recommendation, for those who are short on the cash, a good Chef Knive and a good pare knive is all that is needed in most cases.
Alan
Laura says
LOVE your site and nutrition info! In regards to "clean" deodorant, I dislike applying a "wet" stick...Try Arbonne's Pure Mint Line: deodorant and toothpaste are triclosan, fluoride and paraben free... as well as other clean mineral based makeup skin care and vegan nutrition - totally in line with your principles here :)
Angie Oesterling says
Hi! I just ran across your site today, and I want to say I'm so excited! You've inspired me to use more healthful ways in my home. I've been inspired by you and I'm going to study your site and change my life (and my husband's.) Our kids are raised and out of the house.) Wish I would've found a site like this one when they were living at home. I'm excited that what I learn from your site will help with my Type 2 Diabetes. Thanks for helping and encouraging us to live a more healthy life!
Carrie says
I have found a lot of the items you have listed on diapers.com or CASA.com (same website) for a little cheaper and they have free shipping on order $49 or more. You also get a discount for your first purchase. I've used them for years for baby items but now everyone is getting a little older and we have one starting Kindergarten this coming fall so we are gearing up. Thank you for your ideas they are very helpful and creative! I hope I can be as disciplined as you :-) God Bless...Carrie > (Busy mom of 3 boys 4, 2, and 10 months)
Brianna says
Hello would you be able to post about freezing foods? When i freeze things tend to get freezer burnt..maybe im doing something wrong?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Brianna. Maybe this will help: http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipes/cooking-tips/guide-to-freezing-food. ~Amy
Erin says
I see the apple slicer you use, but which apple corer do you use? I have been wanting to get one to make the apple sandwiches that you do. Thanks for all you do! LOVE your blog!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Erin. Lisa has mentioned just using a small round cookie cutter for the core. ~Amy
Leigh says
Thank you for your amazing site and all that you do! You have revolutionized the lunches that my husband and I pack for our daughters. I also feel like we are all eating more healthy foods. Question on the freezer jars: Does it bother you that the jar lids have BPA in them? Have you ever used the Weck type glass lidded jars for freezing? Was wondering what your thoughts are on this.
Thank you again!
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Leigh. We are aware of the BPA in jar lids. We feature a sponsor who makes BPA free lids: http://www.reusablecanninglids.com/. We also have freezer safe jars on our essentials page: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/my-kitchen-essentials/#tools. Hope that helps .~Amy
Jennifer says
My son is gluten free dairy free. Do you know if there is a way to make GF puff pancakes?
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Hi Jennifer. I did a brief search and found several gluten free puff recipes with various gluten free flours. You will have to decide which ones you are interested in. Here is an example: http://www.celiacteen.com/2010/puffed-gluten-free-pancake/. Good luck. ~Amy
Jodi Olson says
Hi, Thank you for your amazing blog! We've tried so many of your recipes and love all your advice. Tonight I was going to purchase the Norpro Ice Pop Makers when I started reading the comments on Amazon, many people stated that they felt they stunk, do you feel that they stink or have an odor? My son is dairy and gluten free and I thought they would be great addition to his lunch since yogurt is difficult to do. I didn't want to invest the money however if they are stinky, so I thought I better ask an opinion I could trust! Thank you for your advice. - Jodi
Jason Leake with 100 Days of Real Food says
Thanks! We have no issues whatsoever with odors. We wash them in the dishwasher after thorough rinsing.
angela says
My older daughter and I can't stand to eat from these due to the smell; the smell is from the actual material and not from cleaning. However, some people just seem to be more sensitive to it; my younger daughter and my sister and her two children have no problem.
Jennifer says
What do they smell like? I am glad I saw this before we ordered them today.
Debbie says
I just found your website today and I am SO excited!!! This is EXACTLY what I have been looking for! Thank you so much for publishing this blog! You are now my "home page"!
Lori says
I was just thinking the same thing that Debbie posted on the 12th of February. I am overweight (obese is what the Doctor called it), had a mild heart attack last August and am trying desperately to change my eating habits, and lose weight. I wish I could hire someone like you, to come into my home, go thru my pantry and refrigerator and throw out what needs to go...and then take me shopping and help me to get my pantry and fridge started with the right things. Then I can make a list and buy just those things. I've been pretty good about avoiding sweets, but I travel for my job and live in hotels alot until I find a place to rent short-term. I've practically lived on 'fast food' places and would really like to steer clear of them. I NEED HELP, AND AM SO GLAD TO HAVE FOUND YOUR PAGE! Thank you for sharing, I'm trying to print off all of your steps to your 100 days 'program'.
Assistant to 100 Days (Amy) says
Welcome Lori! Congratulations on making the decision to eat real whole healthy foods. There is so much information here. Try to take advantage of every last bit! If you haven't yet, start here: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/start-here/. One of the most useful things to learn to do well on this path is label reading. Here is a post that will help you decode some of the misleading hype: https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/11/23/misleading-products/, https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2013/02/21/misleading-food-product-roundup-ii-dont-be-fooled/, and https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/2012/01/05/real-food-tips-10-common-misconceptions/. So, dig in and feel free to ask questions as they come up. Give us a bit of time to respond. :)
Good luck. ~Amy
Tullia says
Hey there! When I decided to really clean up our eating I did a "pantry makeover" with a local licensed nutritionist. If you have a health food store in your area then ask them if they have a recommendation. Get someone good and credible. It costs about $80 and she was at my house for about an hour and a half. Then I use this site as well. One step at a time, one day at a time!
Rick says
Lots of great ideas there. While it can get annoying to feel like you constantly have to add gadgets, it's worth it to invest in quality and pieces that will be of great benefit for the long-term...
Suzi says
I love stainless steel cookware. I bought Emerilware several yrs ago and they are just as good in my opinion. My sister has all clad, and I have used hers many times and see no difference. AND I use plain baking soda and white vinegar to clean my pants. I would never ever use non stick. FYI....one of the scientists who worked for dupont (I think that was the company) that developed teflon....denounced it several years ago because it leaches chemicals into foods. He and many of his colleagues and family members suffered cancers, and he, after researching for himself, traced the cancers to the coatings.
Jill Gierach says
What do you use to clean your stainless steel cookware? I use Barkeepers Friend, which works amazing. But I am concerned about chemicals.
Lisa says
We just put our pots and pans in the dishwasher with the rest of our dishes...nothing special!
Rose Welsh says
Hi Our family is starting the 10 day pledge as an introduction to the 100 day pledge, (family is 2 adults 3 children 8yrs, 5 and 3). We start in 4 days so I am getting organised. Concerning the bread, I have a breadmaker and have made a lot of bread so feel happy enough about that but as a back up I just wanted to check the ingredients from a supermarket loaf we often use. It is listed as follows: Water, wheat flour, kibbled soy (8%), linseeds (8%, mixed grains (wheat rye), wheat gluten, yeast, canola oil, vinegar, iodised salt, skim milk powder. Would this fit inside the pledge or not.
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Rose. Good luck with the pledge. Unfortunately, that bread would not work, partly because of the canola oil, gluten and skim milk powder. Do you have a Great Harvest nearby? They make a honey whole wheat with only 5 ingredients. Jill
Diana Harris says
Could you tell me why nonstick pots are bad? This is the first I've heard of it. I'm very curious as I currently use caphelon non-stick. Also, if your are not non-stick, how do you keep food from sticking and are they a pain to clean? Thanks??
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Diana. Here is a link to the pans Lisa uses...https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/my-kitchen-essentials/#tools. As far as non-stick, I don't think there is any conclusive data on its safety (or not), but, they still use a chemical to make them non-stick, so, I choose to simply avoid it. I use my Presto sprayer (https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/my-kitchen-essentials/#tools) that I keep filled with olive oil to make sure things don't stick. Jill
jess says
My kitchen aid ice cream maker attachment!!! Sooooo much fun! You control what goes in your sweet treats.
Karri says
i can't live without my Vitamix, rice cooker and pressure cooker and you don't list any of them. brown rice is quick in the rice cooker - plus you can make a big batch and freeze smaller portions. i do this with quinoa too.
shea says
Wow....no juicer!
Mandy says
I loooove your blog! Wondering if there is a particular blender you use other than the immersion? I am looking for one that is really good with getting ice smooth. Thanks!
Mandy says
Oops! Seeing comments on fb about vitamix:). Is there a certain model u recommend? Thx!
Jason Leake with 100 Days of Real Food says
Hi Mandy - I can only speak from personal experience, but we love our Vitamix 5200. Note if you use this link you can get free shipping. We will proabably do a blender comparison down the road since people ask and some of the blenders can get very pricey! "Our" Vitamix was actually a present to Lisa from her parents, my parents, AND me. :) She loves it.
Emma says
Wow! So sorry that my previous comment didn't make sense! I'm nursing and talking to my husband at the same time!
What I'm trying to say is that your measurements can be way off depending on how a reader puts the ingredients in said measuring apparatus. With a scale it's so much more accurate.
Emma says
I highly recommend using a scale for measuring. It's so much more accurate. With flour the measurement could be cup measuring twice the flour if the original recipe used a spooned-in cup and a person reading the recipe decides to pack the flour in the cup.
Marie says
You mentioned you use your food processor a lot. I have one and hardly use it. Which recipes do you use it for? Is that what you use to dice pears and such?
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Marie. I use the food processor to make things like hummus (and other dips like black bean dip), the lara bars, and a few other recipes that call for dates, as well as certain doughs. You can also use it to shred cheese if you have a lot to do since it comes with different blades. It's really a great appliance to have. Jill
Christine says
Nan--I was just about to recommend the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro. I came across it by accident and purchased a number of pieces. The stuff is fabulous and far less expensive than All Clad. Cuisinart also has a less expensive line called "Classic", but the Multiclad Pro is the best.
Nan says
I couldn't afford the All-Clad so I opted for Cuisinat Multiclad Pro. It's frequently on sale on Amazon. Right now the 12 piece set is $245. The aluminum layer extends through the sides, not just a disk in the bottom. NOTE: Lower temps are needed because they are so efficient at conducting heat.
Melissa says
Thanks for all the great info! What do you use to spray your pans before cooking so food won't stick?
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Melissa. This Misto spritzer is great...https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/my-kitchen-essentials/#tools. I fill mine with olive oil and use it to spray my pans. Jill
Kara says
I didn't see a juicer on the list. Do you have one you would recommend? We are thinking about buying one to add some veggies to our breakfast! Thank you,
Cheryl says
Also curious about a good juicer? Can't wait to see suggestions!
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Cheryl. Here is a recommended one from the Food Babe...http://foodbabe.com/shop/for-the-kitchen/. Jill
Cheryl says
You're kidding me? Would you believe that I just ordered one yesterday on Amazon & it is the exact same one you suggested! Crazy!
Lisa says
We do not have a juicer...I would definitely recommend checking out http://foodbabe.com/ for info about juicing.
Carrie says
I've been researching different types of cookware, and was wondering if the all-clad are supposed to be 'healthier' than the cast iron,the enamel coated cast iron, or the ceramic?? There is SO much info out there it can be hard to weed out the good advice from the bad..
Assistant to 100 Days (Jill) says
Hi Carrie. In terms of cookware, you want a relatively thick pot/pan to evenly distribute the heat and to avoid hot spots. The All-Clad pots are constructed of stainless steel on the inside of the pan (what the food touches) and a few layers of aluminum on the inside and outside. I'm not that familiar with the others...I just try and avoid the coated ones. Hope that helps. Jill
Meg says
Hi there-- I LOVE your blog. You are a great Mom, Lisa, and have really inspired me. What do you use your food processor for on a regular basis? I have a mini chopper but am considering getting a big one for Christmas. I make a batch of your larabars each week so I definitely could see using it for that, as well as shredding cheese.
Jason Leake with 100 Days of Real Food says
Hi Meg - Thanks for the kind words. We use the large food processor mainly for things like pesto, pizza dough, pasta dough, power balls, lara bars, grating cheese, and grating potatoes (if we are making a lot, like for potato pancakes). Hope that helps!
Ruth says
The kitchen aid comes with a shredding attachment which I've used for cheese and carrots. The dough hook makes bread, buns, cinnamon buns, and pizza dough easy. I've been cooking "real food" for 33 years and can't see any reason to buy a food processor as well. Takes up too much space, and let's be honest, consumerism is a bad habit worth breaking too, just like the processed food habit :)
Kare says
What kind of sunflower butter does Lisa buy? I've only tried the Trader Joe's one, but wondered if she had a preference...to try.
Lisa says
I also buy the Trader Joe's brand...not ideal in my opinion, but it's hard to find one that meets all the criteria: organic, no added sugar, and nut-free factory.
Jason Leake with 100 Days of Real Food says
Amy - High quality cookware is very important. You want a relatively thick pot/pan to evenly distribute the heat and to avoid hot spots. The All-Clad pots we have are constructed of stainless steel on the inside of the pan (what the food touches) and a few layers of aluminum on the inside and outside. We've had our set since we got married 12 years ago and use them everyday (and love them). If I'm ever cooking on vacation I get frustrated with the low quality cookware common in rentals! Like anything else, sure you can get by with lower quality, but for something you use so much it's worth the investment if you are able. There may be cheaper quality options (I don't know), but we bought on reputation and this is what we have experience with. Hope that helps a little.