Coming out this September is Thrive Foods: 200 Plant-Based Recipes for Peak Health, although it is available in Canada currently (it was released in May). Having read other works by Brendan – such as the 2007 book Thrive: The Vegan Nutrition Guide to Optimal Performance in Sports and Life (previously sold as The Thrive Diet: The Whole Food Way to Lose Weight, Reduce Stress, and Stay Healthy for Life ) I was happy to have the chance to read a review copy of it.

The book is a mix of why a plant-based diet is healthier for us as humans and to the Earth and recipes – 200 of them, ranging from drinks, soups, salads, entrees – some being raw, some cooked. It also features a couple great recipes for making “Sport gels” – you know those overpriced packets you see at REI and running stores? Those, just healthier and custom-made. It was neat reading it, the recipes are designed to be mixed and then put into a 2-ounce gel flask (which are sold at yes, REI and running stores!).

Cocoa Energy Gel (page 275)

Ingredients:

• 2 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 1 Tbsp agave nectar (raw preferably)
• 1 Tbsp ground chia seed
• 1 Tbsp coconut oil (preferably virgin unrefined)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp cocoa nibs
• Sea salt, to taste

Directions:

Blend all the ingredients together into a gel-like consistency.

For an extra kick, add 1 tsp of ground yerba maté.

Notes: A powerful blender will do the recipe best. Stash the prepared mix into a 2-ounce gel flask and use soon after. Medjool dates can be found in the produce department and very economically at Costco. Chia seeds can be found through Amazon and grind in a clean coffee grinder or spice mill.

~Sarah

FTC Disclaimer: I received a preview copy of this book for potential review.