HAPPY HOLIDAYS! We can’t believe the holiday season is upon us! We’ve all started to prep and plan for this exciting time of the year, and we’d like to help you do the same. Read on for some of our favorite tips on staying organized during this busy time of year. Our holiday giveaway is sure to help you stay organized during the season so be sure to check it out! As always, we’ve also included product information and savings on some of your favorite natural and organic products. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season! The Mambo Team
10 Keys to Getting Organized for the Holidays.....................4 Coconut “Butter”—A New Frontier...............................................6 Holiday Snacking Made Simple......................................................8 Comfort Gourmet..............................................................................9 Indulge in a Gluten Free Treat......................................................10 Water Rx.............................................................................................. 11 Say NO to GMO’s.............................................................................12 Energy to Spare................................................................................ 13 Gourmet-Eco Soups....................................................................... 14 Ready, Set, Wash!............................................................................ 15 E-Coupons..........................................................................................16 What’s in Mambo’s Shopping Cart?............................................18
10 Keys to Getting Organized for the Holidays
The winter holidays are nearly upon us. Will you be ready for them? With so much celebrating compressed between Thanksgiving and New Years, the degree to which you plan ahead can significantly shape your experience. These 10 keys can help:
Decide on your level of participation Some people completely throw themselves into the holidays; others prefer to keep things simple. Deciding in advance how much you can take on this year will greatly protect you from last minute pressures.
Set the expectation Once you clarify your vision, talk with loved ones. Figure out who will host holiday meals. Bringing a side dish and/or bottle of wine may be more manageable for you this year. If you want to simplify in other areas, be sure others know for their own planning.
Make a list When you’re organized, the weeks leading up to the holidays will be far less chaotic. Start by listing everything that needs to be accomplished between now and New Years Eve. This will help you stay focused on your planning as festivities approach.
Set your budget What do you want to spend on gifts, food, entertainment, etc.? Deciding early on will help you stay within your means. You might even set up a holiday account rather than running up credit cards as many families do. Post-holiday debt can be stressful.
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Calendar all holiday events You may need to create a shared holiday calendar when you’re juggling multiple schedules. What parties and events are important to you? While you can’t attend everything, setting your priorities as a family will help prevent calendar conflicts.
Take action on holiday cards If you send holiday cards, that’s an easy item to handle in advance. First, update your mailing list, then decide on cards, photo montage, a detailed letter— whatever you prefer. You can order cards now, and even have them addressed and stamped by Dec. 1st.
Decide on entertaining If you plan on hosting family for holiday meals, there are many ways you can plan ahead. Will you hold an open house, dinner or holiday party? If so, begin a separate party “to do” list: what you’ll serve, who will bring additional items, what dishes/ stemware you’ll need, etc.
Sort out the gift issue Do you plan to buy presents for your kids, your entire family, friends, teachers, or business associates? Remember, sometimes less is more. Keeping it simple is better for many families—and easier on the budget too. A shared café latte, hug, smile, holiday card, or heartfelt well-wish are precious gifts too!
Consider holiday meals If you decide to host a holiday meal, why prepare every dish? Guests enjoy contributing too, and everyone can cook, bake, or buy something. Determine what you can do and delegate from there to ensure your entrée, side dishes, condiments, wine/champagne, and desserts are covered.
Give the gift of self care While smart advance planning lightens your load, it’s still a very intense couple of months, and some people run themselves ragged. Strike a healthy balance between extending yourself to others and taking time to eat well, exercise, and rest too. The idea is to have fun and minimize stress around festivities. Getting organized helps you do so. Here’s to a fabulous holiday season!
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Coconut “Butter”— A New Frontier As Americans become more educated about “good” vs. “bad” fats, artery-clogging butter and trans fat-laden margarines are increasingly being replaced with healthy, natural alternatives by wellness conscious consumers. And with good reason— especially as we learn more about the dangers of trans fats. According to the National Academy of Sciences, while both saturated and trans fats increase your levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, trans fats also reduce HDL (“good”) cholesterol, thus increasing the risk of coronary heart disease. Fortunately, healthy, high-quality butter alternatives have come to the rescue, such as olive oil and soy-based spreads. However, the newest and most innovative of these wellness-promoting options is made from coconut oil. Unlike many fats, this unique oil—rich in lauric acid—is actually good for you. Lauric acid is a medium chain fatty acid that’s not easily oxidized, so it’s less likely to cause free radical damage than other oils, according to a 2006 study in the Ceylon Medical Journal. Also, coconut oil is absorbed directly from the small intestine to the liver where it is immediately converted into usable energy. Not only is it healthier than saturated fats in animal products like meat, milk, and eggs, coconut oil may also reduce your risk of arteriosclerosis and heart disease. A study in the journal Clinical Biochemistry revealed that it can help lower total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while increasing HDL (“good”) cholesterol, due to its biologically active polyphenol—antioxidant—components.
Also, because medium chain fatty acids like
lauric acid don’t easily degrade, coconut oil
is stable enough to resist heat-induced deterioration during cooking and baking, 6
unlike other oils which undergo oxidative damage when brought to high temperatures due to their chemical structure. So what do coconut oil and Earth Balance® have in common? Well, this visionary company—based in Boulder, Colorado—has just produced a delicious new coconut spread, availing us of the many benefits of coconut oil. Now you can bake, sauté, stir-fry, braise, and amaze with this creamy-smooth, “butter-busting” delight made with 40% extra virgin, organic coconut oil blended with other natural oils. This silky, versatile, coconut-oil based spread—along with all other Earth Balance products like nut butters, vegan mayonnaise, numerous healthy spreads, shortenings, and soymilk—is free of lactose, eggs and gluten. Plus it’s organic, soy-free, vegan and made without genetically modified ingredients. Kids love it too! How about trying this unique “butter” in dazzling recipes like Coconut, Oat Bran and Raisin Muffins, Gluten-Free Blueberry Scones, Vegan Pho with Coconut Ginger Broth and Pan-Seared Tofu, Coconut Samosas with Lemon Curry Mayonnaise, Pan-fried Coconut Vegetable Dumplings with Ginger Lemongrass Dipping Sauce, or Gluten-Free Chocolate Almond Butter Bars? Click Here to find these recipes and more. Additionally, Earth Balance strongly supports the Non-GMO Project and sustainable agriculture practices, promoting non-GMO advocacy, and a plant-based diet and earth-friendly lifestyle through the online social community Made Just Right™—the Earth Balance’s home for natural food lovers. Now that’s worth toasting! Visit www.EarthBalanceNatural.com
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s if holiday party planning wasn’t stressful enough, these days you have to consider the dietary restrictions of your guests, too; food allergies are
a growing public health concern with an estimated 15 million people in the U.S. suffering from food allergies. With an increasing number of your friends and family members facing unique dietary concerns—from gluten intolerance to milk, seafood and nut allergies—planning a delicious, healthy and safe seasonal menu can be tricky. One way to simplify pre-meal snacking is to pick up some Crunchmaster® Crackers. Several of the brand’s delicious varieties, including the popular Sea Salt Multi-Grain, are free from eight major allergens and are all certified gluten-free. Crunchmaster’s Multi-Grain and Multi-Seed Crackers are oven baked to a light, crispy perfection so they’re saturated fat and cholesterol-free. And with a blend of whole grain brown rice, stone-ground corn, oat fiber and a 4-seed blend, the Multi-Grain varieties are also a great source of fiber and contain a whopping 22g of whole grains per serving. Pair them with your favorite artisanal cheese or a tasty gourmet dip then let the stress-free and tasty times roll. Visit www.crunchmaster.com
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F
eel the chill? It’s soup season! When the cold sets in, comfort foods beckon— especially when they’re delicious, healthy, soothing and quick to prepare. For
both casual and formal family meals, look to Pacific Natural Foods’ full line of luscious soups, hearty chowders and silky bisques. A satisfying entrée on their own, served over rice or noodles, or paired with your favorite sandwich, these all-natural, organic, ready-to-eat soups are the perfect meal solution. Nutrient-packed soups also add to your daily veggie intake! As the holidays approach, how about incorporating a soup starter course to add both flavor and flair to festive meals? Guests will love the elegant touch, and you’ll appreciate the simplicity. Before serving, crown soup bowls with a garnish of fresh basil, parsley, sliced green onions, or whole grain croutons. All of Pacific’s soups, chowders and bisques come in easy-to-open, environmentally friendly cartons from Tetra Pak that lock in their fresh flavors and allow you to easily reclose and store leftovers—if there are any! Enjoy 15 sumptuous, gourmet variations like Cashew Carrot Ginger, Classic Chicken Noodle, Poblano Pepper & Corn Chowder, Minestrone with Chicken Meatballs, Roasted Garlic & Mushroom, Chipotle Sweet Potato and more. Mmmmm—soup for the soul! Visit www.pacificfoods.com
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re you gluten-intolerant? Many people are, but don’t realize it. Gluten is the protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley, spelt, and kamut. Did you
know that the average American consumes up to 150 pounds of wheat annually? Despite our national obsession with bread, baked goods and pasta, not everyone can digest these gluten-heavy foods. Gluten is linked not only to celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting 1 in 100 Americans, but also to non-celiac gluten intolerance, which affects millions more. Fortunately, gluten free foods are more available than ever, with some supermarkets even devoting whole sections to them. Does your favorite protein bar contain gluten? LUNA Protein is the first gluten free option from LUNA, offering a tasty, convenient way to meet your daily protein needs. With 12g of nourishing protein and 3g of filling fiber, LUNA Protein tides you over perfectly between meals, curbing your hunger and helping to prevent high calorie/high fat/sugary snack cravings. LUNA Protein also comes through with the vitamins and minerals women need most, including iron, calcium, folic acid and vitamin D. Fully satisfying and entirely natural—all for less than 200 calories. So indulge in the nougaty, chocolate decadence of LUNA Protein. Visit www.lunabar.com
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our body is about 60 to 70 percent water. All of your major organs rely on H2O to regulate body temperature, protect your joints, and carry nutrients to your
organs and tissues. You also need water to transport oxygen to your cells and remove waste and toxins from the body. In summary: Water is extremely important for whole body health. The amount of water you need each day depends on how active you are and how much you weigh, but experts recommend downing at least eight glasses of water to keep your body functioning at its peak. Not all water is created equal: Depending on the source, water can contain additives that are either harmful (such as chlorine and lead) or healthy (like higher levels of key minerals). Jana is premium artesian water from Europe that’s perfectly balanced, the way nature intended. Untouched by man for 7,000 years and bottled at the source, Jana offers a balanced ratio of beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium and silica for health benefits not provided by tap water. Jana’s 7.4 pH value—the same as the human body—and low sodium content, along with its natural mineral composition helps the body with cellular absorption so you are getting the benefits of both hydration and minerals; making Jana an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Water for life! Visit www.janawater.com
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hat are GMO’s? Genetically Modified Organisms are defined as those “… made with techniques that alter the molecular or cell biology of an
organism by means that are not possible under natural conditions or processes.” As such, GMO’s may contain substances that have never been part of the human food supply. The possible impact of new GM foods includes: • Increased application of pesticides on GMO crops • Possible creation of “Super” weeds or diseases that do not respond to current countermeasures which could devastate future crops • Unknown impact on ecosystems—including insects and neighboring crops The governments of at least 30 countries do not consider GMO’s to be safe and require labeling on packaging. Contrary to that, the US government approved GMO crops for commercial use based on safety studies conducted by the same companies who developed the organisms! Woodstock™ supports the right to know. Twenty-five years ago, they began selling natural and organic foods with the belief that good food came from simple ingredients, farmed from sources you could trust. Since GMO’s pose a threat to humans, animals and our environmental health they are proud that all their Woodstock Frozen Vegetables are Non-GMO Project Verified and carry the seal on their packaging. Vegetables you can trust! To learn more, visit www.woodstock-foods.com 12
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uring the holidays, life can take you any number of places: Family visits out of town; the packed malls and grocery stores; countless festive parties and
events; even on ski trips, winter hikes or snowshoeing adventures. No matter where the road takes you, though, you’ll need plenty of energy to fuel the ride. Keep your energy levels high by getting plenty of sleep each night (at least 7 hours, according to the experts), going outside for some sun and fresh air each day (sunlight entering the eyes releases serotonin to boost your mood, while crisp air can feel invigorating), and exercising as often as possible to rev up your metabolism. The right foods can also give you an energy boost when you need it most. Active people require a balance of carbohydrates, protein and fiber to keep them going. CLIF ® BARS can help by supplying working muscles with the energy they need, without creating a “sugar crash.” Each delicious bar is made with wholesome, organic ingredients, contains 23 vitamins and minerals and no trans fats. They’re also a great source of protein and fiber. Stash a bar in your hiking pack, snowboarding jacket pocket or your gym bag for on the go nutrition powerful enough to sustain all of your seasonal adventures. Visit www.clifbar.com
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ith winter setting in, few meals comfort like hot, flavor-packed soup. So, when is this nourishment in a bowl good for the earth as well? When it’s
certified organic and 100% plant-based! Now you can have your soup and feel great about it too. Fig Food Company offers a creative array of organic, kosher, 100% plant-based soups in easy-to-open, environmentally friendly cartons from Tetra Pak. Did you know that organic agriculture requires 19% less energy than conventional agriculture for comparable production? Eating more plant-based foods like veggies, beans and whole grains does more than enhance your health. It also helps reduce greenhouse gases and improve the environment, since current animal agricultural practices are responsible for 18% of total greenhouse gas emissions—more than the entire transportation industry! Sustainable gourmet is a snap with these scrumptious soups, which include nine ready-to-eat varieties and three condensed versions—each containing only 200-260 sodium grams per serving. Fig soup ingredients are sourced primarily from North American farmers, with tempting flavors like Tuscan White Bean, Yucatan Black Bean, Umbrian Lentil, Nonna’s Minestrone, Chickpea, Tomato & Thyme, Mexican Bean & Rice, and Split Pea and Potato. Enjoy goodness in a bowl—for you and the earth. Visit www.figfood.com
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old and flu season is upon us. Besides getting a flu shot and stocking up on tissues, there are plenty of ways you can prevent the spread of sickness this
winter. Perhaps the most important is hand washing. As your hands come in contact with surfaces, objects and other people throughout the day, they pick up and spread germs. When done properly, washing your hands regularly can help keep those germs from migrating to your eyes, mouth or nose. Just make sure you wash up several times each day, especially before eating and after blowing your nose. One unfortunate side effect of all that washing up: dry, chapped hands. If your digits are feeling itchy and uncomfortable, your soap could be to blame. Look for a hand soap that moisturizes while it cleans, to prevent drying. Antibacterial soaps are also unnecessary, as warm water and at least 20 seconds of sudsing is just as effective. And be sure to choose a soap that’s free of harsh chemicals and detergents. Kiss My Face® Moisture Soaps meet all of these criteria, plus they’re naturally based, so they’re gentler on the skin as well as the planet. Keep on washing and your hands will stay kissably soft and germ-free all winter. Visit www.kissmyface.com
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Coupons available for a limited time only.
1
1
$
$1.00 off
$
$1.00 off
Frontier
Kiss My Face
any ONE (1) Frontier Natural Products Co-Op Bottled Spice or Baking Extract
any ONE (1) Kiss My Face Moisture Hand Soap
1
$
$1.00 off
$1.00 off
Crunchmaster® Crackers
Fig FoodTM
any THREE (3) Fig Food™ Soups or Beans
75¢ off
1
$
any ONE (1) Bag or Box of Crunchmaster® Crackers
75¢
50¢ off
Jana
Luna®
any ONE (1) 1.5L or 1L bottle of Jana Water
50¢
any ONE (1) LUNA® or LUNA® Protein Bar
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Coupons available for a limited time only.
1
1
$
$
$1.00 off
$1.00 off
any ONE (1) R.W. Knudsen Family 32 oz. Just Juice
any ONE (1) Earth Balance Organic Coconut Spread
Earth Balance
R.W. Knudsen
1
$
1
$
$1.00 off
$1.00 off
Pacific Natural Foods
WoodstockTM any ONE (1) WoodstockTM Frozen Vegetables
any ONE (1) Pacific Natural Foods 17.6 oz. or 12 oz. Soup
1
1
$
$
$1.00 off
$1.00 off
any THREE (3) CLIF速 Bar Energy Bars
any ONE (1) Zevia All Natural Soda 6-pack
CLIF速 Bar
Zevia
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Back to Basics Organics have become “mainstream,” says the USDA, with most Americans using them at least occasionally. But what about organic products that don’t live up to their name? Simply Organic offers healthy, wholesome, organic products—spices’, baking extracts and mixes, seasoning packets and more—you can trust. As part of its vision, Simply Organic is committed to integrity, from field to shelf— just look for the USDA Organic logo on every Simply Organic label. Now that’s the real deal! simplyorganic.com
Festive, Fruit-Filled Feasts Holiday get-togethers typically put food front and center. For the best flavor, it’s important to cook with healthy, whole foods. The Just Juice line from R. W. Knudsen Family makes it easy to add zing to any sauce recipe or sweetness and color to plain sparkling water. Each Just Juice variety—including Black Cherry, Blueberry and Cranberry—is a singlefruit, unsweetened, 100% juice that’s ideal for cooking or sipping. It’s sure to make your food shine. rwknudsenfamily.com
Taste that Makes a Difference It feels great to give to organizations that do well around the globe. The same goes for supporting companies that are committed to social responsibility. When you buy Frontier Seasonings, you can count on great taste that will make a difference in your recipes—and in the world. While Frontier is passionate about flavor, it’s equally dedicated to its Well Earth™ program, which helps small organic farmers make a positive impact in their communities. Your dollars make a difference. frontiercoop.com com/wellearth
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Cheers to the Holidays! Mambo Sprouts loves the holiday season; the music, the family gatherings, the wrapping and of course the gift giving! To celebrate this holiday season we want to help you wrap your gifts in style and stay organized while doing it! We want to know what you would like to see from Mambo in 2012. Click on the link below and answer a few questions to be entered to win an organizer chock full of bows, gift tags, and wrapping paper for those special occasions! Don’t delay contest ends December 5th!
Enter to Win *Winner will be selected at random.
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