July 11, 2025

3 Fresh & Healthy Summer Desserts (Refined Sugar-Free!) to Savor the Season

July 11, 2025/ Margot Rutigliano

Summer is a season of sunshine, celebration, and connection. It’s often the time when we linger around tables, share meals outdoors, and indulge in life’s little joys. Dessert included.

We know many of our retreat guests, clients, and readers are also mindful of their health and what they eat. The great thing is that you don’t have to miss out on the sweet treats of the season. They can be added in a moderated way that work for both your tastebuds and your wellness goals.

March 26, 2019

Oat Maple Breakfast Bars

March 26, 2019/ Margot Rutigliano

Did you ever love the Nature Valley Oats N’ Honey Granola Bars? I still do! I’m definitely guilty of eating them on occasion and I love the taste. Plus, I love something crunchy in the morning and they definitely provide that. They’re easy and convenient and if I’m in a rush, they’re a quick and easy solution for breakfast.

While they don’t have a ton of ingredients (which is surprising), I still don’t love that they have sugar, honey and brown sugar syrup plus natural flavors (oh – and soy lecithin). I try to keep my food pretty clean and even if you’re not super concerned with food, a natural alternative is always a better one for health.

March 22, 2019

Banana Bread: Gluten Free and Refined Sugar Free

March 22, 2019/ Margot Rutigliano

Mmm…I love banana bread! It’s warm and delicious and reminds me of growing up. I love bananas in general so it’s no wonder that I love banana bread. Bananas are one of those food items that tend to go ripe really quick. How many times have you had left over bananas and let them go to waste? I am guilty as charged! But this time, I decided to put those bananas to good use and made a delicious gluten free banana bread.