Some time ago I caught wind of some very exciting news: Veggie Grill was going to open in Santa Monica! I was thrilled because it not only meant that one of my favorite vegan restaurants would be closer to my apartment, but all of my friends in the area would be able to experience it. Veggie Grill is always on the top of my list to recommend to people who want to try vegan food, and having another location makes it that much easier to suggest. Therefore, when I was invited to preview the new location last night I jumped at the opportunity, and it was wonderful.

I often receive questions from readers via email and I love them - keep 'em coming! Here is a recent question and my answer.

Question: 

"I was hoping you may have some advice for my friend. She recently was told that for two weeks to a month she has to be completely gluten-free, yeast-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free to cleanse her body because she developed a yeast infection in her intestines. That means she cannot have her usual fruit, oatmeal and whole-grain breads, so pretty much she is at a loss for what to eat. She is also taking a host of herbal remedies and acidophilus, but I thought I would try to help as much as possible and do research and ask others for some help. If you have any information or suggestions that may help her, I would so greatly appreciate it."

I recently made a big batch of almond milk, purchased a papaya because of claims that it aids digestion, and was given some peaches: so I decided to blend them all together and it resulted in a delicious, lightly sweet smoothie. Give it a try!