How to Avoid a Heart Attack at the SuperBowl February 6, 2010
Posted by beccas90 in exercise, fitness, health, healthy-foods.Tags: superbowl
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Exciting events such as Superbowl or World Cup can cause stress on your cardiovascular system to the extent if you’ve a diseased heart you could suffer an attack.
You can read the studies and research behind this at an article posted here. However, the reason for this post today is not just because I’m writing it one day before the Superbowl but because the person who wrote the article is Dr Al Sears, who is an expert in the cardio field and has written a lot of books on the subject.
One of those books has just been released and he has earmarked the Superbowl to send out his message of a different type of exercising to the Superbowl fan base. You can read all about his PACE 12 Minute Fitness program here. But back to how to avoid a heart attack while watching the Superbowl or other major sporting events.
1. Do some activity before the game and at breaks. Stretch out, go outside if you can and do a few sprints or a short aerobic workout – no more than 5 minutes and this should be at a relaxing pace.
2. Watch what you eat for snacks – go for healthy ones like vegetables, or nuts and sunflower seeds.
3. Assume the ref will make a few bad calls and don’t let it anger and over excite you.
4. Avoid alcohol and tobacco or do it in moderation – excessive consumption of these two deadly chemicals is a frequent cause of cardiac arrest.
5. Don’t gamble on the outcome if the loss would cause you hardship as this will send you into worry mode, and again cause undue stress on your heart.
The article by Dr Sears at the link above covers these in more details and includes 10 in all. It’s worth a read anyway.
Having an ongoing exercise program you’re following makes sense for anybody who wants to avoid heart attacks, but make sure it’s the type that’ll strengthen your heart and not weaken it. A program like the PACE Fitness Revolution is such a program and worth checking out – I know it’s working for me and Samantha and we’ll both be watching the Superbowl with our hubbies and families.
Go… whatever team you’re rooting for!
Becca
What to Look for in a Weight Loss Program February 3, 2010
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, exercise, healthy-foods.Tags: weight loss
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A weight loss plan should include diet and exercise but finding a safe and successful weight loss exercise program that is right for you can be a challenge.
Here we look at some important points for you to consider as you start down this new path in your life.
According to the experts, the key to getting yourself to a healthy weight and staying there is to eat a sensible, nutritious and well balanced diet and to engage in physical activity on a consistent basis. You need to customize your weight loss exercise program in such a way that you will lose weight but you will also be able to maintain the weight loss afterwards. This means incorporating healthy habits into your current lifestyle.
So then how do you know what to look for in a program? Always think safe, healthy and effective. There are an array of elements that go into finding the proper exercise and weight loss program. They include:
- A diet that is healthy and will ensure that you are receiving the correct quantity of vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Also a diet that puts emphasis on the reduction of calories. At the same time it is important to realize that it is not healthy to cut out any of the essential food groups. The body likes variety and it requires it in order to remain healthy. To lose weight you need to cut back but you should not deprive yourself.
- Exercising on a regular basis is important. It is recommended that you get some form of exercise at least three to four times a week . If you have time to squeeze in some physical fitness every day then that is even better for your weight and your overall level of health. Lately I’ve been following a new program by Dr. Al Sears and which is an ideal exercise for weight loss and fitness program.
- The culture you live in plays a role in your weight loss program. Keep your cultural considerations in mind when it comes to making changes with your health.
- Behavior modification plays a role in successful weight loss. You need to figure out what has caused you to consume more calories than you should. Do you eat when you are feeling unhappy, bored, lonely or sad? Uncovering your own unique eating triggers is very important to your success at losing weight and keeping it off. You can’t say no to food until you first can recognize why you are always saying yes. If this is something you cannot accomplish on your own you would do well to see a therapist who specializes in the area of weight loss.
- If you have any kind of medical problems you should schedule an appointment with your physician before you start taking part in a weight loss plan. This is also the case if you plan to follow any type of special formula diet.
Losing weight, eating healthy and exercising is all closely tied into one another. Once you get yourself into a program that is suitable for you the key is to take responsibility for what you do and put all of your efforts and dedication into making it work.
Have a healthy day,
Samantha
Excersie for Weight Loss – Push Aside the Myths January 31, 2010
Posted by smnthng35 in exercise, fitness, health.Tags: weight loss
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It’s estimated 64% of American’s are overweight. That’s about 129.6 million people and there are many myths when it comes to exercise for weight loss. Often it is difficult to separate the truths from the myths.
Here we do our best to do just that. Read on.
Is there such a thing as area specific weight loss?
If you have a few pounds that you would like to lose on your stomach or if you have love handles, when you decide to make an effort to lose weight you will not automatically lose weight off those areas of the body. Sorry to disappoint you! The body decides where it will drop the weight from. This is something no one has any control over. Make your aim just to lose weight.
If a little exercise is good then a lot must be better:
This is not the case. If you have been inactive for a considerable period of time and you suddenly start engaging in too much physical activity such as running, swimming, doing aerobics, cycling, etc. you could do harm to your body. You must start slowly and work up to more vigorous activity. Prepare your body for what is to come by being gentle. In particular, doing too much can be detrimental to the joints. The extra weight you are carrying can add to the problem.
Resistance training and toning are not appropriate for those who want to lose weight:
Toning and resistance training are for everyone, not just those who are already in good to excellent shape. Resistance training, such as working with weights, gym machines and resistance bands increases your muscles mass. This in turn strengthens your bones. This will help you to drop the weight sooner and look more toned at a faster rate than if you simply did a form of aerobic exercise. Muscle burns more calories than fat which means that in effect you burn calories more rapidly when you do resistance training.
Weight can be lost easily and quickly:
Trying to lose weight quickly is dangerous for your health. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise. A diet that is so restrictive that it causes the body to drop pounds very quickly is not good for you in any way. Avoid these kinds of destructive diets! Instead aim for a slow to gradual weight loss of one to two pounds per week. This is safe and healthy. Patience plays a role in weight loss after all.
Once I reach my goal weight, I can go back to eating like I did before:
No, unfortunately you cannot. The goal here is not to lose weight but to make healthy dietary changes that will allow you to lose the weight and keep it off. The smaller your body is, the fewer calories you need to take in to satisfy it. Once you institute healthy changes to your diet, you need to put them into play- for good! Think healthy not simply slim.
There are many exercise for weight loss programs but look for ones that don’t focus on melting the body fat as the body just makes it back faster. Look for a program that keeps out of the fat burning zone when exercising and let’s your regular metabolism take the fatty ponds off your weight. One such program is Dr Al Sears PACE 12 minute fitness program along with his heart rate monitor wristwatch device for making sure you’re following an exercise for weight loss program correctly.
Samantha
PACE: The 12-Minute Fitness Revolution – What Just Happened? January 27, 2010
Posted by beccas90 in fitness, health.Tags: exercise, weight loss
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If the holidays just happened to your weight in a bad way then get back on track with the PACE: 12-Minute Fitness Revolution program from Dr Al Sears.
Any weight loss program should include an exercise component but many people go over board in trying to burn off fat and end up with injuries or doing workouts that actually work against them. Traditional weight loss programs that include an exercise component nearly always emphasize long session programs where you’re sweating out on a treadmill or some cardio machine for 40-minutes or longer. In fact gym trainers will tell you to stay as long as you can to burn as much fat as you can.
However, the PACE program from Dr Al Sears does not advocate doing any workout longer than 20-minutes. In fact his new program is title – The 12-Minute Fitness Revolution – and he has believed for a long time we don’t need long slow workout but short intense bursts of energy, but in progressive intervals.
Dr Sears also indicates that the way we have been exercising for years with the long aerobic and cardio workouts instead of providing us with strong lungs and heart has actually been detrimental to these vital organs. The heart especially shrinks with the long cardio workouts rather than expands.
There’s a lot more to be said on the weight loss benefits of the PACE program but rather than repeat it all here you can read all about the benefits of the PACE: The 12-Minute Fitness Revolution program here.
As we move towards Valentine’s Day – what just happened to January again? – our thoughts turn to our significant others. So I’d like to leave you with a thought for today in our fast-paced world. Do something different and out of character for your loved one this February. I don’t mean outlandish or even scary but something unexpected. Like leaving a note under the pillow for them to show how special they are. Whatever you do don’t buy it – make it with your own hands. The value we can give somebody today is our time and spending a few minutes writing a note in your own handwriting and not a Word document on a PC, says they’re special.
Just try it. You’ll feel good as well.
Samantha
Keeping the Extra Pounds Off During the Festive Season December 19, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, exercise, health.Tags: weight
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Are you one of those people who maintain a steady weight throughout the year but then put on extra pounds once Christmas arrives in all of its splendor?
Perhaps your weakness is too much eggnog, or the sauce that accompanies the shrimp cocktails? Or maybe your eyes widen a little too much and your mouth begins to water whenever you see cookies in the shape of Santa Clauses decorated with red sprinkles?
Let’s be honest, the festive season is a wonderful time of the year for giving and for spending time with family and close friends. It is also a time for parties and overindulgence in food and drink. If the thought of an office Christmas party or a gathering among friends or loved ones has you worrying about going up a pant size then you need to learn ways to have fun but not take in too many calories. Read on for some ways to maintain your weight during the season of being merry!
When it comes to eating during the holidays, overeating is often par for the course. It is also not uncommon for people to eat foods that they might not be inclined to eat as much of at other times of the year. In avoid to prevent yourself from over consuming and taking in too many unwanted calories at a party or when going to someone’s house for a Christmas meal, eat a healthy snack beforehand. Arriving on an empty stomach is a recipe for an overconsumption disaster!
It is especially difficult to pass up food when it is brought around on trays or when it sits looking so appetizing on a buffet table. Look for snacks that are low in fat. Some examples of these include a selection of tasty fruit, rice crackers, pretzels and fat free biscuits. If you are a dipper at heart then look to a delicious and low fat dip such as ricotta cheese mixed with a sweet chili sauce.
Be wary of dipping too much however. Sometimes it is not the food at parties that is fattening and full of calories but the dips and sauces that are in accompaniment to them. For example shrimp is often served at Christmas celebrations. Shrimp on its own is not fattening but when you start dipping it the caloric count begins to rise.
Do not forget about the liquid calories you consume at this festive time of the year as well. A cosmopolitan in all of its glory is full of calories. Three ounces will have you consuming 179 calories. Compare that to a six ounce mimosa which comes in at 105 calories. Eggnog is one of the worst fat offenders- a half cup is equal to 186 calories. Mixed drinks are particularly high in calories as are anything that contains an abundance of sugar. Instead of Grand Marnier or Crème de Menthe, choose spiced tea (with a smidgen of rum) or mineral water.
Enjoy the holidays!
Samantha
Understanding the Elements of a Healthy Exercise Program December 11, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in exercise, fitness, health.Tags: lifestyle
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You know that you should exercise because it is an important aspect of living a healthy lifestyle.
The question you may ask yourself however is how much exercise is enough? Is the exercise you are presently getting (or are planning to start getting) enough to fulfill the necessary requirements to keep your heart strong and your muscles in proper working order?
In order to get the necessary health benefits you need to exercise at least 30 minutes daily. Individuals who get this amount of exercise on a daily basis are afforded a greater level of protection from a selection of cancers, artery disease, hypertension, type II diabetes and depression as compared to those who live a very couch potato like existence. Bear in mind however that 30 minutes is the bare minimum- the more you get the better for your health and your overall sense of well-being!
Get F.I.T. Today
When you begin an exercise program you need to learn about the meaning of fit (or more to the point what the acronym F.I.T. stands for).
F= Frequency
I= Intensity
T= Time
Put them all together and you get F.I.T! This is also sometimes called the overload principle. Here is the explanation of it:
In the beginning you should do your exercises slow and not push yourself to the extreme. Ease into the program. Once you have been at it for a while and your body has adjusted then push yourself a little bit harder. Keep doing this every time you work out. This helps you to achieve the results you are seeking. It helps you to lose weight, tone up and sculpt your body. It also improves the level of fitness you are at.
Frequency is the amount of time you spend involved in physical activity. In the beginning work out two to three times a week. Intensity has to do with how much effort and energy goes into your work out. This varies tremendously from person to person! The intensity of your work out refers to how high your heart rate reaches. It can also refer to other things such as the pace with which you walk the treadmill or the track or how much weight you lift. Finally, time can be twofold- it can refer to how much time you spend working out but it can also refer to the number of repetitions involved in an individual exercise set.
Components of an Exercise Program
To get everything out of your exercise program that you need to get out of it you need to be doing three different types of exercises. These include aerobic exercise, strength training and stretching.
Aerobic exercise is a form of cardiovascular exercise because it is beneficial for the healthy functioning of the heart and the lungs. Aerobic exercise builds endurance. Examples of aerobic exercise include walking at a brisk pace, riding a bike, swimming and running.
Strength training builds muscle mass which we all tend to start losing after we pass the age of 35. Strength training involves working out with weights or resistive bands. For optimum benefit do strength training two to three times a week for a period of 25 to 30 minutes at a time.
Stretching is necessary in that it improves your flexibility and it reduces the worry over strains or injuries occurring while exercising. Stretching warms up the muscles and prepares them for what is to come. Do this before you work out and then again at the end of a work out to cool down your muscles. Do stretching exercises for a five to 10 minute period. Stretching is by far the most overlooked and under used part of a healthy exercise program but it should be utilized every time you are planning to do aerobic exercises or strength training.
Samantha
Free Writing Therapy as a Method of Relaxation December 3, 2009
Posted by beccas90 in health, wellness.Tags: free writing
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Free writing is a form of relaxation and an excellent form of therapy that you can indulged in from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
You can let your mind wander and take you to whatever happy place you want it to. If your happy place is a beach then let it take you there! If it is a pleasant childhood memory then let it take you there! Free writing gives you the permission to relax, be at peace in your personal haven and to visualize whatever positive scenario most appeals to you.
If you have never attempted free writing then you are in for a treat. Here is the technique:
The Free Writing Technique
Sit down in a comfortable chair with a pen and a pad of paper and allow your mind to wander in whatever direction it chooses. Close your eyes for a minute and revel in the mental picture that is conjured up. What do you see, feel, hear, smell and taste? Whatever it is your senses have provided you, now you can open your eyes and write it down. Anything that comes to mind that is. It doesn’t have to make any sense, nor does it have to be in sentences or even be written across the page in an orderly fashion. Just write.
Healing Writing Therapy
It is called free writing because it is all about being free. It is an excellent way to relax yourself. You are taking the time to free yourself from all worries and to do as you please. So go on, give it a try! Not only is it relaxing, free writing can also be fun to do.
Free writing is a restful and soothing activity but it is so much more than that. It is a way to help discover something new, or learn something about yourself that is buried deep in your mind. It is a portal to your innermost thoughts and feelings. Try it yourself and see what you can release in your psyche and also what insights you can glean about your inner life.
Basic Guidelines for Free Writing
Free writing follows a few basis guidelines. They are as follows:
• Write nonstop for a set period of time. For example 15 to 25 minutes is a good allotment of time. As a beginner you might want to start with 10 minutes.
• Write whatever comes into your head, no matter how strange it might seem.
• Don’t make corrections as you write as that would defeat the purpose of the exercise.
• Write even if you don’t know what to write or think you have nothing to say.
• Don’t make any judgments about what you are writing and don’t censor yourself. If something inappropriate passes through your mind, don’t hesitate to jot it down.
• Don’t cross anything out on the page. Write the new idea down but leave the old idea in place.
• Don’t concern yourself with proper spelling or punctuation and your free writing will be quicker and more fluent.
If you discover that your free writing is neat and coherent then you probably haven’t loosened up enough to grasp the logic behind the exercise. Remember that the process of free writing is what is important, not the end result. You will always be successful if you follow the guidelines listed above.
The Benefits of Free Writing
Free writing has so many benefits. The most obvious include:
• It can be a valve to release inner tensions.
• It is freeing to the psyche.
• It opens you up to explore new and special things about yourself such as your feelings, thoughts, dreams, goals, etc.
• Free writing can be fun and soothing.
Free writing can be done by anyone. You do not have to be good at writing to make this healing exercise work for you. Give it a try and see how it is done!
Becca
Good Posture is Key to Having a Healthy Spine November 18, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in health.Tags: posture, spine
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When was the last time you gave your spine or your posture the thought it deserves?
If the answer is you cannot remember when then you are in a close knit group. Very few people give their spine, much less their posture any thought at all. We often forget that posture plays an integral role in keeping the body balanced and well aligned.
Bad posture can occur very easily without realizing what you are doing. It is not until you begin to experience back aches, shoulder pains or muscle aches that you will realize that you are hunching, slouching or simply letting your body get into whatever position it wants to get into.
Bad posture is a bad habit that anyone can fall into. Good posture is something that you must make an effort to maintain. Having the best posture possible is good news for your spine in every way. When you stand tall in the proper way that nature intended you will look and feel more self-confident and your overall sense of well-being will be improved upon. Try it and see!
The Picture of Good Posture
What does good posture look like? The body is straight but it is not supposed to be robotic. It needs to line up properly and look relaxed as it does so. This means that your ears, your shoulders, your hips, your knees and your ankles are all supposed to align in such a way that they look like they fall into one fluid line.
A person who exhibits good posture is said to have musculoskeletal balance. This means that all of their muscles and bones are aligned correctly. When this balance occurs it lends itself to a healthier body because the joints of the spine are protected from a great deal of undue stress and strain.
Good posture fosters the best of relations with the back because they work in tandem with one another. Having excellent posture can also protect you from many injuries and in some cases will prevent the onset of spinal deformities.
To take care of your spine and everything that is attached to it you need to learn what proper posture is and then you need to practice it every day. Practice makes perfect after all! You also need to learn not just how to stand properly to reduce stress on your back but also how to sit properly and even the best positions for sleeping.
As if you needed another reason to exercise more, here is another one- regular physical activity makes it possible for your joints and muscles to be flexible. The more flexible they are, the less chance that they will fall victim to injuries because they will have a high level of mobility. This also lends your spinal column a helping hand in being healthy.
Good posture is not difficult to achieve. All it takes is some awareness of where you are on the posture perfect scale and some honest-to-goodness effort!
For more information and insights on good posture please visit these websites:
http://thinksimplenow.com/health/dont-break-your-back-tips-to-healthy-posture/
http://www.bodyworkbiz.com/booklets/Posturex.pdf
Samantha
Getting Acquainted with Your Fat Friends (and Foes) November 12, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, health.Tags: Monounsaturated fat, Polyunsaturated fat, Saturated fat, T rans fat
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Whether fat is your friend or foe, the better acquainted you are with each type, the better off you will be health wise.
Let’s face it, fat is a part of life. There is good fat and there is bad fat. Fat adds more flavor to food and that is what makes it so appealing to the taste buds. But fat has many negative points that can wreck havoc on your efforts to stay healthy and be slim and trim.
Let’s take the time to get better acquainted with fat, shall we? The more you know about fat the better able you will be to make the right food choices. Fat can be broken down into four different types. These include:
• Monounsaturated fat (good)
• Polyunsaturated fat (good)
• Saturated fat (bad)
• Trans fat (bad)
Monounsaturated fats are healthy fats that are associated with a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. These fats when at room temperature are in liquid form but they turn a cloudy consistency when put in the refrigerator. Plant oils such as canola oil, olive oil and peanut oil are some of the most common sources of monounsaturated fat. Other sources include avocados, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds and nuts (such as almonds, hazel nuts and pecans).
Polyunsaturated fats are composed of essential fatty acids called the omega-3’s. You have likely heard of omega-3 before. The body cannot make omega-3 on its own and that is where this unique kind of fat comes into play. Polyunsaturated fats can be found in fish, flax seed, flax seed oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil and walnuts. Polyunsaturated fats remain liquids both at room temperature and in colder temperatures.
Now we turn to the flip side and look at those sneaky and not-so-nice bad fats …
Saturated fat increases the body’s low-density lipoprotein level (LDL). This is what most of us know as bad cholesterol. Having bad cholesterol means having too high a percentage of it in relation to good cholesterol (HDL). This increases your chances of failing victim to a heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases. The primary sources of saturated fat are red meat, whole milk dairy products and tropical vegetable oils (such as coconut oil and palm oil). The less you consume of these food items the better it is for your health.
Trans fat has gotten a lot of media attention in the past year or so. While trans fat does all of the same unhealthy deeds as saturated fat does, it takes things up a notch and actually lowers the amount of good cholesterol (HDL) in your system making you more vulnerable to a plethora of heart problems.
If you wonder how trans fats come into being then here is the skinny on it in brief: Trans fats are created by way of the hydrogenation process. Liquid vegetable oils are heated while in the presence of hydrogen gas. This process is done to preserve the shelf life of food items. This makes it beneficial for the manufacturers in terms of cost but not good for the individual who consumes these partially hydrogenated products.
The main sources of trans fats include vegetable shortenings, lard, and many types of margarines, cookies, crackers, fried foods, snack foods, baked goods and candies. There are many processed foods that are made with partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. If you see the word “hydrogenated” anywhere on the product label then run don’t walk away from it!
Now that you can separate good fats from bad fats you know which one is truly a fat friend and which one is a fat foe! Telling the difference can do your heart a tremendous service both for today and into your future.
Samantha
The Healthy Side of Being a Peanut Eater November 6, 2009
Posted by beccas90 in healthy-foods.Tags: flaxseed oil, peanuts
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As long as you’re not allergic to peanuts they can boast some health benefits that are worth becoming familiar with.
Peanuts are part of the legume family which also includes a selection of beans and peas. They are a crop that grows annually and look very much like a clover plant as they are growing. While most of us think of peanuts to be nuts (the word “nut” is in the word after all!) they are actually legume seeds.
Peanuts Equal Protein (and Other Good Things)
Whole peanuts are beneficial to the human body because they are a rich source of protein. To use an example, for every 100 gram serving of peanuts there is 25 grams of protein. They are also a tremendous source of energy for the body.
There is good and bad fat in peanuts. Approximately half of the fat contained in peanuts is monounsaturated (the good kind) while a third is polyunsaturated fat. On the negative side, approximately a fifth of the fat is the bad kind- saturated fat. The polyunsaturated fat consists of a small percentage of omega-3 which the body needs. When buying peanut butter read the labels closely. Some kinds are fortified with omega-3 because they contain flaxseed oil. This is a good thing because it means that there is a good balance between the omega-3 fatty acids and the omega-6’s.
Studies have shown that peanuts are a good source of niacin (otherwise known as vitamin B3). This vitamin is effective at raising the level of good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. Peanuts are also a good source of vitamin E and are abundant in antioxidants which mean that they do a good job in fighting illnesses, infections and diseases.
Peanuts and nuts in general contain a bioflavonoid known as reservatrol. Red wine and grapes contain the same healthy substance. Reservatrol slows down the aging process and it discourages plaque to build up in the arteries. Peanuts contain a higher percentage of reservatrol than grapes do. A small handful of peanuts (or what amounts to a one ounce serving) will provide you with nine percent of the fiber that you require on a daily basis. Research studies have also found that consuming small amounts of peanuts or peanut butter regularly can reduce the bad cholesterol (LDL) in your blood by as much as 14 percent.
Peanut Allergy Concerns
It is an unfortunate reality that there are some individuals who are allergic to peanuts and any kind of peanut product. Consuming even a small helping of peanuts can give rise to a severe allergic reaction in these individuals. Some people suffer from it to the point where exposure to peanuts could send them into anaphylactic shock. This can be fatal if not treated immediately. This is why individuals who suffer from such an allergy must take great care not to come into contact with peanuts in any manner.
Allergies to peanuts are largely a mystery to the medical community. Some people outgrow an allergy to peanuts while others will have to live with it for the duration of their lives. It has been theorized that the processing of peanuts is done differently in North America than it is in other parts in the world such as China or India. In these countries peanut allergies are practically unheard of while they are common in both Canada and the United States. Studies in this area are ongoing as no conclusive findings related to peanut allergies have been found to date.
Whether you love them or hate them or are on the fence about them, peanuts are good for your body. As long as you do not suffer from an allergy to them, enjoy peanuts in small quantities. Be mindful of their fat content and choose salt free varieties whenever possible.
Becca
What is a Multivitamin and How can it Benefit Your Health? November 1, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in health, wellness.Tags: supplements
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A multivitamin is a combination of vitamins (and sometimes minerals) that make up a nutritional supplement.
Another basic way of looking at a multivitamin is that it is an all-in-one supplement. You take only one pill instead of taking a whole bunch of different ones. If you are a forgetful person then this situation is ideal!
No two people will tell you the same thing about multivitamins. In fact there is no consensus in the health community as to whether multivitamins are a good idea or whether they are not. What is known is that multivitamins are not a substitute for a healthy diet but are meant to provide supplementation to a person’s diet (thus the word supplement).
There are times when you are not likely to receive as many nutrients from your food as you require. For example, when you are under a tremendous amount of stress or when you get sick. These are times when you could really benefit from what a multivitamin has to offer you.
But stress and sickness are not the only two conditions under which taking a multivitamin is advisable. There are plenty of things in your environment that can wear down your body and make your immune system less able to fight off viruses and bacteria.
There are chemicals in the food you eat and the water you drink. There are also foods that contain too much sodium and/or too much sugar, as well as foods that are fried, fatty or highly processed. There are pollutants in the air and the aging process that you need to be concerned about. There are lifestyle habits to think about such as the consumption of alcohol, the use of drugs and smoking. There is also the general wear and tear of simply living life that can make the body’s defenses all that more vulnerable to health problems. Over time many of these factors combined can lead to a tired, worn out body that could use an extra boost of vitamins. That is where a multivitamin comes into play.
To help improve your health odds strive to eat as healthy as possible, not just once in a while but every day. If you eat seven to 10 servings of fruits and veggies daily then you can be guaranteed that your body is being well supplied with the 13 essential vitamins and 17 different minerals it needs to be healthy.
It is also important that you are a physically active person. It is recommended that everyone get 30 minutes of exercise per day. Exercise is about more than just going to the gym. Look for simple ways to incorporate more physical activity into your life.
It is not always possible for every person to eat a nutritious and well balanced diet every day of their life. This is why supplementing the food you eat with a multivitamin can help to keep illnesses from invading your body. The body is composed of millions of cells that are continuously being put through a period of regeneration. To work at the top of their game every one of these cells needs the proper nourishment. This comes by way of vitamins and minerals. Only you can decide when and why a multivitamin is right for you.
Samantha
Understanding the Virus Known as H1N1 (or the Swine Flu) October 23, 2009
Posted by beccas90 in health.Tags: h1n1, swine flu
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H1N1 or influenza A (otherwise known as the swine flu) is a potentially harmful virus that first made its appearance in human in the spring of this year.
The virus came to be known as the swine flu in the media because one of the surface proteins that it is composed of is very similar to a virus that infects pigs. In North America this virus has been spreading throughout the pig population for many years but has also now begun to spread to humans. Why this is the case is not known.
It is important to note that eating pork will not cause you to develop the swine flu. It is essential however that you always wash your hands thoroughly before handling meat of any kind. Even if the virus was transferred through the meat (which it is not), cooking would kill all traces of it.
Let us look at some of the most significant issues surrounding the H1N1 virus …
Many people hear the world pandemic and they panic. The word makes them think that the virus is waiting to infect them as soon as they walk out their door. This is not the case at all. In June of this year the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the swine flu was a Phase 6 pandemic which happens to be the highest level of alert there is. This has nothing to do with how serious or deadly the virus is. What it means is that the virus has spread to a selection of countries NOT that it is worsening in severity.
Despite what the television and newspapers might have you believe, just like the seasonal flu, H1N1 can be treated and in fact causes only minor illness in most people. It is only in the most extreme cases where individuals require hospitalization. Most over-the-counter drugs can help to lessen symptoms such as fever and body aches.
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself is the same for every type of virus – wash your hands frequently, and in particular after coming into contact with contaminated surfaces used by many people such as doorknobs, telephones and computers. Use regular soap and water and carry sanitizing wipes with you. Antibacterial soap will not help because it fights bacteria and H1N1 is a virus. It is also important that you keep your hands away from your face as much as possible.
Contrary to popular belief, those over the age of 65 are not in a high risk group for contracting H1N1. In fact the seasonal winter flu can be more dangerous for elderly individuals than H1N1.The most susceptible groups for contracting H1N1 include pregnant women, children under the age of two, individuals under 65 years of age who have medical problems such as asthma or diabetes that could result in complications developing from the flu, and caregivers and health employees who work with infants.
There was a rush put on production of the H1N1 vaccine however it is both safe and effective. The vaccine is highly recommended for those in high risk categories. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must clear every batch of the H1N1 vaccine before it is released. The H1N1 vaccine is made in the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine. It is given to an estimated 100 million Americans on an annual basis and there are very few side effects ever seen. The ones that are noted are minor. The vaccine has been studied extensively and put through a multitude of clinical trials and does not show a reaction any different than that of the winter flu vaccine.
To learn more about the H1N1 virus visit these websites:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33175413/ns/health-swine_flu/
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn17026-swine-flu-what-you-need-to-know.html
Becca
Remaining Healthy During the Cold and Flu Season October 18, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in health, wellness.Tags: flu
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No one enjoys being sick with a cold or the flu but for many it is par for the course during the colder months of the year.
The cold and flu season gets its start sometime in mid to late October and ends some time in late March or April. There is no cure for these illnesses but there are ways to safe guard yourself against the viruses. Let’s look at a few of the ways to prevent getting sick.
One of the simplest and most overlooked ways to keep germs at bay is to wash your hands as often as possible. Wash them before meals and wash them after touching contaminated surfaces such as telephones, remote controls, doorknobs, and faucets. Wash your hands with warm water and soap. Spend a few minutes washing and rinsing. Make sure you dry your hands thoroughly afterward. It would be helpful if you kept sanitary wipes in your purse or desk at work. You might also want to use a hand sanitizer when finding your way to a bathroom is impossible.
Rev Up the Immune System
Your immune system could use a boost during the flu season. In order to keep your immune system working at full capacity, make sure you eat a nutritious and well balanced diet every day and exercise on a regular basis. Studies have proven that moderate physical activity has a positive effect on the immune system and over time can help prevent the onset of colds and other respiratory problems. You also need to get as much rest as possible and to keep your stress level to a minimum. If you have an unhealthy habit such as eating too much or smoking or drinking too much alcohol then cutting back on these habits can reduce the workload on your immune system.
Preventing Sickness with Food
Certain foods are instrumental in preventing the development of colds and the flu. If you find yourself or a family member getting sick over and over again then maybe it is time you ate more preventative foods.
Many dairy products including cheese contain a natural substance called conjugated linoleic acid which can improve immune system function. Another dairy product, yogurt contains friendly bacteria called probiotics that can strengthen the immune system.
Garlic is excellent as a food source for preventing sickness during the cold season. Garlic increases a person’s resistance to both stress and infections. The immune fighting power of garlic is most realized when the cloves are crushed before it is added to food. Once crushed, the garlic juice can be released and do its sickness fighting work. Onions have similar immune system properties. If you do not like garlic then consider taking a garlic supplement over the fall and winter months.
The immune system also gets a boost when it gets plenty of vitamin C. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, lemons and limes. You can also find it in fruit juices but to a lesser extent. Look for pure fruit juices that contain very little sugar.
Zinc is an essential mineral that is very beneficial to proper immune system function. Zinc can be found in chicken and meat as well as peanuts and peanut butter. It is also found in plentiful supply in oysters and in some types of seafood such as crab and lobster.
Take care of yourself throughout the cold and flu season and do everything you can to send the message to sickness that you don’t want what it has to offer!
Samantha
Five Ways to Live a Healthy and Cancer-Free Life October 9, 2009
Posted by beccas90 in health, healthy-foods, wellness.Tags: cancer-free, lifestyle
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Living a healthy life and taking steps to remain cancer-free is all about paying attention to how you live your life and being super conscientious.
Approximately one in three North Americans will develop some form of cancer at some point during their lifetime. What many people do not realize is that cancer is not inevitable. In fact it is estimated that up to 75 percent of deaths linked to cancer can be prevented. In order to be one of those people who beats the odds, read on for five ways that you can live a healthy and cancer-free life.
One
If you are a smoker then give it up. If you have not started then don’t even think about starting! Smoking can give rise to many different forms of cancer. Lung cancer and cardiovascular disease are only the beginning. Not to mention the fact that smoking reduces an individual’s lifespan by 10 years or more. You should also try to avoid tobacco in all of its forms. Even if you are not a smoker, beware of second-hand and third-hand smoke.
Two
Eat good foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Eat locally grown organic foods as often as possible. Eat an abundance of fruits and vegetables. In particular eat leafy green vegetables such as broccoli, bok choy, spinach and kale as well as berries such as blueberries and strawberries. Eat whole grains and fish two to three times a week. Reduce your intake of sugar, meat, caffeine and alcohol. Steer clear from deep fried foods and saturated fats. It is also important to drink plenty of water to replenish what you lose on a daily basis.
Three
Exercise on a regular basis. Make physical activity an important part of your daily schedule. Do different types of exercises in order to prevent boredom from setting in and to keep yourself motivated. Exercise also helps to keep you lean. Obesity increases your chances of developing many forms of cancer. Aim to take in fewer calories then you burn off in the run of a day.
Four
Get a good night’s sleep. Sleep is an important aspect of being healthy and staying healthy. Sleep is the time when the body rests and heals itself. The brain also has the opportunity to dream and get rid of the stress from the day. A well rested person is more ready to cope with life’s challenges and has a greater level of focus and concentration on the job. An occasional sleepless night is one thing but it is important that you do your very best to get seven to eight hours of sleep per night (every night!).
Five
Drink green tea. In fact replace coffee or any other caffeine drink with green tea. Research studies have proven that green tea is full of cancer fighting properties. It has been associated with lowering the incidence of many types of cancers. Green tea also contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also beneficial at combating weight gain. Even one or two cups a day can do your body good!
To learn more ways to live a healthy life that is free of cancer visit these websites:
http://www.naturalnews.com/025872.html
http://nutrition.suite101.com/article.cfm/how_to_live_long_and_stay_cancer_free
http://www.naturepurity.com/holistic/cancerfree.html
Becca
Get on the Road to a Chemical Free Life! (Part Two) October 3, 2009
Posted by beccas90 in health, wellness.Tags: chemical free
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Living a chemical free life can heighten your senses and it can make the experience of living that much better.
A sound body and a mind that is clear and calm can give rise to the ability to think better, feel more and be more alive in every way. It can also make it possible for the spirit to become more evolved and enriched. No matter how you look at it, chemical free living can improve anyone’s life.
What is Happening in Your Kitchen?
Next time you go into your kitchen to cook a meal take a look at what you are working with. Environmentalists caution that non-stick pans are bad because the chemical used to bond the non-stick coating, known as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), is hazardous to health and has been linked to cancer, high cholesterol and birth defects in infants. Sometimes referred to as C-8, many people who cook with these pans end up eating the coating with their food because it becomes mixed in as the cooking process takes place.
Non-stick cookware may be easier to clean but just think about what it is doing to your insides! The alternative is to buy cast-iron cookware, ceramic or steel. Living a chemical free life involves making changes that can improve your health and well-being in every way possible – this is one of them.
Microwaves are very convenient for today’s busy and on-the-go lifestyles but you have to be very careful what you heat up in them. Never place Styrofoam cups or plates in a microwave because the chemicals they are made up of are then released into the food you are heating up. Styrofoam contains CFC’s and polystyrene which are both chemicals that are dangerous for the body. These chemicals have been shown to cause breast cancer in women and prostrate cancer in men. Better yet give up using Styrofoam all together. It is not good for anyone – whether it is heated or not.
If you use plastic baby bottles then steer clear of the microwave when the milk needs to be warmed up. There is a chemical called polycarbonate in plastic baby bottles that is bad news for your infant and can do him or her harm. Instead heat the milk on the stove in a saucepan or in a glass or ceramic container.
Heating anything plastic in the microwave is not recommended for anyone as chemicals are released that can find their way into the body when the food or beverage is consumed. Look for microwave safe dishes that are made of chemical free materials when it comes to heating up food or making a cup of coffee or tea. Continue to use your microwave if your lifestyle deems it necessary but be smart about it … and always think chemical free.
Suggestions for Living Chemical Free
You do not have to turn your whole world upside down in order to live chemical free. All it involves is some modifications to the way you already live. In fact you are probably already doing some things right such as drinking plenty of purified water and eating whole grain bread instead of white bread.
Here are some other suggestions to get you started down the chemical free path to better health:
• Keep plants in your home and especially in the room where you work
• Open windows regularly to let in fresh air
• Use full spectrum light bulbs or natural sunlight when you are working
• Drink herb tea throughout the day
• Eat chemical free and pesticide free organic foods
• Eat free-range meats and dairy products that contain no hormones
• Use unheated extra virgin olive oil on foods as opposed to butter or margarine
• Wear natural fibers such as cotton, wool, linen and silk
• Take B vitamins when energy is reduced and stress is plentiful
• Practice yoga and meditation
There are so many things you can do to transform your life and make it better for yourself and your family. Start thinking chemical free and let it reflect in how you live your life!
For more information on chemical free living visit these websites-
http://www.askyogimarlon.com/holisticliving.html
http://www.zerochemicals.com/
http://www.wellbeing.com.au/natural_health_articles?cid=7168&pid=16426
Becca
Get on the Road to a Chemical Free Life! (Part One) October 1, 2009
Posted by beccas90 in health, wellness.Tags: chemical free
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A chemical free life is a life where the potential for your health is almost limitless.
A life without drugs and harmful chemicals in the body is one that can be richly lived. Living chemical free means you will be healthier, you will be well nourished body and soul and you will have lots of energy, vitality and hope for the future.
What Does it Mean to Live Chemical Free?
Living a chemical free life means that you embrace a healthier and more organic approach to life. You look for as many ways as possible to omit chemicals from your life. This can be a challenge to do in the world we live in but with much dedication and effort it can be accomplished a little bit at a time. The important thing is to stick to your guns and do not falter from your mission to live as chemical free as you possibly can!
To start, bid farewell to many of the products you use on a regular basis in your home and at work. For your lawn and garden, say goodbye to pesticides, insecticides and snail pellets and say hello to garlic spray, chili powder and plants that repel bugs and snails as opposed to attracting them.
Buy homegrown, organic fruits and vegetables, preferably from local markets. Organic produce is not sprayed with any type of harmful pesticides or fertilizers which is good news for those who purchase them. They may cost a little more but they are chemical free and in turn, much better for your health!
When you clean your home, toss out all of the hazardous products that are made with harsh ingredients and chemicals. Replace them with milder products that will not hurt you, your family or the environment. Some examples of chemical free cleaning products include plain old fashioned white vinegar, essential oils (that you can buy or make yourself) and bicarbonate of soda (in other words, baking soda).
Check your bathroom, bedroom and even the drawer in your desk at work where you keep personal hygiene and beauty items. You will cringe when you read what ingredients are in these products. Once you start to do your research on the ingredient listed, you will cringe even more! Living a chemical free life is not just about what you put into your body but also about what you do to it in terms of grooming. From now on read all labels carefully and buy only plant-based organic products. While this was once unheard of more and more companies are becoming aware of the importance of producing chemical free products that will not do anyone any harm.
Look for shampoos, conditions, moisturizers, lotions, toners, soaps, deodorants, creams, oils, and cosmetic products that are not tested on animals and come from plants. If you cannot find these products in the regular department stores where you stop then visit a health food store for what you need.
Did you know that an insect will die every bit as quickly if doused with deodorant as if it was sprayed with bug spray? It will. Both are full of chemicals and both kill. You get the point.
Read on for more information about how to live a chemical free life in part two of this special story.
Becca
Put Your Health Where Your Mouth Is! (Part Two) September 26, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in health, wellness.Tags: mouth, osteoporosis, teeth
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The mouth-body connection is a new finding that is changing the way we view our oral health and making it front and center in terms of healthcare.
We are now discovering that what is going on in the mouth no longer exists on its own but is intimately connected with the health of the body. The mouth holds clues that were unrealized before now and may hold the key to understanding infection, inflammation and diseases.
Let us continue to look at what the mouth-body connection could mean for your health …
Oral Health and Heart Disease
At present the jury has not come back on whether oral health and heart disease are related in any way. However the American Heart Association has found through a number of research studies that poor oral health could increase your chances of developing heart disease. It is theorized that it is the bacteria, or the inflammatory response caused by the bacteria, that causes plaque buildup in blood vessels and inflammation to develop around the heart. Until a clear link can be established between heart health and oral health, your best protection is to brush and floss your teeth regularly and get professional cleanings at least twice a year.
Oral Health and Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens the bones over time and makes them less dense. This is related to a loss of the mineral calcium. Osteoporosis could also be the cause of tooth loss in some individuals. The jaw is a bone which holds the teeth in place. It can be as vulnerable to osteoporosis as can all of the other bones in the human body. If the jaw become weaker and less dense then the risk of losing teeth becomes that much greater.
If you already have been diagnosed with osteoporosis then you will want to be extremely conscientious when it comes to your daily ritual of brushing after every meal and flossing before bedtime. If you develop periodontal disease then this can add insult to injury and make a bad problem that much worse. You are already losing bone mass but the two diseases combined could put you in a higher risk category for losing teeth.
Women who suffer from osteoporosis are three times more likely to risk tooth loss than are those who do not have the disease. To help prevent getting this disease you should eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly and take a calcium and vitamin D supplement.
Oral Health and Women’s Special Concerns
Due to hormonal ups and downs throughout their lives, women are particularly vulnerable to developing oral health problems in the form of gum disease and/or periodontal disease. High hormone levels in the body can cause inflammation in the gums that surround the teeth. Puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause can all cause hormones to increase to greater levels than normal. High hormone levels can cause females to be more sensitive to even a small percentage of bacteria or plaque on the teeth. That is why above average dental care is strongly recommended for all women.
At present a link between periodontal disease and being pregnant has been established that shows that this oral disease could put your unborn baby at risk. Maternal periodontal disease has been associated with preterm delivery and low birth weight.
Now that you understand the significance of the mouth-body connection your oral health should take on a whole new meaning. Open up now and see what it is telling you about the condition your body is in.
Samantha
Put Your Health Where Your Mouth Is! (Part One) September 24, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in health, wellness.Tags: dentist, mouth, teeth
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More and more evidence points to the fact that your mouth holds the secret to your overall level of health.
You have probably heard of the mind-body connection, but how about the mouth-body connection? Also sometimes referred to as the oral-body health connection, research shows that the condition of your teeth and gums holds secrets to what is really happening inside your body. In fact your next visit to the dentist may speak volumes about your health and your well-being.
Open your mouth and allow it to reveal clues to what is working well and what could use a tune-up. Compare it to the workings of a car and it should be easy to comprehend.
Researchers have begun to zero in on the connection that exists between gum disease, cavities and heart disease. At the present time no link has been clearly established but studies are ongoing. There are diseases however that have been found to be associated with a higher than average risk of developing any number of infections. For example, loose teeth could be a symptom of osteoporosis while those who suffer from diabetes are more likely to experience gingival and periodontal infections and inflammation.
Let us take a closer look at what the mouth-body connection could mean for you …
Oral Health and Smoking
Here is a good place to start. If you think you can hide your smoking habit from your dentist then think again. Your yellow stained teeth will give you away immediately! Smokers are at a greater risk for any oral problem as compared to non-smokers. Tooth loss is the number one concern. Talk about a way to ruin a lovely smile! An estimated 41 percent of those over the age of 65 who smoke on a daily basis are toothless. Smoking can also lead to a greater level of calculus on the teeth. It can lead to mouth sores, deep pockets between the teeth and gums, loss of bone and tissue and the risk of oral cancer.
Oral Heath and Diabetes
Diabetes is the one disease that the medical community is well aware can affect the condition of the bones and gums that surround the teeth. This is because of blood sugar. If your blood sugar level is not being controlled in the body then it will also be out of whack in your mouth. Bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugar and then attack the enamel that protects the teeth. Over time this can wear down the teeth and make them more susceptible to cavities.
Diabetes that is out of control can weaken the body’s ability to fight off infection with its white blood cells which can then make your oral health problematic. High blood sugar levels lead to higher than average levels of bacteria which can open the door wide to gum disease or periodontal disease.
Individuals with diabetes need to work closely with their dentist to ensure the best oral health possible. They also need to do their part at home to take care of their teeth and gums by brushing and flossing regularly.
Continue on to part two of this post to learn more about the mouth-body connection.
Samantha
Increase Your Fat Burning Power More Every Day with Food September 19, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, health.Tags: fat burning, foods
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Your fat burning power can be improved upon if you feed your body the right selection of foods.
While garlic and onions may be a little stinky for your tastes, both of these powerhouse foods are excellent for your health. They are full of phytochemicals which break down fatty deposits that build up in the body. They also kill bacteria, viruses and fungi that threaten the body’s delicate system. Garlic and onions can break down cholesterol in the bloodstream and can fight against heart disease. Garlic and onions are a winning combination and also work just as well on their own. They fight fat and disease. Can you beat that power?
Speaking of phytochemicals, tomatoes contain both vitamin C as well as the phytochemical lycopene. Tomatoes support the development of an amino acid called carnitine. Carnitine is a fat burning powerhouse for sure! Research has shown that it speeds up the body’s ability to burn fat by as much as one-third of its capacity.
If you are not used to eating beans and legumes then it is time to begin! Legumes are one of the best sources of fiber of any food known to man and womankind. Not only do they keep your bowels working regularly and properly, but they also keep blood sugar at a normal level. Soy is a prime example of a food in this category that breaks down fat stores in the body.
Olives and olive oil are both composed of healthy (also known as monounsaturated) fats. Just like oatmeal, they both make the stomach feel fuller for a longer span of time and they reduce cravings for junk food. Yet another advantage of these foods is that they reduce blood pressure that has become too high.
Eating nuts that are raw and unsalted can give you an extra dose of essential fatty acids which can encourage the burning of fat. Nuts are very good for you in other ways as well. Did you know that they can lower your risk of having a heart attack by as much as 60 percent? They can.
The consumption of flax seeds and flax seed oil can attract oil-soluble toxins that find their way into the fatty tissues of the body and from there, help to get rid of fat-soluble toxins. This means that less fat will be stored in the body. Say bye bye to dreaded fat and hello to a thinner looking you!
Cayenne (or cayenne pepper as it is sometimes called) is a hot spice that is often referred to as a kind of natural antibiotic. Cayenne speeds up the process of metabolism and it lowers blood sugar in order that excess insulin will not be stored as fat. To burn more fat you might want to add cayenne to some of your favorite recipes.
So now you have it- an array of foods that have excellent fat burning potential for your body. You do not have to put up with lingering fat around your middle that serves no useful purpose whatsoever. Eat your way to a slimmer and trimmer you!
Samantha
Increase Your Fat Burning Potential with Fat Burning Foods September 18, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, health.Tags: fat burning, foods
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Forget fighting fire with fire – how about fighting fat with foods that increase your fat burning capacity?
If you are sick and tired of the extra pounds around your middle that have become comfortable exactly where they are at and they just do not want to leave you in peace, then it is time to carefully examine the foods you are eating on a regular basis. There are certain foods that support your body in burning fat because they promote the main organ that handles fat – the liver – to work to the very best of its ability.
While there are many foods that have this unique fat burning potential, here we look at a selection of the top choices in no special order. Bear in mind however that you still need to watch how many calories you consume on a daily basis. As well, portion control is still important.
Do not unlace your sneakers either! Eating fat burning foods does not mean that you can give up exercising! You will still need to continue with your time in the gym and with the dreaded sit-ups. Eating more foods with the potential to burn fat is just another item to add to your arsenal to help you win the war you are having with your weight, as opposed to the other way around!
Start the Day by Burning Fat
To begin with, add green tea to your choice of beverages. Drink at least three to four cups a day and drink it black. Green tea is an excellent fat burning addition to your life. Start your day off right with a cup of green tea, steeped just the way you like it.
Speaking of starting the day off right, don’t stop with green tea. Maximize your fat burning potential even more by eating a bowl of oatmeal in the morning. Oatmeal is the good and most definitely, healthy kind of complex carbohydrate that keeps you feeling full for a lengthy period of time because it does not digest at a swift rate. This means that it should sustain you until lunch time. It will also keep your blood sugar level stable and will reduce your craving for fatty foods. Eat oatmeal plain or add some cinnamon for a little dash of flavor. Do not smother it with brown sugar and /or milk or you will defeat its fat burning potential (and purpose).
Everything is Coming Up Green!
You are probably constantly hearing about the importance of leafy green vegetables. There is a reason for that. Leafy greens are abundance in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. There is almost nothing healthier that you could possibly eat than leafy greens. Here is yet another reason to eat as many of them as possible- they provide plenty of fiber which your body needs. They also prevent you from being hungry. Leafy greens also help to keep your memory intact and they help to prevent cancer, heart disease and cataracts. Eat as much broccoli, spinach, mustard greens, kale, bok choy and other dark leafy green vegetables as you can handle.Watch your weight start to turn in your favor!
Read on for more foods that can fight fat big time in my follow-up post!
Samantha
Common Myths and Facts about Vitamins (Part Two) September 12, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, health.Tags: myths-vitamins
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Now that you have learned some of the common myths and facts about vitamins, are you ready to tackle some more?
Here is one that many people are quick to believe- supplements found on the shelves in grocery stores and in health food stores must be safe for consumers otherwise they would not be on the market. Right? Not necessarily.
To date there is no official pre-market approval needed to sell any type of supplements, whether they be vitamins, minerals or herbal supplements. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not limit in any way the concentration or the percentage of nutrients in any supplement on the market. The one exception is that of folacin. For this reason, taking a supplement is something you do at your own risk.
Myth: Herbal supplement are natural and therefore could never cause any harm to come to an individual who took them.
Fact: There are plenty of naturally obtained substances in the world that can do harm and in large enough dosages can prove deadly. Fungus is an example of one. Nevertheless the key is to take the correct dosage to ensure safety. Don’t overdo a good thing! Vitamins can help you and are a welcome addition to a healthy lifestyle but you can damage your health permanently if you go overboard!
Myth: The consumption of vitamins can take the place of food so a person can eat less.
Fact: Vitamins and all other supplements are not miracle workers. You cannot just pop a pill and have instant good health. What most people fail to realize is that vitamins require the energy that comes from food. They need proteins, fats and carbohydrates for proper absorption. For that reason it is smart to eat a selection of foods that provide you with all of the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential amino acids that you need (as well as the energy you require) and then take supplements when you are suffering from a deficit of vitamins or minerals. In this way you get the vitamins you need the way nature intended- through your food!
Myth: For maximum absorption, vitamins should be consumed on an empty stomach.
Fact: Hold on there- back up! It is actually best to take supplements with food or at meal times. It is also wise to take smaller portions of vitamins with more than one meal as opposed to a large dosage all at once. In particular fat-soluble vitamins absorb better when there is already some fat present in the digestive system.
Now that you can separate the myths from the facts, you can approach vitamin supplements with a safe and smart approach!
Samantha
Common Myths and Facts about Vitamins (Part One) September 10, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, health.Tags: myths-vitamins
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Common myths about vitamins are everywhere you turn, but thankfully so is the information needed to set the record straight.
Here is a common myth that can be very dangerous- has anyone ever told you that the more vitamins you consume the better it is for your health?
Yes, no, maybe?
Here is the truth- while vitamins are good for you, consuming them in high quantities can be harmful to the body. This is especially the case for the fat-soluble ones such as A, D, E and K. Don’t overdo it by any means!
Let us look at some other common myths that can easily trip you up. Always follow the trail of the facts and information as opposed to the false fallacies!
Myth: If you take vitamins then you can eat whatever you like and do not have to worry about eating a nutritious diet.
Fact: This is false- so false! Vitamins cannot replace a healthy diet and they cannot provide you with all the essential nutrients you need to be healthy. You need to consume a healthy diet each and every day. This means lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy products, lean meats and seafood.
Myth: Taking vitamins means that exercise is not important.
Fact: Exercise is always important. In fact it never ceases to be important no matter how old you are. Even if you only take a 30 minute walk once a day or walk the same length of time on a treadmill, lace up your sneakers and get going! Walks are good for everyone but they are particularly good for those who have high blood pressure or are overweight.
Myth: Organic vitamins are much safer and healthier than are their synthetic counterparts.
Fact: Only you know that there is a difference between organic vitamins and synthetic ones. The body is not able to tell the difference. One advantage of organic vitamins is that the food that they come from is rich in fiber and other types of nutrients whereas the synthetic vitamins have none of that.
Myth: One of the best ways to guarantee good health for yourself and your family is to take vitamins.
Fact: Vitamins can help you if you are suffering a deficiency or if you have been sick or are in need of extra nutrients due to lack of access to healthy foods, etc. However the body does not have a lot of areas where it can store the supplements you take in. In fact a great deal of the vitamins you consume are excreted from the body fairly quickly. The most appropriate way to remain as healthy as possible and to ensure good health for your family is to eat a regular diet of healthy foods and to exercise on a consistent basis.
Continue on to part two of this post to uncover more truths and untruths about vitamins.
Samantha
What is Reiki and How Does it Work? (Part Two) September 5, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in health, wellness.Tags: healing, Reiki
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Reiki energy is the life force which is a spiritual healing tradition that is used in many areas throughout the world.
It is because we all have life force flowing through us that we are alive. Life force is within the physical body of every person and travels through pathways known as meridians, nadis and chakras. It is also all around us in what is often described as our aura or our field of energy. It is important to be aware that the life force flowing inside of you and surrounding you is very much tuned into your thoughts and your feelings.
What Does Reiki Mean?
Reiki derives from a Japanese word that means “healing.” The “Rei” part of the word Reiki stands for “spiritual” or “universal” while the “Ki” part of the word means “life force energy.” In the western world most individuals think of Reiki as a universal energy or as universal life force energy. It is universal energy as opposed to personal or individual energy that is responsible for Reiki healing.
A Reiki treatment is often described as a “laying on of hands.” If you decide that you would like to visit a Reiki practitioner then find one who is certified, well trained, and preferably experienced in the practice. This ensures the safety of both the patient and the practitioner.
What is a Reiki Treatment Like?
At the start of a Reiki treatment the patient is instructed to lie down on a padded table that affords plenty of comfort for the back. The patient (or client) is fully clothed. The Reiki practitioner carefully uses his hands to run through a series of positions that are designed to transfer energy from his hands to the patient’s body. The practitioner will begin by lightly resting his hands on the patient’s head (or in some cases the practitioner’s hands will rest above the patient’s head). He will do this for a period of three to five minutes. The sequence of hand positions will be repeatedly systematically as the practitioner works his way down the patient’s body, ending at the feet. A full Reiki treatment takes approximately an hour to complete.
The patient should feel energy flowing into his body almost immediately after the practitioner has gotten started. It may be felt as a heat or cold sensation or it could just feel like a strange feeling that has never been experienced before and is difficult to explain.
Reiki is believed to be its most effective for healing when it is performed very soon after a trauma has taken place, whether it be a mental shock that has occurred or a physical illness or injury.
What is Reiki Energy?
Reiki energy is not experienced in exactly the same way by every person who undergoes treatment. Every person has a different pattern of energy that is unique to them. This is one of the many things that make one person different from another. It is comparable to DNA and fingerprints. A pattern of energy is often referred to as personal vibrations. Please be aware that the energy pattern of human beings is not the same as the energy patterns that other species exhibit.
To learn more about what Reiki therapy has to offer you, please visit these websites:
http://www.dhyansanjivani.org/what_doesreiki_do.asp
http://www.reiki.org/FAQ/HowDoesReikiWork.html
Samantha
What is Reiki and How Does it Work? (Part One) September 3, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in health, wellness.Tags: healing, Reiki
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Reiki is an alternative therapy that makes use of ancient healing energy techniques to bring about more vitality and a healthier human being.
Reiki treatment can be used to increase your personal energy as well as to build resilience and strength. It can modify the mindset to reflect the positive and can provide more insight into your inner self. The healing energy of Reiki can give way to an intense and often immediate feeling of deep relaxation and calmness which can automatically reduce the stress load that a person is carrying.
Reiki is a type of healing treatment that got its start in Japan in the 20th century. The word “Reiki” means “spiritual or soul energy.” It was created by Buddhist Sensei Mikao Usui. Practitioners of the therapy believe that it can be effectively used to unblock spiritual and/or emotional blocks that are the root causes of sickness.
The practice of Reiki is believed to have the ability to heal an individual by way of the energy that flows from the practitioner’s hands. It is universal life energy that fuels Reiki. The healing therapy works on the causes of a disease as opposed to the symptoms of it.
Is Reiki a Healing Therapy for Everyone?
The effects of Reiki will be very subtle for the person who is healthy in most respects, including physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. However most people have an area of weakness and one that causes them some level of discomfort and grief. For that reason, Reiki can benefit practically everyone at some point in their lives.
The individual is the one that must be willing to accept and use the energy that is transferred during a Reiki treatment. Energy cannot be transferred if a Reiki treatment does not take place. The Reiki experience is not the same for everyone. Some people will experience it in a very subtle manner and will wonder if anything happened at all while other people will find that the effect is truly profound and amazing.
Reiki is often thought of as intelligent energy because it responds to healing at the highest possible level, which is to say the spiritual core of a human being. It is very much a spiritual practice because it deals with energy or what many may refer to as the spirit of a person. A treatment by a Reiki practitioner is not the same as a massage as there is no manipulation of tissues and no pressure exerted on the body whatsoever.
Learn more about the practice of Reiki in part two of this series.
Samantha
The Many Reasons to Indulge in Tea Time (Part Two) August 28, 2009
Posted by smnthng35 in diet, health, healthy-foods, wellness.Tags: tea
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Tea is good for the human body in so many different and wonderful ways.
If you are not a convert yet because you cannot seem to get your taste buds accustomed to tea then try a variety of types before you decide it is not for you. It would not even hurt to sample a variety of herbal teas such as ginger or chamomile to discover what each has going for it.
To get the absolute in healthy value that tea has to offer, take it black. In other words, skip the milk and definitely skip the sugar. Research studies have found that adding these substances to a cup of tea can block the effectiveness of it. Of course in most instances green and white are consumed without adding anything to them.
Let us return to the many reasons why tea time equals better health for you.
Fourth Reason
Tea contains antioxidants and vitamin E. Taken together this means that it helps with the antioxidation of cells. What does this mean for you? It means that the process of aging can be slowed down.
Fifth Reason
Tea is beneficial when it comes to cleaning out the intestines. Flavonoids called catechins in tea are very beneficial in the intestines because they destroy bacteria and help to ward off health conditions such as arteriosclerosis and gastric ulcers. Tea is also very calming to the stomach (think chamomile tea when you fly!).
Sixth Reason
Due to its high content of catechins (there is that wonderful word again!) found in green tea (but to a much lesser extent in black tea), tea can help block the accumulation of fat, especially in the abdominal region. The absorption of dietary fats is inhibited by the body in the digestive tract and the enzymes that metabolize fat that is stored in the body are activated. What this means is that any new fat you consume or any of your fat stores better look out! Tea has fat elimination on its busy agenda!
Seventh Reason
Tea is a natural source of fluoride because of the soil the tea plant grows in. This is very good news for the pearly whites you work so hard to maintain! Fluoride helps to keep the enamel of teeth strong and it works to prevent cavities. It also contains two very important minerals- calcium and magnesium- which when combined; work very well together to build strong and healthy teeth that would make anyone proud. As well, the antioxidants, in particular catechins, in tea go to work quickly to get rid of bacteria in the mouth that can lead to bad breath (also known as halitosis).
There are many more reasons than this why indulging in tea time is good for your body and your mind. For example, tea is particularly beneficial for women because it is believed to help ward off long-term memory loss as well as Alzheimer’s disease. This would be the eighth reason why you should make tea a part of your life and tea time an essential part of your schedule. To learn about the various benefits to becoming a regular tea drinker, visit these websites and then drink to your health!
http://50plus.com/Lifestyle/BrowseAllArticles/index.cfm?documentID=22061
http://www.teamuse.com/article_030501.html
Samantha
