Sunday, 30 September 2012

Antioxidants: The Good,The Better and The Awesome!

Antioxidants are the powerhouses of vitamins and other nutrients within fruits and vegetables that provide protection for your body against free radicals. Free radicals? What are free radicals you ask?


Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that are formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules in your body. These free radicals then go out and damage the molecules of our healthy cells in a domino-like reaction, and sometimes, even our DNA. In fact, there are four ways in which free radicals can cause cell damage, to the:


- Cell Walls
- Cell Protoplasm
- Mitochondria
- DNA


The Good
To protect ourselves against these free radicals, our bodies developed a complex system of antioxidants! Some of the principle antioxidants are Vitamins C and E, along with beta carotene. Guess what? Lucky us, as these are also high in so many of the wonderful vegetables we use in green juices and a plant-based diet!


The antioxidants react safely with the free radicals and prevent them from performing their complete chain reaction. The free radicals beat up our cells and damage them, sometimes even killing them in the process. Free radicals have an odd number of electrons which causes much of the problem because the electrons are supposed to come in pairs. The antioxidants either add another electron or take one away to make an even number and neutralize the free radicals.


The Better
Vitamin E is highly present in nuts, nut oils, olives, spinach, seeds and apricots. Vitamin C is much more common in citrus fruits, peppers, spinach, kale, broccoli, cantaloupe and other awesome produce. Kale, spinach and broccoli are all staples of green juices and you're likely to come across them a lot in my recipes. Beta carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A, is present in carrots, spinach, broccoli and peaches, among others. In most cases, the more colorful the vegetable, the better. This includes the dark green, yellows and oranges.


The Awesome!
Diseases such as cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's and even HIV may get some relief from the proper amount of antioxidants we put into our body through our food. We can also all benefit by slowing down the aging process and looking and feeling younger than our years!


I, and many others cancer sur-THRIVERS I know, are living proof that such a wonderful diet can truly change your life around from the inside out!


Science
Science is still studying the true effects of antioxidants and trying to single out the benefits of them. It's inconclusive so far, but even the American Cancer Society recommends getting at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day based on what we're starting to notice with antioxidants. Note: I personally recommend 1 serving of fruit and 4+ servings of mostly green veggies, and about 2 servings of red, yellow or orange veggies - just eliminate or reduce the higher glycemic ones like carrots and beets!


What many studies do support is that the fact that people who eat more fruits and vegetables seem to be less likely to have serious diseases, such as cancers or heart disease. The conclusion is that it's because of the antioxidants, or something else in the vegetables, that's providing these awesome benefits! So what do you have to lose?!


Let's Get More Antioxidants
What we do know is this - fruits and vegetables are great for our overall health and for helping us look and feel younger - so, who the heck doesn't want that? We simply need to get as many of them as we can starting now - especially the dark leafy and cruciferous ones! In addition to the nutritional intake, be sure to also drink filtered, clean water and breathe clean air as much as possible (no smoking)!


Tina Pruitt is passionate about living life out loud and sharing with others the wildly outstanding benefits of green juicing for vibrant, healthy living and shares her healthy, green living techniques and insights via her blog and ezine at thehealthylifestylist.com. If you're ready to jump into a healthy lifestyle, be sure to sign up for the mailing list at thehealthylifestylist.com. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Saturday, 29 September 2012

Answers to Some of Your Workout Questions

What should I eat after a workout?


After your workout you want protein and a high sugar carb as soon as possible. The high sugar carb will speed up the protein but skip the fat as that will only slow the meal down. I suggest a shake because liquid will get into your system quicker. You can use a scoop of protein or other sources of protein such as milk, Greek yogurt or, eggs are fine. Make sure you get enough protein for your size. For the high sugar carb, berries work really well. This is just your after workout meal and you will need to eat a regular meal an hour after this. Try a frozen banana in your shake, you'll love it!


How important is sleep to staying physically fit?


We all know how important nutrition is to recovery after our workouts, but we don't seem to put as much importance on sleep for recovery. We spend all this time and money on making sure we are getting enough protein for our muscle growth, but maybe neglecting the fact that sleep plays a role in protein synthesis. Protein synthesis is a complicated process in which food is turned into muscles. So if you put your time and effort into building a strong body, sleep should be on your daily check list. Those days at the gym when you were lacking some serious sleep... maybe you weren't working at your full potential. Maybe you could have added some extra plates to your sets or ran another kg. You could be working against yourself and your immune system. And what about naps? I say go for it if it doesn't affect your night time sleep. If it does, try setting your alarm for 15-20 mins for a power nap. Just enough time to feel more alert and improve your thinking skills. Besides who doesn't like to sleep?


How do I get my partner to be healthy? He 's always complaining that he needs to get in shape, but when I tell him to go to the gym or put down the chips, he gets very angry. What can I do?


It' s very tough to get started on a routine or nutrition plan when you don't know where to begin. Even though you 're trying to help, telling him things he already knows may be adding to the guilt he already feels. This will cause him to feel pressured and overwhelmed. Try a different approach. Find some physical activities you both like doing once or twice a week. Offer to do the cooking or grocery shopping. Follow a nutritional meal plan yourself and he will probably join you. Trying to take on everything at once is not realistic and will usually cause you to fail, which adds a blow to the ego. Positive reinforcement works every time and remember, nobody wants to be unhealthy so, he will probably respond well to the help. After he sees results with the small steps, he might want to consider enlisting the help of a Personal Trainer. Good luck!


Tara Robbins - Elite Trainer and Co-Owner of Just Sweat Fitness Studio in London, Ontario Canada. We specialize in personal and group training. Just Sweat Fitness Studio. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Friday, 28 September 2012

What Is Vitamin K?

A good question, "what is vitamin K?" as the K vitamins were probably the most misunderstood vitamins of the twentieth century. Modern researchers have only recently begun to unlock the secrets of these vitamins, which were discovered by the pioneer nutritionist Dr. Weston Price over 60 years ago.


Dr. Price was well aware of the key role played by "a new vitamin-like activator," which he dubbed Activator X. Although he was cognizant of its key role in utilization of minerals, which prevent and even reverses tooth decay and in reproduction and development, brain function and protection from heart disease he had not been able to chemically describe it.


We now know after 60 years of attempts to identify the elusive X factor that it is vitamin K2. Vitamin K is found naturally in two forms vitamin K1 and vitamin K2. The first is found in green vegetables and K2 is synthesized from K1 by some animals but not humans. It is also produced in a different form by bacteria in some lacto-fermentation processes.


Researchers, until recently, had always figured that they were essentially a different form of the same vitamin. They thought that vitamin K's only role was in blood clotting and as K1 is about 10 times as prevalent in most diets disregarded K2 as unimportant.


Things have changed radically since then and the scientific community has a growing awareness of how crucial vitamin K2 is as a nutrient. Although we have known for some time that the fat soluble vitamins A & D play a key role in bone development and protection from degeneration and tooth decay it is only recently that we have understood that this can only take place in the presence of vitamin K2.


Dr. Price well named the vitamin Activator X because that is exactly what it is the essential "activator." Vitamin K2 allows the body to put calcium in the bones and the teeth where it is needed and keeps it out of the soft tissue where it is harmful.


The ability to make the conversion from vitamin K1 to K2 varies widely between different species of animals and, as I earlier mentioned, is not demonstrated in humans. The observation that the mammary glands seem especially efficient at this conversion leads some researchers to conclude this evolved due to the vitamin being essential for infant development.


Foods High in Vitamin K


Other than that which is produced in lacto-fermentation vitamin K2 is only found in animal products. Hence, for anyone who avoids animal products the Japanese dish called Natto is a very K2 rich dish. Natto is fermented from soybeans and has a host of other health benefits. It is also very pungent and is an acquired taste.


Due to its strong flavor and gooey texture many people are unable to stomach Natto. This is unfortunate in that a 3 oz serving once a week will probably provide all the vitamin K2 required by most people.


The next best source that I am aware of is high vitamin butter oil in the true tradition of Dr. Weston Price's research. While studying the habits of Swiss mountain villagers he found an excellent source of his X Activator. The villagers would take their cows up to the high alps in the spring and they would feed on rapidly growing grass.


This produced a buttermilk so beneficial to the Swiss villager's health that they made a religious ceremony to show their thankfulness. Alas, this is not a readily available commodity. The only good source that I am aware of is at greenpasture.org.


For those of us who enjoy animal products and aren't afraid of a healthy intake of cholesterol, which I have addressed in another article, there are a number of tasty alternatives. For example a 3 oz serving of Goose Liver Paste consumed 2 to 3 times per week provides ample K2.


Hard cheese is a good source and roughly 5 oz contains daily needs while soft cheese would require an extra ounce or two. There are also significant albeit lesser amounts in egg yolks, butter, chicken and beef, all of which are beneficial to a healthy diet.


More information on how to prevent and heal cavities can be found at our expert author's website at culinarytidbits.com. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Thursday, 27 September 2012

What You Could Learn From A Chimp: Tactics That Get You So Fit You May Want To 'Swing From A Tree!'

Before I read up on the work of Doctors Day, Abramowski, Graham, Professor Ehret, and others - I'd never truly considered this: There is precious little separating we humans from our chimpanzee 'cousins,' with whom we share about 99.4% genes. We share strikingly similar digestive systems, nutrient needs, affinity for alkaline (not acidic) foods, lack of snout or claw for predation, a bipedal nature, and many more, in terms of physical attributes.


Yet these creatures, barring accident or injury, enjoy lives of vibrant strength and health, consuming primarily fruit and leaves - raw plants! And humans? We live lives very often cut short by miserable degenerative disease. Why is this so?


Well I'm no doctor, yet I'd say it might have something to do with the 'truck-loads' of poisons we keep dumping into our collective body that were not available to us thousands of years ago - when cancer, heart disease, and diabetes were quite nearly unknown.


What kinds of poisons?


Well, how about vaccines laced with mercury, formaldehyde, and worse? How about crops grown on over-farmed, mineral-deficient soil; which, incidentally, our government has known of since the early 1900's? What about genetically altered produce? Yes, our animal friends are smart enough to avoid these 'foods.' Geese, rabbits, pigs, and cows; they don't go near the stuff. They avoid it like 'the plague,' and go for the naturally grown.


Yet humans, collectively, seem to have little issue with the genetically manipulated. Though such 'foods,' have been linked to a host of physical horrors, including a thickening of the digestive tract, liver and kidney problems, and organ failure. And what of the masses of decaying flesh, stalled in the long, winding, digestive tract of Man, the natural plant-eater?


Might all these contribute to his present 'fall,' physically speaking? Yes, 1 in 3 Americans now develop cancer, with that figure expected to rise to 1 in 2, by the year 2020. That well might be construed - accurately, I think - as a physiological 'fall.'


So yes; Man's self-induced toxic input - his 'auto-intoxication' (along with a lack of exercise, to my way of thinking) - looks to be his present failure and 'downfall,' health-wise.


And we have allowed this to happen, while the free-living great apes, chimps, and gorillas of the world, continue on, as they have for centuries, in relative super-fitness and health.


Thus, I ask this: What can we learn from them?


A few simple, yet highly useful 'tactics,' I think.


Eat fruits and vegetables; not the excretions, skins, and flesh, of your fellow earthlings (animals, I mean). Cut stress wherever possible. Walk, or run each day. Re-connect with silence, rather than constant noise and 'input.' This gets easier as you go! Get fresh air, sunlight, and vigorous daily exercise. Don't put it off! Do 15 to 30 minutes of uninterrupted calisthenics each morning, without fail.


Do all this, and ye shall be 'released,' I say! From chains that bind where they should not.


In fact, after a month or two of living this way, I'm betting you'll have so much in the way of vibrant health, fitness, and energy, that you just may want to shut off that weapon in the corner of your living room (TV), get up off your couch, and 'swing from a tree!'


To which I say...


Go for it!


Jeff Sekerak


Jeff Sekerak is a former Alaskan Commercial Fisherman, and fast-food addict, turned 'Super-Fit Vegan.' He is the author of the book/DVD, The Super-Fit Vegan: Raw Plant Foods and Body-Weight Exercise for Natural Beauty, a Lean Athletic Body, and Life-Long health, From the Inside Out. Sign up for great, informative, useful blog updates on the 'super-fit vegan' lifestyle, at thesuperfitvegan.com Plus, read Jeff's current blog posts at thesuperfitvegan.com/blog (he's got a TON of great, free info there right now!)


Consult your doctor before engaging in any diet or exercise program. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Wednesday, 26 September 2012

Foods High in Purine Can Accelerate Gout

Let's get one thing straight; if a person wishes to avoid being a statistic of gout then they ought to resist the temptation to consume foods high in purine which have higher percentages of substances which produce uric acids. Foods which are high in purines can promote the manufacture of the acid and if excessive levels build up in a person's digestive system the end results can be destructive. If a person takes these meals out of their diet plan, then they will greatly cut down on the chances of contracting this condition which is very painful once contracted. There are certain foods which ought to be discarded from a person's diet plan if they are to evade contracting gout; and to cure gout the natural way keeping away from some food is very necessary. It might and can be very challenging to keep off such food at first but the end results are what is beneficial.


To cure gout naturally, begin by looking at your lifestyle and the diet which you partake should be deliberated upon. Some of the foods high in purine include the likes of sardines, especially the ones which are preserved by means of oil and any category of meats from animals. For example kidney, liver, brains or heart, meat gravy and beer any form which uses yeast in its manufacture (which I am sure has quite upset some people for them to know that it can also cause gout). All in all it is important that one should know that their exist of other healthy options that can significantly help a person treat gout without going through the process of using expensive medicines. Partaking of foods which have a high level of antioxidants can reduce the levels of uric acids in an individual digestive system.


Of these antioxidants, cherries come on top of the list of fruits that a person should incorporate into their diet plan in order for them to cure gout naturally but any of the cherries be can be of immense help in curing gout long as they hold the highest level of antioxidant. Bananas and watermelons are some other fruits that are also effective in treating gout since they can reduce uric acid production speedily.


To supplement the above fruits, it would be a welcome idea to augment a person's intake of vitamin C with regular dosages of high content pills. Although a person is required to avoid taking in food with a higher percentage of purine, that does not imply that a person's diet ought to be boring and bland. There are many foods that a person can still devour without running the risk of contracting gout.


All that can be said we have expounded on; having a healthy diet plan can help an individual avoid the painful after effects associated with gout. And if a person scourers the World Wide Web they can be sure of locating foods high in purine and many other recipes plus other rich variety foods that they can enjoy without fearing of the worst. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Tuesday, 25 September 2012

Drink Water, The Reason Why

We have undoubtedly been told at one point or another to drink some water.


After you are done playing a pick up game a football with some friends when you were a child, their parents, or your parents always had you come into the house to drink some water.


If you are at the gym breaking a sweat there is a drinking fountain there to help you get rehydrated.


Even at restaurants, they always start you off with a glass of water.


It is the most coveted resource on the planet because it gives all things life. All some plants need to really grow is water, and there are even some plants that can grow very well with smaller amounts of water. Some plants can store water, and some can be a source of water if you ever find yourself in the wild.


When it comes to looking at other planets that could possibly sustain life, the first thing scientists are looking for is an adequate water supply because that is the only way that planet can sustain life.


This notion of making sure that we drink an adequate amount of water has been pressed on us since the day we were born, but why?


The vast majority of our body is made up of water, and the only way we can get the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from the foods that we eat is if we consume water to help get them to the various parts of the body. Every bodily function relies on being properly hydrated.


Water is also responsible for helping remove toxins from the body as well. If you were to drink a lot of water over a short period of time you might start to see your urine turn from a yellowish color to clear. That means that your body has removed the toxins via the kidneys, and that you are properly hydrated.


Another thing to point out, and this is geared more towards those that find themselves cramping up when they are running, and some professional athletes should take note of this, but that muscle cramp is due to a lack of hydration, which is why many people have heard advice to eat a banana if you start to cramp. Another possible idea is to drink more water.


Being properly hydrated will keep your muscles from cramping up. If you are a distance runner it is critical that you consume enough, one because you will sweat out a lot of it, and two to make sure that your muscles do not lock up on you mid-stride.


We have all heard it before - make sure you have a glass of water. Hopefully you will never look at it as just that again.


Check out eatingtolose.com for more free information daily about the foods you should be eating to lose weight, new workouts to try, and some lifestyle changes you can make to help promote your weight loss. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Monday, 24 September 2012

How to Pack a Healthy Lunch for Kids

Kids today are facing a health crisis. Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that the percentage of overweight kids has tripled since the mid-1970's. According to the CDC, 12.5 million children are obese, and the problem is growing. Rates of allergies, asthma, ADHD, and type 2 diabetes in children continue to rise. The CDC has reported that autism rates have risen far above the 1 in 150 to a staggering 1 in 88 kids.


The dismal statistics necessitate a call-to-action. It's important for parents to get educated about the state of our collective health in America and learn how to incorporate healthy foods in their family's diets. A great place to begin is to take back control of lunch.


Generally speaking, school cafeteria lunches across the country are uninspiring. Menus consisting mainly of pizza, chicken nuggets, hot dogs and fries lack the nutrients essential for kids to thrive. The American College of Cardiology reported that children who purchased lunches were more likely to eat fatty meats (25.8% vs. 11.4%); drink sugary beverages (36% vs. 14.5%); and consume fewer vegetables or fruits (16.3% vs. 91.2%) than children who brought lunch from home.


But, bagged lunches aren't necessarily healthy either. Many packed lunches consist of a sandwich, chips, a cookie and a juice drink. The result of eating too much "whites", more and more of our children aren't consuming the nutrients vital for proper growth. Children are growing at a rapid rate; their bodies and brains need the nourishment for optimal growth.


As parents, it's our job to provide our children with healthy, wholesome lunches that will fuel them through the long afternoon hours at school. You can do this by choosing to pack a lunch, focusing on a whole foods plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes.


Start by involving your kids in the process. Take them to pick out a new lunchbox. Talk to them about healthy eating. Involve them in choosing, preparing and packing foods. Considering and incorporating your children's preferences will help to avoid battles and struggle over food.


Food choices are the easiest pathway to better health. Learning how to navigate the school environment successfully will give your child the tools to navigate foods and food environments independently, a skill he or she will utilize in college and beyond.


Lisa Gatti is a nutrition counselor, cooking instructor and family wellness expert. She is passionate about empowering moms with the knowledge to improve their family's health. For more information, visit her website culinarytherapyonline.com.


Interested in learning more? Lunchbox Lessons, a fun and easy mini-course promising to help you nourish your kids with healthier lunches, is available for purchase. For more details or to purchase click here: culinarytherapyonline.com/shop/lunchbox-lessons/ Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Sunday, 23 September 2012

Healthy Fat Loss Diet: Seven Foods Every Man Should Eat

This article highlights seven powerful super foods that specifically benefit men's health. These foods are packed with nutrients men need most and they are all vital in supporting sexual function, fighting various cancers, and reducing heart disease - to name just a few benefits. This article also includes quick and healthy tips for each food type.


There are a variety of healthy foods that we should all be including in our diets, but healthy eating can mean different things for each gender. Men have unique health concerns and their own specific dietary requirements. With this in mind, here are seven super foods that all men should consider eating more often.


Salmon


As well as being a rich source of protein, salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for combating a many male health problems. These essential fatty acids have been shown to reduce levels of "bad cholesterol" and are thought to significantly reduce the risk of serious illnesses such as heart disease, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer.


Quick and Healthy Tip: Add cooked salmon to an omelet for a light and nutritious lunch.


Brazil Nuts


Great as a snack, Brazil nuts are good for your heart health and your skin. They are particularly valuable for men as they are rich in selenium, an antioxidant that can improve sperm health and motility. Low selenium levels are also linked to depression, so they may even lift your mood. Just three or four per day can provide your recommended daily amount.


Quick and Healthy Tip: Add crushed Brazil nuts and mixed dried fruit to your porridge for a power breakfast.


Eggs


A cheap and versatile ingredient, eggs are also one of the most nutrient-packed foods. For men suffering from hair loss, they are ideal. Their high protein and sulfur content can help stimulate hair growth and strengthen hair follicles. Furthermore, the iron content of eggs can even alleviate hair loss.


Quick and Healthy Tip: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs to any salad or pasta dish to add an extra dimension of flavor, texture, and nutrition.


Spinach


Spinach is one of the most nutrient-rich foods, packed with plant-based omega-3's and foliate, which help reduce the risk of coronary disease, strokes and osteoporosis. Significantly for men, folic acid been linked to increased blood flow to the penis, and it may also reduce chromosomal defects in sperm. Spinach is also rich in lutein, a carotenoid that may decrease the risk of eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration.


Quick and Healthy Tip: Try blending a handful of spinach with banana, milk and honey for a sturdy morning smoothie.


Tomatoes


Tomatoes are one of the ultimate super foods and have specific benefits for men. Due to their high levels of lycopene, studies have shown they may lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and heart disease - a primary cause of death in men.


Quick and Healthy Tip: Heat chopped fresh tomatoes, garlic, chili flakes, and dried oregano for a quick and spicy pasta sauce.


Pumpkin Seeds


One of the most flavorful seeds around, pumpkin seeds is renowned for their high nutritional value. Importantly for men, research has linked them to the prevention of prostate cancer, although more studies are needed in this area. Being high in magnesium and zinc, they help maintain healthy testosterone levels and also boost sperm production.


Quick and Healthy Tip: Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds onto salads for extra nutrition and crunch.


Blueberries


Blueberries are nutritional superstars, bursting with high-quality nutrients. They contain more antioxidants than most other fruits, and are therefore linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer, heart disease and age-related memory loss, particularly common with men.


Quick and Healthy Tip: Throw a handful into ice cream or yogurt for a healthy, tangy kick.


Remember that there are plenty of other foods that contribute to a healthy diet. As well as helping you achieve more active lifestyle, these super foods could even prolong your life, so why not add more of these impressive foods to your diet, starting today.


If you need some more information on the healthy fat loss diet. Be sure to check out our low carb diet menu. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Saturday, 22 September 2012

More Superfoods For Your Fitness Journey

A beautifully sculpted sand castle is the color of our first superfood, oats. Oats, usually eaten as oatmeal, are rich in manganese, magnesium, zinc and fiber. The health benefits of oats include lowering blood cholesterol, stablizing blood sugar, and lowering risk for type 2 diabetes. The high content of manganese in oats is responsible for stabilizing blood sugar, while the fiber rich content of oats helps to lower blood cholesterol. Eating whole grains like oats, as opposed to eating processed carbohydrates, helps lower risk for type 2 diabetes due to the content of magnesium.


The benefits of oatmeal doesn't end here. The high fiber content of oatmeal helps protect against breast cancer amd reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. One serving of oatmeal provides 24 grams of carbohydrates in only 150 calories. This provides a good amount of energy to start the day. Adding milk to a bowl of oatmeal makes it higher in protein and calcium, adding even more nutrients and flavor to an already nutrient rich food.


One of the most precious gems is the blood red ruby and it's also the color of apples. But these precious dietary gems come in a wide range of colors and flavors. Green apples, which are a bit sour to the taste and yellow apples which are sweeter. As compared with other superfoods, apples seem relatively tame. They have a very high content of fiber and Vitamin C. The more commonly known nutrients are absent from this fruit. But, there are some hidden treasures stored in apples. Phytonutrients or phytochemicals are found in abundance in apples.


These phytonutrients work in synergy with vitamins, minerals and fiber to help us stay healthy. Phytonutrients stimulate the immune system, affect the hormones in good ways and act as antiviral and antibacterial agents to help us fight disease. Apples contain pectin fiber which is responsible for maintaing digestive health and acts as an appetite suppresant. Averaging around 70 calories per apple with 21 grams of carbohydrates, these portable gems give a lot of energy at a low caloric cost.


Tulips, daffodils, baby's breath, carnations and daisies are flowers that captivate us with their beauty for their myriad of colors as do the colorful array of our next superfood, beans. Beans offer a host of health benefits from protein, B vitamins, fiber, copper and molybdenum. Molybdenum is an essential mineral that is necessary for several processes in the body. Molybdenum works in conjunction with copper to control the movement and release of iron in the body. It also prevents some types of cancer and asthma. One serving of beans provides with 1/3 the daily recommended intake of protein, with very low amounts of fat. One study showed that eating a cup of beans daily for 6 months reduced dietary cholesterol by 10 percent. It contains more than half the amount of daily recommended intake of fiber. The song that goes, beans, beans are good for your heart, the more you eat the more you f... well, it's a small price to pay for the benefits derived from eating beans.


In your mind's eye, picture the earth and it's fertile soil and you'll have the color of our next superfood, walnuts. These little brown orbs are filled with Omega-3 fatty acids, derived from Alpha Linolenic Acid, and Omega-6, from Linoleic Acid. Essential Fatty Acids are responsible for a wide array of health benefits including aiding with hair and skin growth, reducing body inflammation, lowering arthritis risk, depression, heart disease and some types of cancers. Only a quarter cup of walnuts, containing 160 calories provides us with 95 percent of the recommended daily allowance of Omega-3 fatty acids and 67 percent of Omega-6 fatty acids. Add to that high levels of manganese and copper and you have a darned powerful combination of nutrients in a meager amount of calories.


These are just a few of the foods that provide us with lots of nutrients and low calories. We could add sardines, yogurt and kefir, strawberries, barley, the list is long. We simply have to make the right choice most days. Ask yourself, will I continue to have fast foods every day for lunch or dinner or will I have superfoods for lunch and dinner and lower my risk for cancer, improve my hair and skin, increase my energy levels and lose weight? Superman is a fictional character that is the epitome of goodness, helping people whenever he could. Let the goodness contained in superfoods help you every day of your life. For more information, visit fitnesseverafter.com. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Friday, 21 September 2012

More About Antioxidants, 5 Benefits From Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a flavonoid (a polyphenolic bioflavonoid, to be more accurate!) that has been identified as a very potent antioxidant. It is found primarily in purple fruits and vegetables and (luckily for some of us!) in cocoa and dark chocolate!


What makes it unique amongst antioxidants is the fact that it is able to cross the blood-brain barrier. This means that it can actually find its way from the blood into the brain and the nervous tissue where it can directly play a protective role against free radical damage.


As research continues more and more benefits are being uncovered, but for starters, here are 5 worth noting:


1. It protects the cells of the body from oxidative damage caused by the constant production of free radicals during metabolism. Some evidence of this is that resveratrol has been shown to prolong the lifespan of human cells. This, and the fact that it can enter the cells of the brain and the nervous tissue, might explain why resveratrol plays a role in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.


2. It assists in reducing inflammation. Chronic inflammation is now recognised as a major cause of chronic diseases. And it is recognized that our modern lifestyle choices are such that we are often in a state of chronic inflammation. Research has shown that resveratrol prevents the body from producing two enzymes, namely sphingosine kinase and phospholipase D, which are known to trigger inflammation.


Incidentally, this is also one of the reasons why Omega 3 oils are such important nutrients.


3. Keeping one's heart healthy, and making sure that one's blood vessels remain soft and elastic is vital for health. One indication that all is not well with one's cardiovascular health is raised blood pressure - something that we have come to accept as an inevitable result of growing older. Resveratrol has been shown to play an important role in lowering blood pressure.


4. Resveratrol plays a role in combating the spread of cancer. It has been shown that resveratrol can enter right into the nucleus of the cell where it can play a protective role for the DNA. This prevents the development of cancerous cells. In addition, it has been shown that it can prevent the spread of cancerous cells at any stage.


5. It has the ability to lower insulin levels This is a vital key for preventing disease, and even to staying younger for longer. It prevents a condition known as insulin resistance which is a known trigger for speeding up the ageing process. Untreated diabetics given resveratrol showed lowered glucose and insulin levels even if they made no changes to their diets or took medicinal drugs.


This is not to suggest that one should continue to abuse one's body by making unhealthy lifestyle choices, but rather goes to show that components of our foods are there to help us keep healthy.


Andre' van der Hoven has the following advantages when writing about health and nutrition issues: she has a keen interest in the subject, she has a strong educational background in support of this (M.Sc. in Biochemistry and Ph.D. in Immunology) and she has an interesting personal story of recovery from cancer to tell. She hopes you find something of interest in her articles. To explore further please visit her at nutrition-health-link.com and positiveoptions.gnld.net. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Thursday, 20 September 2012

How I Beat the Common Cold in About Six Hours

I was sick yesterday. It was not my choice to have to put my life on hold for a day but so it was. I read somewhere that on average we are going to be sick twice per year and that a cold lasts five days. I can live with those numbers but I choose not to do so.


The last time I was sick was during a time period where my body was under a lot of stress. I was working insane hours. I was eating poorly. I was drinking mass amounts of sugar water. My immune system was a wreck unbeknownst to me. At that time I was getting sick about once per month. I saw that as a huge waste of productivity and when I got back to work would put in more hours to make up for it. It was a cycle. I remember telling myself "No more".


When I woke up yesterday morning my throat felt scratchy, my sinuses felt dry, and my upper chest felt heavy. Maybe I was sick and maybe I was not. Should I go to work and possibly get others sick? Should I go to work a little sick and ultimately come home really sick? I chose to stay home and ensure that I would feel better the next day.


There has been an insane amount of research into colds and nobody has yet come up with a way to 'cure' a cold. That is not exactly true. Every person on this planet has the ability to cure a cold as long as your immune system is healthy. People have been getting colds since the beginning of recorded history. In those thousands of years people have noticed a lot of natural things they can do to lessen the severity of a cold and many times make it so they never even notice they were sick at all.


Because of my food choices my body has the best building blocks available. I eat raw fruit and vegetables in variety. A portion of these are blended to release the nutrients to allow my body to better absorb them. I do not take any pharmaceuticals that may reduce my resistance to disease. You should read the warning labels and do some research on any medication you are taking. If one of the side effects is a weakened immune system or possible damage to the liver or kidneys you may be doing your overall health a disservice. I also drink about a gallon of water daily. Hydration allows your cells to do the work they are designed to do.


The above paragraph can easily be turned into several books on nutrition. The average person consuming fast food is certainly not getting all the essential nutrients that they need. Do a search on Wikipedia for 'essential nutrients' to get a list of the very minimum you need to get into your diet daily to maintain reasonable health and longevity.


The above is a basis for keeping your immune system kicking. I believe that I am still exposed to colds and flu virus regularly. I have taken the above steps so that my body fights these threats off effectively without concerning me with the fact I am sickened.


I am not a doctor nor a nutritionist but I read and enjoy the topics of health and nutrition. I encourage you to at the very least go to the library and get a book on these topics. Most of the basics can be found in a $5 used text book from your local used book store. Most of the basics can be found on websites run by WebMD, the Mayo Clinic, and the National Institute of Health. Most of the basics can be found in YouTube videos by Dr. Mercola, Dr. Oz, Dr. Joel Wallach and Mike Adams (the Health Ranger). Everything I say about supporting the health of the human body is most likely regurgitation from one of these sources.


Since I did feel something coming on I did a few extra things to help support my immune system. When I woke up I rinsed my mouth with peroxide and did so several more times that day between meals. I drank a liter of water before I did anything else. I ate an orange for both energy and vitamin C. I took two time released vitamin C tablets. I ate two cloves of garlic by crushing them in my mouth. This was done in the first ten minutes of my day. Then I went back to bed for two hours with really stinky garlic breath. The wife refused to get anywhere near me before she left for work.


I drank another liter of water every few hours. I ate two table spoons of olive oil around noon. After that I ate two tablespoons of a liquid natural vitamin complex with minerals, mushrooms, and greens extracts. Every few hours I would eat two more cloves of garlic and several slices of ginger. I ate several more oranges, a couple of limes, and a star fruit. When I am sick I prefer to spend all my bodies energy on fighting whatever it is working on. That is pretty much all I ate before dinner. I did not want my body working on digesting food for as long as was reasonable.


Over the day I took an herbal supplement that contained echinacea, goldenseal root, burdock root, gentian root, cayenne pepper, and wood betony. I averaged two capsules every hour that I was awake. Before I went to bed for the night I took four more.


I felt immensely better before noon. I felt almost perfect by the time I went to bed. This morning life was normal.


If I had felt sicker or had not been eating well lately there are a few other things I would have done (and still may do). Neti pot with baking soda. Bounced on a trampoline to flush my lymphatic system. Drank more water. Soaked with epsom salts. I am not sure of any "get unsick" benefit to soaking in the bath other than it is relaxing.


John Dembowski is a research scientist who believes most health problems can be avoided through a better understanding of nutrition. Hundreds of informative videos have been compiled by his research team at Living Ezine. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Wednesday, 19 September 2012

5 Food Nutrition Tips to Help You Look Young Longer

Are you concerned that you are beginning to show the first signs of aging? The part of your body that gives away your real age is your skin. It gets easily damaged as you grow older since it becomes thin and fragile. You might be tempted to use lots of anti-aging products on your skin in order to stay young for long however they have limited effect. Your metabolism also slows as you become older. You'll find that you no longer have high levels of energy and that you also put on weight easily.


You'll find it a lot easier to look and feel young if you ensure you get the best possible food nutrition. In fact, it is imperative that you use the following tips:


- Eat lots of foods rich in anti-oxidants. Many fruits, especially berries, and vegetables are loaded with anti-oxidants which ensure that the damage caused by free radicals is reduced to the absolute minimum. Your daily diet needs to have plenty of brightly coloured foods which contain essential phytochemicals.


- Eat foods filled with vitamins. Certain vitamins help in the production of collagen and also in the replication of cells. This enables the cells of the skin to remain thick and strong, ensuring that it withstands the negative effects of UV rays and heat.


- Consume plenty of probiotic foods. These foods which contain live bacteria help improve your digestive processes. This in turn ensures that your metabolism is high and also that your body is able to absorb all the nutrients contained in your food.


- Include moisture-rich foods in your diet. Water is absolutely for healthy skin and excellent metabolism. Foods such as watermelons, cucumbers and apples ensure that you get the moisture you require.


- Add foods containing natural phytoestrogens to your diet. Phytoestrogens have the ability to put the brake on the aging process. Yams and chickpeas and also foods made out of soybeans (tofu, soymilk, edamame) are great sources.


You will definitely be able to stay young longer as long as you watch what you eat. Make sure that you pay a lot of attention to the subject of food nutrition because it is one of the keystones of good health and youth. You won't need to spend a lot of money on beauty treatments that don't even give you the desired results since your diet will take care of it for you.


Are you ready to feel healthier and have more energy?


Head over to the NLN home page and learn how to fix your diet and eating habits. Diet and health advice from a highly rated nutritionist. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Tuesday, 18 September 2012

Coleman Natural Foods

Coleman Natural Foods, established in 1875, is a pioneering American retailer of lamb, chicken, pork, and prepared foods that are produced through organic and sustainable means. The company grew out of several independent, health-minded companies that created the poultry and meat definitions for 'free range', 'organic', and 'natural' many decades before such labels became commonly used across the nation. Today, Coleman only works with small family-owned farms in America that share their belief that natural and organic is best. It was the first food-based company in the world to be awarded the ISO 14001 environmental certification, which they received in 2004. They were also awarded the Environmental Business of the Year 2004 honor by the Sonoma County Conservation Council.


Plenty of stores sell Coleman Natural Foods brands. However, if you cannot find their brands on the shelves of stores near you, then you can request the meat department manager for them. Requests by informed customers are always the best way of ensuring that good quality, healthy products find their way into stores that would otherwise have never considered selling them.


Vision


Coleman's vision has remained unchanged since its inception. If anything, the company has become even more discerning over whom it works with, and whether their visions match its own. As a general overview, however, Coleman adheres to the following two principles:


1.) The company only selects high-quality animal breeds that were raised to their strict standards (vegetarian diet, no growth hormones, no antibiotics, and no animal byproducts). The animals also need to be free range and grown in a natural outdoor environment that was free of stress, pollutants, or discomfort. For example, Coleman's chickens are raised on specialist ranches throughout California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington on a bed of rice hulls, with considerably more growing space than other chickens raised for food.


2.) The products Coleman sells are completely free of any artificial additives, herbicides, pesticides, MSG, GMO, nitrates, fillers, or any other poisons that compromise their taste and nutritional value.


Reasons to Support the Company


The reasons to support Coleman, and other companies like it, should be obvious to health and environment-minded individuals. Sustainable and organic companies like Coleman are beacons of light in a world that is becoming increasingly darkened by intensive farming and other inorganic and aggressive agricultural practices. They understand the inherent link between man and planet, and that whatever damages the health of the planet, damages the health of those whom inhabit it. If we pollute the skies, we pollute the air we breathe. If we pollute the oceans, we pollute the fish we eat. And if we pollute the land, we pollute the soil that crops require for growth.


These truths may seem self-evident to lots of people, but most agricultural companies reject them (either consciously or unconsciously) because they favor profitability over sustainability. It takes a lot of willpower for sustainable agricultural companies to remain true to their principles and continue to swim against the tide, especially when 'giving in' will result in much greater financial rewards and a chance of greater survival. So, if we value our health and our planet, then it is only fair to support companies like Coleman Natural Foods that value the same, and have taken notable steps to prove it to us.


Michael Ravensthorpe is a writer and researcher of nutrition from the United Kingdom. He is the creator of the website, spiritfoods.net, which contains interesting and useful information about the world's healthiest foods, from hijiki to Modifilan. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Monday, 17 September 2012

How Many Calories in a Pear?

Planning to eat more healthfully can consist of adding a variety of fruit to you diet, such as the healthy pear, with more than 3,000 varieties of pears around the world. In the United States there are several varieties that have become popular among customers and include the Bartlett, the Red Bartlett, the Green Anjou, as well as the Concorde. Calories in pears are low, and this juicy fruit is a great source of vitamins and nutrients.


Bartlett - 100 calories or (166.0g) per medium size Bartlett. Bartlett pears are a great source of fiber with (6.0g.) per medium pear.Anjou -60 calories per medium pear, the fiber content in the Anjou pear is only (3.6g.) Pears are packed with potassium making them a healthy snack alternative for all age groups.Concorde - 100 or (166.0g) per medium pear, the fiber content of the Concorde pear is at (6.0g) per medium pear. When seeking information on calories in pears, you should read the nutrition information as well.


Nutrition Facts


Pears contain vitamin C and B complex as well as vitamin E, along with trace amounts of vitamin A. Pears offer rich healthy fiber, as well as potassium. Pears contain no sodium, or fat, and are cholesterol free as well. Calories in pears are low, making the pear a great food option for those who want to lose weight.


Health Benefits


Vitamin C found in pears is known for building a stronger immune system to ward off illnesses and disease. Vitamin C is also known for reducing the risk of cardio vascular disease. Vitamin C is also known for keeping skin healthy and plays a role in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.


Vitamin E found in pears is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from injury caused by free radicals. Vitamin E is known to promote healthy skin, as well as prevent the risk of certain forms of cancer.


Potassium found in pears is a vital nutrient. Potassium is the ingredient the body depends on for muscle contractions, and nerve function. Potassium is necessary for a healthy heart beat as well. Vitamin A found in the pear offers skin health benefits and is known for building the immune system in order to prevent illness such as the common cold or influenza.


How to Store


Select pears that are not bruised or have soft spots, wash them gently and allow them to completely dry. Then place pears in a cool dry location to ripen. Never store this fruit in a plastic bag. Pears will keep well if refrigerated for a 2-3 days. To freeze pears, peel each pear and remove the core, then cut into slices. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of ascorbic acid in three tablespoons of cold water, sprinkle over the pears to prevent discoloration. Place the pear slices in a tray and allow them to completely freeze, then remove the pears and place them in an air tight container to prevent freezer burn.


I am a professional nutritional coach, that enjoys writing about important tips and subjects related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Sunday, 16 September 2012

Healthy Eating: Top 6 Energy Boosting Foods

Many people complain that they don't have enough energy for going to work, exercising, or accomplishing their daily tasks. Some of them still believe that taking supplements or chugging an energy drink can help recharge their batteries. All day energy doesn't come from a pill, but from real food. There are many high-carbohydrate foods beneficial to your health. Add them to your diet and you will feel more energetic and more vibrant. The secret to pure energy comes from eating simple foods that contain the vitamins and minerals your body needs.


Brown Rice


Brown rice is rich in manganese, a mineral that helps the body produce energy from protein and carbohydrates. One cup of brown rice has just 216 calories, 10 milligrams of sodium, five grams of protein, and two grams of fat. This food is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and selenium. These vitamins and minerals provide you with the energy you need throughout the day.


Eggs


Eggs are not only one of the best sources of protein, but an excellent energy booster. They contain B vitamins, which are responsible for converting food into energy. Recent studies have shown that, contrary to previous belief, moderate consumption of eggs doesn't affect cholesterol levels in the body.


Whole Grains


Eating whole grains lowers the risk of heart disease, obesity, cancer, and diabetes. These foods are rich in complex carbohydrates, so they will keep you full and boost your energy levels. Whole grains contain low-digesting carbs, which means they provide your body with long-lasting energy.


Bananas


Bananas are rich in potassium, an electrolyte that helps maintain muscle function. They are one of the world's finest foods for supplying energy. Loaded with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, bananas are ideal for times when you need a little energy boost.


Fatty Fish


The oil found in fatty fish like tuna and salmon boost your metabolism and regulate blood sugar levels. Fresh or canned, these foods deliver two essential nutrients: protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that fatty fish not only help you maintain a normal weight, but increase energy levels and lower blood pressure.


Sweet Potatoes


One small sweet potato contains only 54 calories. These foods are packed with fiber, complex carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamin C. Complex carbohydrates supply energy more slowly and take more time for the body to break down. Potassium helps build muscle and supports cardiovascular function. The vitamin C in these foods promotes healing and reduces inflammation.


Healthy eating is essential for the proper functioning of your body. Whether you want to lose weight, have more energy, or build muscle, you need a well balanced diet that contains nutritious foods. For more information about eating healthy, check out DSM Food. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Saturday, 15 September 2012

Super Foods Known To Fight Cancer

The world has no idea that certain humble foods we find in our kitchens or perhaps in our gardens, can be a Life Saver for someone battling against cancer. People only believe in Medicine or Science, but sadly, not so much in Mother Nature or God's Providence. If only we had faith like that of a mustard seed! We could visualize that Mother Nature has provided us with the most natural resources potent enough to stave off cancer.


What are Super foods? Why are they so different? In truth, Super foods are basically foods that are high in anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic and packed with rich nutrients that are health beneficial. They are the most powerful and effective cancer killer foods, that have yet to be fully utilized!


You might laugh it off and say, "Yes, I know!" Still, here they are:-
Tumeric - Containing Curcumin. it is a yellow spice and one of the most currently researched cancer fighting food. Not only does it combats, but also able to block cancer growth and can reduce tumours by an astounding eighty-one percent!
Papaya leaf extract - Without having the negative consequences of Chemotherapy, papaya's powerful impact against lab-grown tumours has been documented. It is capable of eradicating various cancers including breast, liver,lung, pancreas and cervix. Besides, it supports and boosts the immune system.
Garlic - Centuries have shown how garlic has benefitted the prevention and treatment of diseases, most notoriously known also for fighting cancer. The production of a compound in garlic called hydrogen sulfide, mainly attributed to garlic's ability in preventing various cancers... apart from affording protection to the heart.
Ginger - It is a cousin spice of tumeric and is known for its ability to shrink tumours! Its anti-cancer properties additionally reduce inflammation as it is enriched with life enhancing antioxidants. It is effective in reducing flatulence too.
Sour Sop - This is a super duper, potent Killer of cancer cells 10,000 times more efficient than chemotherapy! It contains annonacin, a cancer cure properties and vitamins. You can make tea from its leaves and bark to alleviate headaches, cough, diarrhoea and back pain.
Chorella sorokina - This a marine-plant like algae and is another super food enriched with all the nutrients and powerful antioxidants to ward off inflammatory and degenerative diseases of the spine & knees.


Author: Mary Lee Scully. Blogger: Profile User: maryleescully.


God in his Divine Mercy and Providence, has nurtured us through Nature - with vital Super Foods that are necessary to heal and help us fight against deadly diseases that are detrimental to our health being. All that is required is to seek and find these natural resources, which to us is like a Fountain of life and health! Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Friday, 14 September 2012

How Many Calories in Cantaloupe?

Cantaloupe is in the melon family. The outside of the cantaloupe has a rough texture, with a light brown exterior. The inside of the cantaloupe is yellow or bright orange. The cantaloupe is related to the honey dew melon as well as the watermelon. A ripe cantaloupe will have a sweet taste and a light texture. When seeking information on how many calories are in cantaloupe, you will need the size of a serving as well.


Fresh Cantaloupe - 50 calories or (134.0g.) caloric content is based on ¼ of a medium cantaloupe. It offers a feeling of fullness for those people who are wishing to lose weight.Fresh Cantaloupe - 60 calories or (177.0g.) per 1 cup serving of cantaloupe balls. This sweet fruit contains only 1% fat.


Nutrition Facts


Cantaloupe contains many essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, vitamin C, and potassium. Cantaloupe contains 28mg of sodium, with total carbohydrates at 14.4g. Vitamin A at 120% and Vitamin C at 108%, Iron at 2%, and 1.5 grams of protein. Cantaloupe is high in fiber as well. When seeking information on how many calories are in cantaloupe you should read the nutritional facts as well.


Health Benefits


Vitamin C found in cantaloupes offer health benefits that include antioxidants known to reduce the risk of some forms of cancer. Vitamin C is also used to build a healthy immune system in order to ward off illness and disease. Vitamin C is known for assisting with the formation of collagen, the substance in the body that aids in healthy skin, ligaments and muscles. Folate found in cantaloupes is necessary for growth and development, and is necessary for those who are pregnant.


Folate is believed to lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Folate is often used to treat anemia. Potassium found in cantaloupe offers health benefits such as. Lowering blood pressure, and kidney stone prevention, as well as healthy brain function. The heart is also dependent on potassium in order to function normally. Potassium is believed to be a treatment option for those who suffer from mental illness such as anxiety and depression. The best form of potassium is found in protein rich foods, such as cantaloupe offering pure potassium in its best form. When seeking information on calories in cantaloupe you should read the health benefits as well.


How to Store


Cantaloupe will store well on a kitchen table or counter at room temperature, but will last up to three weeks longer if stored in the refrigerator. Always wrap cantaloupe tightly before placing them in the refrigerator in order to prevent aromas from being absorbed into other foods. After cutting cantaloupe keep cut surfaces covered tightly, and use cut cantaloupes within three days.


I am a professional nutritional coach, that enjoys writing about important tips and subjects related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Thursday, 13 September 2012

Using Cherry Juice to Treat Gout

The value of eating various types of fruits to sustain the body and keep it healthy is widely-acknowledged. Even so, using the cherry juice to cure gout is a very powerful option to reduce the swelling and inflammation related with gout. Cherry fruits are obtained from a variety of limited numeral species, together with cultivars of the commonly known wild cherry, (Prunus avium). Cherries are loaded with flavonoids, anthocyanins and antioxidants that have natural therapeutic substances.


After thorough research by researchers; it has been revealed that antioxidants that are present in the cherry fruit help in fight free radicals. In conditions like cancer, the enemies of the body assault cells, while spreading the disease. On one hand, flavoniods, which are well known in fighting cancer; serve to curtail inflammation which mainly attacks the tissues and joints.


Another important compound that helps in curing gout and that is found in cherries is the anthocyanin. The compound is part and parcel of the flavonoid unit; research shows that this compound doesn't only add on to the fruits brilliant hue, it serves like an anti-inflammatory motivating force which is considered necessary in the fight against gout by the people who suffer from the disease.


The anthocyanins compound blocks the production of enzymes which fuel the inflammation in the tissues and joints. The uric acids crystals which are generated from the prostaglandin get on the offensive on the joints, although they can get inhibited by the anthocyanin which is found in cherry juice.


Many studies on gout that have been conducted by leading worldwide universities the world over confirm that by eating cherries regularly lowers a persons uric acid content, which combats the destructive enzymes that block oxidants thus; restoring destroyed tissues while also restoring proteins.


Studies indicate that if a person eats cherries recurrently can help in combating the risks allied with the illness called gout. It doesn't matter whether a person consumes dried or fresh cherries or cherries that are served in some other form the end result is the same. Most patients who have partaken of the cherry fruit have realized that the cherry fruit juice is not only sweet but is their preferred method of treating gout since it bears powerful healing properties. For people who are suffering from the gout disease, the cherry fruit is a potent therapeutic alternative; and most people who previously suffered from the ailment say that if only they knew of the fruits healing properties they would have started using it even earlier. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Wednesday, 12 September 2012

How Many Calories in a Tangerine

The tangerine is a sweet juicy fruit that is orange in color and easily peeled. It is usually purchased in large quantities in the South during the Christmas season. Tangerines are kin to an orange, as well as the Mandarin and offers versions of both seedless and seeded. When seeking information on calories in a tangerine, there are several facts to consider such as the size of the tangerine and the portion.


Clementine - 35 calories or (74.0g.). The Clementine tangerine is the sweetest version of the tangerine varieties.Dancy - 50 calories or (109g.). The Dancy tangerine contains 3 grams of fiber. The fiber content in the Dancy tangerine is at 12% of the recommended daily allowance.Lee Mandarin- 45 calories or (98.0g). The Lee Mandarin is high in dietary fiber at 2.0 grams each.Minneloa Tangelo - 70 calories or (109.0g) per medium tangelo. The Minneloa Tangelo contains nine calories from fat. Calories in tangerines include a small portion of fat per serving.


Tangerine Nutrition Facts


Tangerines contain essential vitamins such as vitamin C, B-1, and B-2, B-6. Tangerines also contain 1.0g of protein. Tangerines have many essential minerals as well including carotene, calcium and iron. Tangerines are sodium free and low in fat. Tangerines contain no cholesterol as well.


Health Benefits of a Tangerine


Vitamin C found in tangerines known for building a healthy immune system offering protection against illness and disease. Vitamin C is also believed to prevent some types of cancer. Vitamins B-1, B-2, and B-6 found in the tangerine offer health benefits such as protection from heart disease. Vitamin B-1 is believed to protect the eyes against the formation of cataracts. Vitamin B-1 is believed to improve brain function.


Vitamin B-2 contains antioxidants that offer protection from certain types of cancer. Vitamin B-2 is believed to offer protection from certain types of cancer as well. Vitamin B-6 is the vitamin many people take to ward off symptoms of fatigue.


Carotenes are found in tangerines as well, and are believed to lower cholesterol or the (HDL bad) cholesterol, while at the same time raising the (LDL good) cholesterol. It is believed that carotene intake will improve lung function. Carotene has been known for decades for its health benefits related to vision, as those who have a diet containing carotene often have better vision than those who do not have carotene. While searching for information on how many calories in a tangerine you should read all of the health benefits as well.


How to Store Tangerines


You should always choose tangerines that are firm and plump free of blemishes or spots. The ideal way to choose tangerines is to visit an orchard and pick your own. Rinse the tangerines in cold water and pat them completely dry. Place the fruit you plan to use right away in containers away from direct sun light. Tangerines stored at room temperature will last for 2-3 days. Unwrapped tangerines can be placed in the refrigerator up to a week.


I am a professional nutritional coach, that enjoys writing about important tips and subjects related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Tuesday, 11 September 2012

Fish Recipes With a Dose of Poison

Health Magazines have become a premiere go-to for those who are health conscious and trying to make better choices. The problem: being a health magazine doesn't mean the information they publish is healthy. Very often their information is outright harmful...


Case in point: a nationally distributed magazine with various fish dishes in their food section for a particular issue. They provide several recipes and then they take the time to insert a special little box to address the issue of highly toxic, dangerously harmful metals like pcb's and mercury that are found in fish. They suggest not eating it every day, limiting intake to a certain amount or frequency, and to avoid completely if you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant (that last one should be a good clue of toxicity).


TRANSLATION: It's toxic stuff, but if you eat it only 3 times a week you won't die immediately.


You know your body can handle arsenic in small amounts too; it doesn't make it a good idea to put it on the menu.


The next thing this bad advice article says is to buy from "sustainable" salmon farms.


That sounds nice but "sustainable" salmon farms aren't sustainable at all. Forget the medication and the genetic bio-engineering franken-salmon, but just the dye they use to get the salmon to be pink is toxic. Real salmon is beige; have you ever seen beige salmon in a store?


Several years ago, after enough people got seriously sick and their illness was tied to a chemical dye used for salmon, Canada finally banned it. The next day the manufacturers turned to a different chemical (well, named different, slight modification of ingredients makes that legal)... so now we wait another 10 years for a few more thousand people to get sick, and the chemi-go-round just keeps turning. One thing for sure, ban all you want, there will always be a lineup of replacement poisons waiting, usually by the very same suppliers.


If this dangerous advice was posted by some lonely blogger from his armchair it wouldn't be as deadly; but when it is printed in a premiere "health mag" that is distributed nationally and they describe themselves as "Canada's Natural Health and Wellness Magazine", the average person will just assume that the information is credible. THAT is a very dangerous assumption.


And with toxins like this, you would never immediately know what's happening... but somewhere down the road when your immune system gives out because it is exhausted from battling toxins, "suddenly" you have liver failure or malfunctioning thyroid or pancreatic problems or auto-immune disorders or, or, or, or... there's no end to that list. Virtually any part of you can break down and because of our various genetic codes, it will be different for everyone. Of course since it take years to get there, it's almost impossible to connect it back to the cause.


A weakened immune system makes you susceptible to anything and everything. Poisons in food might be small enough doses to be legal, but they add up and eventually your body will break. You are not made of steel, so don't eat like you are (even steel erodes and rusts).


COMMON SENSE: avoid arsenic, avoid mercury, avoid any toxin you can avoid in all amounts and give your poor body a hand - it's already busy battling the air you breathe and water you drink every day.


Jaqui Karr makes nutrition fun, sexy, and sinfully delicious! Check out this video about her awesome nutrition club called "The Party" and how it can help YOU look and feel your best: jaquikarr.com/theparty. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Monday, 10 September 2012

Is Vitamin C A Super Antioxidant Capable of Incredible Abilities to Cure Disease?

There is a controversy raging about what vitamin C can do to stop the world wide epidemic of heart disease and occlusive strokes, as well as preventing and intervening in many other major diseases.


The mainstream medical industry and the allopathic medical model may be grossly underestimating the role vitamin C can play in cures for major diseases that have become so common in this industrialized world we all live in.


There is evidence that vitamin C acts as the ultimate biological antioxidant, fighting free radicals and destroying infection. Antioxidants are not just another alternative medicine health nut fad but actually a central aspect of life on Earth. Antioxidants like vitamin C are essential for good health and disease prevention in our increasingly hostile toxic environment. Without taking in antioxidants on a daily consistent basis your chances of developing serious health conditions like cancer to heart disease may go way up.


The RDA (recommended daily allowance) of vitamin C set by the FDA is actually developed by Allopathy Inc. which is a cover for the medical and pharmaceutical industries. The allopathic medical model focuses almost entirely on patentable drugs, surgery and radiation treatment as the primary answer to healing and curing disease, as opposed to the use of nutrients, nutritional and preventative medicine therapies.


The RDA for vitamin C is set very low at 75 to 90 milligrams which is way off what current scientific studies are finding. 2000 or more milligrams is closer to the amount of vitamin C we should be taking in to make a real difference in dealing with these major diseases.


One of the conclusions that many people are reaching concerning why the RDA is set so low for vitamin C and many other nutrients is that the allopathic medical industry does not want it to be known that a simple inexpensive natural strategy like high doses of vitamin C could actually reduce the massive incidence of heart disease, strokes, cancer, infectious diseases and other major sources of illness.


It is not the individual doctors that are perpetuating this misinformation, most doctors care about their patients and want the best for them. It is the medical establishment controlled by the pharmaceutical, hospitals and other components of the for profit medical industry. There is no profit in simple natural solutions for preventative medicine. The profits are in the focus on illness and disease after you are sick, using expensive solutions like pharmaceutical drugs, expensive hospital costs, high cost medical insurance.


If people were preventing illness before it can get started using nutrition and antioxidants like vitamin C in far larger amounts than are being recommended the basis for profits off illness and disease would decrease substantially. The allopathic medical establishment does not want this to happen. This is why critically important information about preventative nutritional strategies are suppressed. Studies on vitamin C are routinely denied funding.


It is clear to me that this allopathic medical model does not work or we would not be seeing the levels of out of control disease and illness in rich countries with all the foods and medical resources that are available.


If you are interested in a deeper understanding about all this and want to educate yourself about the use of vitamin C and preventative medicine strategies consider reading the book Ascorbate by Doctor's Steve Hickey and Hilary Roberts.


Michael writes about health and wellness in the specific area of nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices. He is a health and wellness coach in the San Francisco bay area. One of his areas of interest and expertise is in using super foods for optimal health. Visit his website at camucamuberry.com and learn more about the incredible healing power and health benefit of this Amazon Rainforest plant. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Sunday, 9 September 2012

What Is The Link Between What We Eat And How We Feel?

We know that the main reason we eat is for pure survival, however, there are numerous other reasons why we eat at all but many know that people eat as a way of coping with what they are feeling inside, their emotions.


It has been suggested that when a person or persons find it difficult to contain what is inside of them, they use food as a way of coping with their feelings.


This piece of writing will examine those emotions, perhaps identify the triggers that make our body eat/snack etc and the repercussions of our actions on our overall health and well-being.


Why do people still feel the need to eat even though they are not hungry?


Have you ever found yourself snacking when you have nothing to do i.e. sitting on the sofa watching television?


We are often told to eat 5 times a day, 3 meals with 2 snacks, however, these are planned snacks to balance out the other meals that we eat so that our blood sugar levels remain steady.


Grabbing a snack randomly because you 'feel like it' is very different and can have overwhelming effects.


Nutritionists and scientists observing people's daily food habits have discovered that many people are eating more calories than suggested without even realising they are doing it.


Many people eat to give them a sense of 'fullness' within their bodies, but they are simply replacing a feeling of emotional emptiness with a physical feeling of fullness.


A very common feeling of emptiness is pure boredom. We know that when people are bored, they turn to snacking to pass time and although one would think there is no harm in doing this, this type of snacking has been associated with the many overweight people in this country.


Snacking without purpose means that often people are seeking a 'quick fix' so they do not stop to consider what they are actually consuming, they grab whatever quick snack they can find which is normally a carb heavy, processed snack. People do not stop to consider the calories in these snacks either and often they are more calorific than people first think.


Ironically, eating these snacks may make you feel full very quickly, but in the same way can also very quickly make you feel hunger again causing you to snack again and eat more food.


How can food comfort us?


Another emotion we can experience that causes us to eat (sometimes excessively) is loneliness. It is more commonplace for people to live alone nowadays coupled with the increase use of technology can mean that many people live at home, work from home and so therefore their contact with others can be reduced increasing the risk of feeling alone can this can lead to depression.


When someone feels alone, they think that the answer is to eat something. This is because when we eat, it can release dopamine in the brain and dopamine is one of the chemicals that can make us feel good, however this solution is short-lived and that is why people continue to eat what makes them feel good thus making it a very difficult cycle to break. People just want the feeling to last so they continue to snack to get that 'feelgood' factor.


From a very early age, our bodies and minds are trained to connect celebrations with food i.e when it is someone's birthday everyone celebrates by having cake. Sometimes special days at school are celebrated with treats. That is not to say that having treats and having cake is wrong. Where the problem lies is that people sometimes work so hard with being good, focusing on eating the right type of food, and exercising well, but throw it all away but rewarding oneself with sometime bad. Again this is another cycle difficult to break.


Whatever the reasons for eating, whether you feel lonely, are missing something or want to celebrate and reward yourself, trying to understand the real reason behind your own eating habits and why you are eating more than needed, is a huge step to learning how to curb what you eat.


Andy Blackwell is a renowned personal trainer Bromley and also runs a specialist, premium Bromley fitness bootcamp. He is a great track record in helping clients overcome emotional eating issues and transform their bodies. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Saturday, 8 September 2012

Negative Effects of Skipping Breakfast

Many people have a hard time functioning in the morning, so they wake up as late as they possibly can. Unfortunately this rids them of the time they have to prepare a healthy breakfast that contains all of the nutrients needed to begin the day. Think skipping breakfast every day will help you lose weight and stay healthy? Think again. Read on to learn about the negative effects of skipping breakfast:


1) Lack of Energy


This is one of the most negative effects of skipping breakfast. Eating after waking up helps restore glucose to your blood giving you the necessary energy to be productive throughout the day. Glucose is the fuel your cells need to produce energy and levels of it significantly drop while you're sleeping. By eating breakfast, you will feel energized and able to take on your responsibilities more efficiently; you will find that your ability to concentrate and focus is also improved.


2) Weight Gain


If you consistently skip breakfast, you may notice that you are starting to gain weight or your weight loss efforts are failing, this is a pretty negative effect of skipping breakfast! Eating in the morning helps reduce your appetite later on in the day. This helps you avoid reaching for the wrong food or overeating later in the day. Also, waiting until the afternoon to eat will put your body into 'starvation mode' causing it to store more fat.


3) Destabilizes Your Mood


If you feel moody in the morning, it could be because you are skipping or aren't eating a sufficient breakfast. Consuming breakfast regularly can stabilize mood swings, improve irritability, and even decrease depression. This is due to the fact that eating supplies your body with energy it needs to properly function.


4) Poor Nutrition


Skipping breakfast, or any meal for that matter, cuts out a significant opportunity for you to supply your body with essential nutrients. By eating a healthy, nutrient-dense breakfast, you will jump start your intake of protein, complex carbohydrates and even fruits and vegetables. It is known that those who eat breakfast are more likely to eat healthier during the rest of the day.


Hopefully after reading about the negative effects of skipping breakfast, you will be convinced to wake up a little earlier to prepare yourself a healthy meal; even something simple as cereal with milk and fruit will jump-start your metabolism better than not eating anything. Eating breakfast will prove to be beneficial to your health-start tomorrow to feel the positive effects!


PSCLife.com wants to help you live life to the fullest! Stop by our health blog for tips, stories and information on all things YOUR health. Shop our site for low cost, innovative health supplements that will enhance your mind and body. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Friday, 7 September 2012

Summer Foods

Did you ever think that it is beneficial for your body to choose foods seasonally? It is!! There are a few reasons why this makes sense.


Seasonal foods are in abundance and cost less. In addition there is a growing trend to support your local farm based sustainable agriculture industry. Also now that the summer months bring higher temperatures it becomes practical to choose lighter meals. Enjoying cold soups and smoothies are quick to prepare and offer variety.


Fresh spinach, arugula, chard and kale are loaded with fiber, vitamins and minerals and are versatile. Stir fry, grilled or salad whatever you prefer; even using those large green leaves as wraps for sandwiches or cut into bite size pieces for h'or oeuvres opens up creative uses of everyday green.


Additional vegetables like carrots, peppers, eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini and squashes all lend themselves to being marinated for a quick and easy grill meal. Put them on pre soaked skewers for vegetable kebabs. I included a favorite marinade of mine. The same grilled vegetables blended with herbs like cilantro, parsley, or oregano and blended with fat free cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese or yogurt will provide an instant healthy dip.


Since it is summertime and cold foods are so refreshing why not consider trying blender drinks based from vegetables. Spinach, kale, cabbage, and carrots, blended with granny smith apples, frozen banana or pitted black cherries make wonderful smoothies. Add protein powder, flax seed and you've got a filling tasty portable meal or snack that packs nutrition to last you three to four hours. Another suggestion for using available vegetables is to create an easy handy snack by mixing crushed whole grain crackers mixed with oil (olive, walnut, sesame, macadamia) or even a nut butter, seasoned to taste and pressed into muffin tins large or small. Fill with layered grilled vegetables topped with parmesan cheese (ala lasagna), bake in 375 degree oven and serve immediately or cool and freeze for later use. Last but certainly not least roasting vegetables on the grill or your oven will bring out the natural sugars contained in beets, carrots, tomatoes, corn, and peas, without additional calories.


Onto summer fruits; now that berries, melon, mango, peaches, plums, grapes and cherries are abundant start to freeze them for the coming fall and winter seasons when prices rise. These fruits can be added to fat free yogurt, soy or regular milk or even frozen yogurt to create smoothies that are far less expensive than store bought. With the addition of protein powder and a handful of nuts or nut butters you will have a tasty refreshing beverage that will keep your appetite in check for 3 hours. If there are children in your family these is a wonderful way to get them interested in food preparation. To start being creative with available summer fruit: why not try adding berries, or diced fresh fruit to your favorite salad and garnish with nuts. Another suggestion is to use your ice cube trays to freeze pureed melon and convert into instant Ices. There are available molds for ice pops at a low cost and can be used over and over.


A wonderful "go to " strategy to quell sweet urges are sucking on frozen grapes or one dark chocolate covered frozen strawberry and/or banana pieces. May not sound great but I have gotten great feedback as an instant gratification that works for dieters.


Think about creating your signature summer drinks with available fruit; lemonade, water that has been infused with sliced peaches or sweet melon. Not only does it taste great and is thirst quenching but will save you money.


I hope this has inspired creativity in your summer food menu. I have included a few of my favorite recipes:


Marinade for vegetables:


Olive oil, crushed fresh garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend and let sit for 30 minutes before serving.


Choice of soy sauce, hot sauce, crushed red peppers can be added and will intensify flavors. Set vegetables in bowl with marinade and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes. Discard marinade and grill or roast those vegetables.


Summer salsa to serve with vegetable kebabs:


#1: Crushed tomatoes, diced green pepper, cucumber, scallions and pickles. This is very tasty with fish and sea foods.


#2: Diced peaches, minced celery, onion and cherries. This is good with lamb, and chicken.


Favorite summertime dip:


#1: Fat free sour cream, minced red onion, white horseradish, avocado, sea salt and pepper to taste.


Summertime smoothie:


1 cup soy, skim or fat free yogurt (6oz,) 3 ice cubes, 1 cup frozen fruit of choice, 2 scoops protein powder,1 tbsp flax seed ground, water to create consistency of choice. Blend to smooth consistency.


Bernice Borow RD, CDN, specialist in weight management helps her patients to achieve success as they improve their health and wellness. She is passionate and dedicated to helping you succeed. Learn more at berniceborow.com. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Thursday, 6 September 2012

Nutrients You Should Include in Your Diet

It was always important to stay healthy but considering the ongoing competition in every field and sector today it's more important. It won't be wrong to say that nutritional requirements for people have changed over a period of time. So just hitting gyms and gorging on protein rich diet isn't the solution to live healthy to stand correct to all possible situations of a life.


A mix of both smart work out even out for mind and body and a balanced food with some new ingredients is a new contemporary fad. Hence, if you are looking to stay fit for longer then you will now have to shed your old perception that might not work the way you till now perceived. Let's read in detail about the kind of nutrition you should always include to stay healthy and food and nutrients that you must avoid.


i. You don't have to consume sugar as you already have a balances level of sugar in your body. Sugar is often used to enhance the flavor of the food. If you are buying products that are less in calorie then you should also ensure its sugar level.


ii. People are prone to get de-motivated after a while. But it shouldn't deter you. The results are prone to get delayed but you should always acknowledge your journey and the reason you have started it. it will highly inspire you to stay in track and get the results on time.


iii. If you believe on protein supplements then you should first consider consulting with your fitness trainer or doctor to ensure weather they are good for your health and body or not. Besides, the most effective protein rich diet that you can afford every time is eggs. You should every day include eggs your regular diet. In fact, you shouldn't eat yolk. Eat the white boiled part which is rich in protein and other effective nutrients. Yolk increases both fat and cholesterol level which is unhealthy.


iv. Most people have their focus on protein rich diets to stay healthy. Hence, they often neglect eating diet rich in fiber. Fiber is an essential nutrient that reduces your chances of obesity, diabetes, and other heart disease. You should more often consume soluble fiber which is also one of the most effective ways to detoxification of the body. According to the report, both men and women must consume 30 and 20 grams of fiber respectively every day. Grain foods are high in fiber and you can also opt for fiber supplement after the consultation of the fitness trainer and doctors.


v. You must also avoid breakfast that is rich in sugar. Most people prefer to take light breakfast rich in sugar. In fact, some cereal breakfasts are sweetened of sugar which is unhealthy. You should not starting your morning with sugar. Another excellent way to lose weight is to try substituting dairy ingredients. If you use lower fat dairy products, it is better for you. Substitute plain yogurt for sour cream when you make dip.


Evaporated milk that is fat free can also be substitute for cream. If you love cream cheese, you should try to substitute ricotta cheese. You can make these substitutions and still enjoy tasty foods that include dairy.


Aforementioned tips on nutrients will help you stay healthy and face the challenges that a daily life bring to every human.


Village Green Apothecary is a premium name in providing quality Compound Pharmacy to its clients. Its services include Custom Vitamins, Health Supplements, Pharmacy Maryland etc. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Wednesday, 5 September 2012

Up Your Energy

Low-energy plagues everyone now and then. There are many factors for temporary low-energy, like a bad night of sleep, an illness, extra exercise, or stressful life events, like a funeral or wedding. Experiencing low-energy occasionally is a normal event. It's a chance for our body to heal and come back to normal.


But if you are suffering from low energy every day, there may be other underlying health factor at work. When our body is healing, we draw energy normally used for activities and mental clarity. Prolonged times of healing can indicate a more serious condition.


While there are many causes of low-energy, two of the most common reasons are not allowing our body to sleep a full nights rest and excess sugar consumption. Both of these are well within our control.


Most people need between six and eight hours of sleep a night. It is what our bodies do best on, not what we feel is convenient for a lifestyle. Some people may need more or some people may need less. Unfortunately, most people try and live their lives on 6 1/2 to 7 hours of sleep a night. Things like alarm clocks, the nightly news and other poor habits cause people to stay up later than they should and wake up earlier than they should.


The best way to combat this is to go to bed 15 minutes earlier every night until you naturally wake up and feel well rested. As a body gets used to getting more sleep, you will find you need less on a normal basis. It will then be very easy to tell when you're going through a healing crisis, because your body will demand more rest.


If you suffer from insomnia, allow your body to sleep when it needs. As your body gets used to sleeping when it needs, the circadian rhythms will reestablish themselves and you will find yourself being able to sleep during the night.


If you're one of those people who must wake up exceptionally early with an alarm clock, the same rules applies. Start going to bed earlier.


Excess sugar consumption is also a huge factor. When our bodies absorb too many carbohydrates, the extra output of insulin causes us to be sleepy.


A great example of this is Thanksgiving. Yes, there is a small amount of tryptophan in turkey, but not enough to make anyone sleepy. The lethargic feelings come more so from the mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, bread filled dressings, cranberry sauce, carrots, buttered bread and desserts. It's estimated that a typical Thanksgiving dinner can have 500 to 1000 g of carbohydrates. We only need about 100 g of carbohydrates a day to function normally.


In a normal day, the typical American eats between 300 and 500 g of carbohydrates. This is 3 to 5 times the amount they should be eating. The body needs to take care of all these extra carbohydrates and generally stores them as fat.


A great way to combat the sleepiness is to start cutting down your carbohydrate intake until you no longer feel sleepy after you eat. You will start to learn which foods cause you to be sleepy.


Other causes for low-energy include thyroid diseases, cancers and blood pressure problems, medications and just about every other disease out there. If you're not experiencing other symptoms, it's recommended to try getting more sleep and reduce your sugar intake. If neither of these improves your life significantly, talk to a doctor that's open to natural healing methods. They will be able to help you explore parts of your life and diet that may be contributing.


If you test positive for any one of the diseases are problems that can cause low energy, make sure you're still following a lower sugar diet and getting good rest. Both these have been proven in studies to help all healing methods. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.

Tuesday, 4 September 2012

10 Fundamental Benefits of Healthy Intestinal Flora

These fellow travellers are in fact essential for our good health. As science explores this further, we are learning that the truth of this statement goes far beyond what we ever thought. So it is in our interests to pay some attention.


For starters, here is a list of 10 fundamental benefits to be had by taking care of the health of our intestinal bacteria:


1. Good gut bacteria aid in digestion. This is important as we can then get the greatest benefit from the food that we eat by extracting all the important nutrients that the body needs to function properly.


2. The bacteria produce essential nutrients for us to absorb. These include some of the B vitamins and Vitamin K, for example.


3. Good bacteria prevent infection with pathogenic (disease-causing) bugs. If the bad bugs get a footing in our bowels they cause a lot of damage to our health even if it is not obvious to us. For example, they make our gut porous (called Leaky Gut Syndrome). When this happens, substances that should be kept out are able to get through the gut wall and into our bloodstream, poisoning us in the process.


4. Good bacteria protect us from developing allergies. Children who grow up on farms are far healthier than those who grow up in rather sterile environments - largely because the latter have compromised intestinal flora! The current trend towards using antibacterial soaps in ordinary domestic situations is wreaking havoc with the health of our kids as a result.


5. Good bacteria protect against ailments of the digestive tract such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and even cancers.


6. Healthy immune systems depend upon healthy intestinal flora. A healthy immune system is fundamental to wellness as it is the defense line against invading pathogenic organisms as well as our own cells that mutate (as a starting point for cancer).


7. Weight control is easier if the intestinal flora is healthy.


8. The bacteria help to protect us from toxins that we ingest in our food and water. They do this by destroying the toxins before they have a chance to enter our bloodstream.


9. A healthy skin depends on healthy intestinal flora.


10. A healthy circulatory system depends on the right intestinal flora e.g. elevated blood cholesterol and high blood pressure can be better controlled.


What we might not understand, too, is that our modern lifestyles do not naturally support a healthy intestinal flora, and that we need to actively pay attention to this if we wish to stay as healthy as possible.


Andre' van der Hoven has the following advantages when writing about health and nutrition issues: she has a keen interest in the subject, she has a strong educational background in support of this (M.Sc. in Biochemistry and Ph.D. in Immunology) and she has an interesting personal story of recovery from cancer to tell. She hopes you find something of interest in her articles. To explore further please visit her at nutrition-health-link.com and positiveoptions.gnld.net. Providing quality nutrition reviews online.