Health Nut Wannabee Mom

Another great song by Adele.. Set Fire To The Rain! Amazing Lyrics and Voice!

2012-01-11T21:20:00.000-08:00

COME HOME DADDY CAT!!!! Missing Sweet cat:(

2012-01-05T09:20:00.000-08:00

Missing!!! Feral cat I feed everyday and sleeps in my garage has been missing for a week now. We miss him so much so if you see him please contact me! Putting up posters in my neighborhood too. We need to find him.

COME HOME DADDY CAT!!!!

Woohooooo It's My Birthday and I am Still Here:) LOL

2011-12-27T14:18:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe it that another year has gone by so fast and here it is my birthday today!!! Sometimes I am amazed I made it this far but so glad I have as even in the hardest of times I have found there are lessons and appreciation for the best of times. Cheers:) Heidi

"Thanks to modern medical advances such as antibiotics, nasal spray, and Diet Coke, it has become routine for people in the civilized world to pass the age of 40, sometimes more than once." Unknown

A Little Surgery And I Now Know I am Not Invincible! Doing Great!

2011-12-07T20:00:00.000-08:00

A quick update to all...... I had surgery a week ago today-nothing serious and some elective and some not. If anything it has taught me to respect my body and the limits I have to respect so it can heal. I thought I could have a 4 hour surgery get completely cut open from side to side and go to work 5 days later. Well I did go back 5 days later but it hurt so I had to stay home today and listen to what my body was saying-rest Heidi you stubborn girl!!!!!! I am used to being on the go,go, go and running and all kinds of exercise. Now to bend, stand up straight, cough, even laughing hurts. I am going back to work tomorrow to try again bc I do find it so hard to be isolated at home in bed. This time I will take it much easier and not think I can be up and running around all day. I believe in the power of positive thought as well as taking all the millionsof meds the doctors have given me as well as some natural remedies I have researched on my own. The doctor says I can get back to running in about 6 weeks which I welcome but my scars may take up to a year to heal which is okay with me. With each experience my body goes through... child birth, surgery, etc I respect it even more. May not write too much but maybe more since I do feel pretty isolated. Miss you all:)

To keep the body in good health is a duty... otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.
Buddha

Adele-Some Like You-Beautiful Song-Gives Me Goosebumps!

2011-11-09T10:52:00.001-08:00

Sorry I am so behind but so much coming! Yes I am alive:)

2011-10-07T18:45:00.000-07:00

I have been remiss in writing my beloved blog and I am sorry but going to be back soon. Both kids were sick and work is crazy busy. Excuses, excuses, excuses I know so no more! I have a really great product that my friend Robin let me try and I loved it and learned alot so my next post will be sharing that with you. Also, a great book of natural food health remedies that I cannot wait to tell you about so....... I miss all my blogger friends and am alive and well just wayyyyy behind. :))))

"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away. "
Henry David Thoreau

In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.
Coco Chanel

Pay no attention to what the critics say. A statue has never been erected in honor of a critic. ~Jean Sibelius

When there is no enemy within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you. ~African Proverb

For Fun!! Friday Foto! Fast Food Anyone??

2011-09-15T19:41:00.001-07:00

Food Comas! What Our Bodies Really Do After A Meal! Guest Blogger Today-Patricia Walling-

2011-08-30T08:16:00.000-07:00

photo by infinitycat

Today I am excited to share with you a guest blogger! This is a fascinating article that dispels everything I thought about why we get so tired after eating a meal and the what are bodies are really doing after eating that turkey on Thanksgiving!!

Why do People Get Food Comas?

Have you ever just wanted to fall straight asleep after a large meal? Do your kids often curl up and fall asleep after meals? Often we call this happenstance a food coma, but the scientific term used in medical coding for it is actually post-prandial somnolence, which pretty much just means “after-meal sleepiness.” Typically, a food coma can send people who have just eaten into a drowsy state that can last from a couple of minutes to a couple of hours. People used to think that blood from the brain was sent to the stomach for digestion after eating, and that this decreased blood flow from the brain was the reason for sleepiness after a meal. However, it has been proven that this does not happen at all, and that blood is diverted from muscle tissue to the stomach during digestion. Additionally, the brain is provided with adequate amounts of oxygen and blood flow in a regular fashion during digestion.

What is actually going on basically that in order to produce energy from food, some energy must be expended in order to break that food down in our digestive system. There are two specific things about this process that produces a food coma. First, the nervous system responding to digestion in the stomach will use up some energy in order to try and battle off any incoming germs or bacteria. Secondly, and this is the biggest factor in a food coma, the central nervous system will use energy break down sugars entering the blood, which is why there can be such an intense crash after a sugar high because of the amount of energy spent processing that much sugar. As food arrives in the stomach, the nervous system begins to kick in and activates the breakdown of the foods into usable energy. After eating, the body feels it has achieved its goal of attaining food and no longer must be on point to capture another meal, so some recharging is alright.

Eating foods that are higher up on the glycemic index, i.e. take less time to release sugars into your bloodstream, will cause glucose (sugar) to be metabolized quickly from the intestines into the bloodstream. To keep glucose levels stable, the pancreas delivers insulin to the bloodstream, which is what your body uses to break down sugars into energy. Insulin tells the body to absorb sugars, but it causes the body to stop processing an amino acid called tryptophan. You may have heard about tryptophan as being the reason why everyone falls asleep after large turkey dinners, but it turns out this compound is about as equally present in other meats like beef and chicken too. In any case, since tryptophan levels in the body usually stay pretty constant, the body will have an overabundance of it when insulin is delivered. This causes the brain to convert tryptophan into serotonin, which makes for that feeling of contentment you have after a good meal. Then in turn, serotonin can be converted into melatonin, which is the hormone that makes you sleepy.

If you want to avoid getting food comas, say if you need to do some work after a meal or something, you can try eating more foods that are lower on the glycemic index like fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. Eating smaller portions can also help prevent food comas as it will allow the stomach to more easily process it into usable energy. You can also alleviate food comas by doing physical activities after eating such as jogging, walking, yoga, or Pilates. These exercises can help move glucose into your muscle without the associated feelings of drowsiness.

About my guest blogger:

Patricia Walling is a web content designer in Washington state for

several websites regarding the field of medicine and careers in health
care. A self professed perpetual student, she finds herself drawn to
researching even the most esoteric information she comes across that
she doesn't already know something about. She likes travel, cats,
dogs, and children, and above all is interested in healthcare, its
history, and its future.

Quick And Natural Way To Fight Bloating! Fennel Tea Will Kick That Stored Water’s Booty!

2011-08-22T12:25:00.000-07:00

Bloat, bloat, bloat makes me feel like a big boat. Okay that is a truly not cool rhyme (and probably saying the word “cool” is not cool but I’m no spring chicken and like my old days lingo) but being bloated really does make me feel huge and then the clothes get tight and that sets an entire chain reaction of woe is me. But really, if you are like me and have a little water weight to lose now and then below is a quick and easy fix without any pills.

Drink some fennel tea! To flush approximately 5lbs of water weight in 3 weeks sip 2 cups of fennel tea daily. Our bodies use stored water to keep cool but half of women hold on to too much. This is especially true in the summer-just in time for swimsuit season-ironic isn’t it.

Worldless Wednesday! First Day of School! Izzy Starts Kindergarten & Ava Is In 3rd Grade! Time Flies!!!!

2011-08-17T10:13:00.001-07:00

So Proud of you Ava and Isabel!!!

I love you:)))

After A While! To My Good Friend Brad!

2011-08-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

This is something different for me but I wanted to share a beautiful poem by Veronica Shoffstall . I first read this when I was 15 or 16 and it really made me think. Now after so many life experiences it is invaluable to me. I hope it gives you some comfort as well!!
Love, Heidi
After a While
After a while you learn
The subtle difference between
Holding a hand and chaining a soul
And you learn that love doesn't mean leaning
And company doesn't always mean security.
And you begin to learn
That kisses aren't contracts
And presents aren't promises
And you begin to accept your defeats
With your head up and your eyes ahead
With the grace of a woman
Not the grief of a child
And you learnTo build all your roads on today
Because tomorrow's ground is
Too uncertain for plans
And futures have a way
Of falling down in mid flight
After a while you learn
That even sunshine burns if you get too much
So you plant your own garden
And decorate your own soul
Instead of waiting
For someone to bring you flowers
And you learn
That you really can endure
That you are really strong
And you really do have worth
And you learn and you learn
With every good bye you learn.

Arrrribbbba! A Skinny Pina Colada With Don Q Rum Means Lots Of Fun (Even If Your Not In The Sun)! Can You Say Ole'!

2011-08-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

www.donqrum.com

Yes, it is true!!!!! The words skinny and colada in the same sentence and even better in the same drink!! I have always loved Pina Coladas but in the past they were only for those times when I was allowing myself a little caloric luxury as the average Pina Colada has over 600 calories. Sad, sad, sad:( But now thanks to delicous DonQ Coco rum I can put on my sombrero sit on the deck, close my eyes imagining I'm on a beach and sip a DonQ skinny colada (okay maybe 2 umm well maybe 3-they are hard to resist).

The other thing I like about this colada is it is quick and easy to make (with no pre-mixes) because when I'm in the mood for a sombrero night of fun easy and delicious are a must! So without further ado I give you the Skinny Colada recipe! Enjoy!

DonQ Skinny Colada

2 oz DonQ Coco Rum
1 oz Unsweetened pineapple juice
1/2 oz Coconut milk

Mix all ingredients with ice in a blender at high speed.
Serve in a stemmed glass
Garnish with pineapple slice and cherry
Sombrero hat and mariachi band optional (just kidding)

ONLY 152 calories
(see now you can have 5 of these instead of one of the old school Pina Coladas-Ok just kidding but calorie wise that is true)

If you go to the DONQ rum website at www.donqrum.com they have all kinds of delicious recipes that are simple to create and delicious to taste. They have a Coquitos, Coco Splash, Coco Bongo (I love that name) , DonQ Lazy Mojito, and many, many more!!!

Arrrrribbbbaaaaa ! I see a skinny colada with my name on it so I'm out of here for now! Enjoy!

Rolling In The Deep:) You Know!

2011-08-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

Go UnDiet! Grab This Book! 50 Small Actions For Lasting Weight Loss!

2011-08-04T10:58:00.000-07:00

I cannot tell you over the course of my life how many diets I have been on and tried. Actually I don’t remember the last time that I didn’t try a new diet or join in on the latest Hollywood weight loss craze (remember Jennifer Aniston and the baby food diet, or the Dukan Diet or the Master Cleanse that Beyonce supposedly did). Yes, I have tried them all with some success but only to gain weight once I hit the Cheetos and chocolate again. There is nothing worse than eating baby food all day (and I didn’t like it even when I was a baby) or drinking lemon water with molasses or whatever that was and gazing over while everyone else had a burrito just so I could somehow be miraculously perfectly thin overnight.

What I finally learned is that in order to maintain and lose weight I have to exercise (I LOVE running) and I have to eat healthy foods in the right way. I thought I pretty much had the eating healthy and weight loss all down (yes I know eating a family size bag of Cheetos and 20 mini fun size Snickers with some wine is not healthy) but I could not imagine that there was still so much to learn so when I was given a copy of Gloria Tsang’s book, Go UnDiet to review I was more than pleasantly surprised at all the small changes I could make for lasting health and yes of course being thin. Thank goodness the ideas and suggestions in this book are simple, easy and delicious and they sure beat eating only pineapple and papayas or boiled eggs for a week in another one of my crazy attempts at dieting.

Thinnity For Infininty Or Following the 50 Small Actions For Lasting Weight Loss in the book Go UnDiet

There are so many things about this book that I loved that I am not sure where to start! Gloria writes this book like she is in the room having a conversation with you and makes this an easy read without all the complicated mumbo jumbo that a lot of books have that makes readers like me want to toss the book in the river. As hard as it is to condense this book down (because as I said there are so many helpful lifetime actions) I picked out a few actions that are my favorites!
Just a Few of Heidi’s Favorite tips from the Go Undiet

-Bring on the beans-Gloria tells us that beans ARE vegetables and don’t have to be lumped in another food group and used as substitutes for meats or nuts! They are a great source of fiber and protein and the best part is they really make you feel full which will help you to skip the banana cream pie!

-Add color and carbs to your plate-All fruits and veggies are considered carbs. Carb foods actually have fewer calories by volume than any protein foods and one cup of veggies on your plate has at least five times fewer calories than an equal volume of meat. Add a variety of colorful fruits and veggies and eat a variety from different color groups for optimal health benefits! Focus on eating fruits and vegetables from three different color groups at every meal!

-Un-complicate your breakfast cereal-Stock a basic grain cereal (choose one that lists whole grain flour as the first ingredient and contains less than four grams of sugar and five grams of fiber per serving) and mix with others that your love! So you are really getting the best of both worlds here!

-30 snacks under 200 calories-Takes the thinking out of healthy snacking-1/2 cup carrot sticks, 3 tablespoons hummus and a 4 inch pita one of my flavor favs! So many more great ideas with all the calorie info!

-Top 60 super foods- Blueberries, chickpeas, mushrooms, edamame, green tea and tomatoes just to name a few and these are foods you can put in your daily meals (sorry no chocolate or martinis on the list).

This book really is a way to learn how to live a healthy life without dieting and how to do it simplified for life! Gloria Tsang also has a website http://www.healthcastle.com/ where she compares popular foods and gives even more great tips! I am so glad that I had the opportunity to read and learn from this book… no more diets for me because I am now the Undiet girl!! Grab this book oh and let's not tell Gloria I'm eating a chocolate chip cookie right now... but hey now that I know how to eat better I can sneak in a treat or two right?! Sigh...

Gloria Tsang-Author of Go Undiet

Re-post-One of my favorites-Beautiful Costa Rica!

2011-07-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

Someone asked me what were some of my favorite posts. This one brings up great memories so I am reposting.
:)))))

"You can clutch the past so tightly to your chest that it leaves your arms too full to embrace the present. "~Jan Glidewell

"If you are still talking about what you did yesterday, you haven't done much today. "~Author Unknown

Iguana at the JW Marriott in Guanacaste

"The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong." ~Mahatma Gandhi

Playa Avellana

I have just returned from a relaxing and spectacularly beautiful Costa Rica! I love going there and the natural beauty never ceases to amaze me. It was great to see some old friends and meet some new! Anyway, home now with lots of great things to write about soon! I tried some amazing Don Q Coconut Rum with a low cal Pina Colada recipe I want to share and tried some incredible CocoaWell vitamins that had to be the reason for me feeling so energetic and amazing and read a terrific book about how to be healthy and trim with the Undiet!!!! Can't wait to share all these things with you as soon as I get back into my routine here in a few days. Time to get back to my running and eating well too because vacation was far too fun!! Here
are just a few pics of my vacation!

Deanna and I at Hacienda Pinilla

I would like to send out a special thanks to my dear friends in Costa Rica who made our visit so special and so much fun! You know who you are:)

Pretending to pose for geriatric version of Sports Illustrated. Silly

Vitamin D You Are The One For Me! 10 Reasons To Get Your Vitamin D! Eat These Foods And You Will Be Sunshine Happy

2011-07-19T07:49:00.000-07:00

The benefits of vitamin D (often known as the sunshine vitamin) keep surprising researchers as the list of benefits from it keep showing themselves. Just take a look below at all the benfits your body can reap from a little of the sunshine vitamin. Now I will admit absolute disappointment to not see Cheetos, chocolate and martinis on the food list below but I guess I can't have everything.

10 Great Reasons To Get Your Vitamin D

1. Brain- Cuts stroke risk-may help prevent depression

2. Eyes-Lowers risk of macular degeneration

3. Mouth-Decreases risk of gum disease

4. Heart-Lowers chances of cardiovascular disease

5. Lungs-May reduce lung cancer risk

6. Breast-Cuts chances or breast cancer

7. Back-Lessens likelihood of chronic pain

8. Legs-Fights age-related weakness

9. Calves-Lowers risk of blocked leg arteries

10. Bones-Strengthens

Vitamin D Rich Foods

Wild salmon 3 oz = 420 IU

Atlantic mackerel 3 oz = 320 IU

Sardines 1 can = 250 IU

Shrimp 3 oz = 150 IU

Skim and 1% low-fat milk 1 cup = 100 IUS

Shittake mushrooms 4 items = 260 IU

Fortified yogurts like Dannon Light & Fit 1 cup = 80 IU

Fortified cereals:Multigrain Cheerios 1 cup = 40 IU; Post Bran Flakes 1 cup = 40 IU; Kashi Vive 1¼ cup = 80

Now with all these benefits I can understand why my cats love to find a place in the nice warm sun and curl up. Keep in mind that current U.S. guidelines recommend for 200-600 IU of D per day (depending on age) but many experts recommend at least 1,000 IU of D per day. So, by eating vitamin D rich foods, taking a vitamin D supplement or whole food multi (that is what I do-see pops in the upper left hand corner) and getting 15 minutes of sun on your hands a few times a week you will be all set!

Source-December 2008 Good Housekeeping

“The Sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” Jacques Coustea

2011-07-13T09:36:00.000-07:00

Has there ever been a place in your heart and soul that feels you with awe, wonder and complete serenity? I hope so because having that place even if it is far away is such a source of unbelievable joy. I have a place like this and I think of it every day and the memories (most of them anyway-lol) give me peace.

Something happens to me when I sit on the sand and watch and listen to the waves. It is like nothing else I have experienced in my life and such a wonderful serenity and gratefulness of being there. The memories and sounds in my mind calm me on a bad day and constantly renew my faith and spirituality. I love the natural beaches of Central America because they are not full of shops, and clubs and people but instead surrounded by jungle mountains, iguanas and monkeys and my favorite meal that I can only get there. I am counting the days until I will be sitting on the beach with a foo foo drink taking in the beautiful sounds and scenery.

I hope you too have somewhere that gives you this!

“It’s hard for me to put into words why I like the beach so much. Everything about it is renewing for me, almost like therapy...Beach Therapy”

--Amy Dykens

“The beach is in our blood. Everyone in our family returns to the beach instinctively, just like the sea turtles.”

--Sandy Archibald

Sappy Sunday-Colbie Caillat- I Never Told You!

2011-07-10T18:20:00.000-07:00

I think most of us have someone that we think of when we hear this song. Beautiful voice and I love the ocean scenes. Makes me even more excited to be at the ocean in a couple weeks!!

Heidi's Favorite Meatless Foods! No Need To Have A Cow Look Below and See How!

2011-06-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

My good friend at work Peaches (Keith) came up to me and was asking me that since I am a vegetarian and he is considering becoming vegetarian for health reasons if I could offer any advice on things I like to eat, meals, etc. I rattled off several of my favorite options and told him that I would send him a list of things that I have tried and loved so he would not have to go through the process of spending lots of money on icky vegetarian products. He then asked me if I had a list on my blog and it hit me that I don’t and have no idea why because I should since it just might help anyone else out there wanting to be a vegetarian or just try some meatless options.

Below are some of my favorite vegetarian products that you can buy in most grocery stores. Now these are my favorites and you may like something else but I have tried some vile stuff and I say all below ooozzzzzeeeeee yumminess and are free of animals. By the way nobody is paying to put them on my list although I wish they would because I would like a vacation soon. Lol

Heidi’s Favorite Vegetarian Products!

Boca Flame Grilled Meatless Burgers-MMMMM… Grilled or on the oven these are my favorite meatless burger! They have 5 grams of fiber and only 1 net carb with 120 calories and 14grams of protein. I love these with sautéed mushrooms, mustard, lettuce and tomato. Best taste and I have tried a lot!
Lots of great recipes and product information at their website Boca.

MorningStar Farms Veggie Crumbles, Veggie Bacon, Veggie Sausage Patties, Links-Pretty much anything from MorningStar Farms I love. Their corn dogs are to die for too!!! They also have entrees like lasagna with the meatless crumbles, and a veggie chik enchilada as well as a new biscuit with veggie sausage in it. Their website gives some great recipes and product information… MorningStar Farms

Amy’s Kitchen Natural and Organic Foods-Okay again so many wonderful entrees and products but my two personal favorites are the Organic cheese enchiladas (my kids love these too) and their spaghetti rings with veggie meatballs. They have so many incredibly good and healthy products that it is very hard to choose but I have NEVER tried anything of theirs that is not outstanding!! Probably one of my favorite brands. Amys

Yves Veggie Cuisine Veggie Dogs, Pepperoni, Salami, and Bologna- I like this brand a lot for the lunch meat and hot dog substitutes. I have not eaten their veggie crumbles, brats, or veggie chicken but they are on my list to try. Yves

Quorn Naked Cutlets and Turk’y Roast-These are hands down the best meatless alternatives when it comes to a meatless chicken breast or meatless Turkey roast. I make the Turk’y roast on holidays and it is amazingly simple and delicious! Sometimes I have to double check the box to make sure it really is meatless .lol. They have other products as well like a Gruyere meatless chicken breast and it is beyond words good! Quorn

Tofu-Believe it or not I have not I have not even come close to mastering making good tofu even though I have been a vegetarian for 20 plus years. I don’t know why but I can’t seem to make it to where I like it. I do know the extra firm tofu is the best as far as taste. If you have any recipes that are easy (that’s the key word-easy) let me know! I am forever trying to find a way to make good tofu or I would settle for even edible at this point.

LightLife Smart Deli-I love their faux turkey and ham deli meat!

Tofurky- Great meatless turkey lunchmeat and jerky, also a tofuky roast and gravy. Very good.

Now, I also eat tons of fresh (try for organic when I can afford it) veggies and fruits, lentils, black beans, whole grain breads, hummus and well of course chocolate and Cheetos (we all have to splurge). I don’t really care for milk or eggs but if eating eggs only do the organic, cage free where the chickens are treated kindly and not pumped full of antibiotics and other unhealthy things as well as either soy milk or Organic milk. I am sure that I have forgotten some things but I think above gives you a good idea of some delicious meat alternatives. I think I’m off for a piece of triple chocolate cake now-all this healthy talk is making me crave some sugar balance:)

Heidi

Bikini Mom Body Wanted and a Big Bad Belly-Daily Mail Belly Tricks!!Bikini Mom!!

2011-06-23T08:51:00.000-07:00

Ohhh the dreaded bikini and the very, very, very bright sun that exposes every inch of us. Sigh. Well I am always in search of new ways to banish my booty and belly (amongst other things) and saw this article in the Daily Mail today! I love it and the tips in it are some that I have been told by trainers and nutrition experts. I hope that this will help you feel a little more confident in your swimsuit. My personal favorite tips are the eating of the good fats, exercise, lots of water, eating mostly fruits, vegetables and nuts (I am a vegetarian so don't do the lean meats they recommend ). I like to run but since my ankle has been bad I have had to tone it down and do maybe 4-6 miles 4-5 times a week instead of the 10 miles I was doing most everyday and that has been hard on me so I have been compensating in my eating by focusing on hummus and carrots or nuts for snacks, egg white and vegetable omelets and unfortunately not nearly as much wine as I would like. lol. Also, I like the recommendation below of doing weights because that really does help in that the more muscle you have the more you are going to burn calorie wise.

As you can see by my bikini pic I am a work in progress and trying everyday to improve my health and body but the temptations of my beloved sodas, Cheetos, chocolate and wine make it hard. I don't care what anyone says.... there is no way a berry tastes as good as delicious chocolate.

Anyway, enjoy this great article-it is a bit long but very, very, very helpful!

Heidi

How to tame your tum: Is yours a spare tyre or a stress bulge??? Finding out your tummy type is the key to getting a perfect midriff

By Daily Mail Reporter

For many women, getting bikini ready means tackling one dreaded area in particular — our tummies.

Most of us still think the best way to achieve a washboard stomach is by doing hundreds of sit-ups. Not so, says A-list trainer and body guru James Duigan.

James, who sculpts supermodels Elle Macpherson and Rosie Huntingdon-Whiteley among others, insists there is no ‘one size fits all’ method for getting a flat belly. Instead, he’s identified five key ‘tummy types’, all of which require a different approach to achieve successful toning.

Get a flat stomach: First you need to identify your tummy type

Once you’ve identified your type, you can transform it following James’ tailor-made plan and get that flat tummy fast.

THE SPARE TYRE TUMMY

The spare tyre: This is one of the easiest tummy troubles to eliminate because it's caused by eating the wrong foods and not exercising enough

HOW TO IDENTIFY THIS TYPE

These people are likely to lead sedentary lives, perhaps with jobs that keep them desk-bound. They may also have an emotional attachment to sugary foods.

Luckily, this ‘spare tyre’ is one of the easiest tummy troubles to eliminate as, according to James, it’s caused by eating the wrong foods and not exercising enough.

TYPICAL BAD HABITS

‘If you exercise very little, eat lots of sugar and refined carbohydrates in products like biscuits, cakes and white bread, or rely on starchy carbs like pasta and rice, you probably have an overweight tummy with accompanying fat on your legs and hips,’ says James.

MIDRIFF MAKEOVER PLAN

Cut down on alcohol. ‘Alcohol is a fat bomb for the tummy — pure sugar which goes straight to your waist and stops you burning all other fat until the booze has been processed,’ says James. ‘Just a few glasses three to four times a week will lead to a “wine waist” — a thick midriff and podgy tummy. ‘If you want to drink occasionally that’s fine, but the bottom line is that you have to cut back on booze to get a flat belly.’
Once you cut out alcohol for two weeks, it’s time to overhaul your diet. ‘In a nutshell, eat well and move more,’ says James. Avoid low-fat and so-called ‘diet’ snacks. ‘These pre-packaged products are often packed full of chemicals, refined sugar, salt and preservatives to give them flavour.
‘Ditch calorie counting in favour of a healthy diet full of unprocessed fresh foods such as fish, eggs, organic meat and vegetables. ‘Start the day with eggs and smoked salmon, or even grilled chicken and vegetables, and snack on sliced lean meats. ‘And don’t be afraid of eating good fats, such as avocados, nuts and oily fish. These encourage your body to burn midriff fat, giving you a flat tummy.’
‘Exercise is the key to helping this tummy type,’ says James. Simply going for a long walk, doing lunges, squats or dips at home or a yoga class will be beneficial. You don’t need a gym.

TOP TIP FOR THIS TUMMY

If you regularly reward yourself for a hard day with a piece of cake or deal with bad news with a biscuit, it’s important to remember that being beautiful is as much about how you feel as how you look. The starting point for any tummy transformation is feeling happy.

THE STRESS TUMMY

Stress tummy: These types are typically over-achievers with perfectionist personalities

HOW TO IDENTIFY THIS TYPE

Stressed-tummy types are typically over-achievers with perfectionist personalities. They are usually also susceptible to digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause bloating and make their tummies look far worse.
‘Stress tummies are easy to spot, as the weight is specific to the front of the midriff and the umbilical area,’ explains James. ‘When stressed, we produce cortisol, a hormone which encourages the body to cling on to fat around the stomach.’
Stressed tummies will also be fairly hard to the touch, rather than wobbly.

TYPICAL BAD HABITS

It’s likely you skip meals, abuse your adrenal system with too much caffeine and grab junk food for convenience.

MIDRIFF MAKEOVER PLAN

Get an early night. ‘Stressed women nearly always sleep badly, which disrupts the production of leptin, the hormone which helps regulate appetite and metabolism,’ James explains. ‘This is why we eat more when we are tired and crave fat-depositing sugary snacks for an instant energy boost.’
Combat exhaustion with a relaxation strategy of deep-breathing, meditation and long baths before bed to encourage a good night’s sleep and limit coffee consumption to no more than two cups a day.
Don’t go for the burn when exercising. ‘Excessive cardio which increases cortisol levels isn’t the answer,’ says James. ‘Instead, yoga, long walks and resistance work with weights is perfect for sculpting and building up strength while calming the system.’
Magnesium is a calming mineral to help soothe a stressed belly. James advises eating lots of magnesium-rich foods such as dark green leafy vegetables, Brazil nuts and seeds.

TOP TIP FOR THIS TUMMY

Stress-busting stretches and yoga poses at night time can help to lower cortisol levels, while chamomile teas or James’ own Bodyism Body Serenity supplement (£30 for 20 servings, bodyism.com) can also help the body unwind.

THE LITTLE POOCH

The little pooch: These women are likely to be busy mums or have demanding careers - hey may even be a gym junkie

HOW TO IDENTIFY THIS TYPE

These women are likely to be busy mums or have demanding careers. ‘They may even be a gym junkie, but stuck in a workout-and-diet rut, perhaps always eating the same foods and doing the same routine at the gym, which keeps you slim but leaves you with a lower belly that spoils your silhouette,’ says James.

TYPICAL BAD HABITS

‘Doing excessive crunches and using gimmicky gym items such as ab-rollers can place a strain on the hip flexors and the lower back, causing the tummy muscles to protrude so your belly sticks out,’ says James.

MIDRIFF MAKEOVER PLAN

Good nutrition and plenty of fibre are essential to improve digestive conditions such as inflammation, bloating and constipation, which can make a pooch tummy worse. Green leafy vegetables, oatbran and wholemeal grains are good, natural sources of fibre.
Sit-ups done incorrectly increase your lower back curve and accentuate the ‘pouch’ effect. Swap sit-ups for planks. Do these by lying face down on a mat, resting on your forearms. Push off from the floor, rising onto your toes and elbows, so your body is parallel to the floor from your head to your heels. Start off doing ten seconds and build up to a whole minute.
It’s a common misconception that using weights bulks women up. In fact, the opposite is true. Using weights will burn serious amounts of fat in a short space of time, so try introducing circuits — repetitions of exercises like squats or lunges which work individual muscle sets.

TOP TIP FOR THIS TUMMY

Be kind to your tummy, reduce inflammation by drinking lots of water and eating easy-to-digest foods such as green vegetables and lighter proteins such as fish and chicken.

THE MUMMY TUMMY

The Mummy tummy: Women with these bellies have usually given birth in the past few years, and, being a typical mum, have little time for themselves

HOW TO IDENTIFY THIS TYPE

Women with these tummies have usually given birth in the past few years, and, being a typical mum, have little time for themselves. ‘After giving birth, the uterus drops and is much heavier than it was pre-pregnancy,’ says James. ‘It takes at least six weeks to return to its usual size, so don’t even think about trying to get a flat stomach until after then.
‘You need to re-train your pelvic floor and lower abs to increase blood flow and strengthen loose muscles.’

TYPICAL BAD HABITS

Rushing back to exercise too quickly. ‘I would suggest waiting around two to three months,’ says James. ‘Being stressed about getting rid of your baby weight will only make you cling onto it more. Give yourself a break!’

MIDRIFF MAKEOVER PLAN

‘Fish oil supplements turn on fat-burning hormones and turn off fat-storing hormones,’ says James. ‘Begin by taking three 1,000mg capsules a day with meals and build up to five. I’ve trained Elle Macpherson through two pregnancies and she takes these every day.’
Try to eat good fats — found in sources such as nuts, oils and olives — every day. ‘Not only do they help you burn fat and absorb vitamins from food effectively, they also help combat tiredness — a big help for tired mums,’ says James.
Gentle pelvic floor exercises (known as Kegels) act as a natural corset for the body to flatten your tummy from the inside out. Squeeze and clench your pelvic floor muscles 15-20 times, in five sessions a day.
Steer clear of sit-ups. ‘After giving birth, the linea alba muscles — which run down the mid-line of the abdomen — separate and you need to allow them to recover,’ says James. ‘Crunches are the worst thing you can do, as they will force these muscles farther apart. Instead, breathe deep into your tummy while on all fours, then slowly exhale while doing a pelvic floor exercise.’TOP TIP FOR THIS TUMMY

Daytime naps (try putting up blackout blinds) and stretching before bed are important ways to restore sleep hormones and boost fat-burning.

THE BLOATED TUMMY

Bloated tummies: These are often flat in the morning, but swell throughout the day with gas or indigestion

HOW TO IDENTIFY THIS TYPE

Bloated tummies are often flat in the morning, but swell throughout the day with gas or indigestion. Bloating affects both slim and overweight women. It is almost always caused by food intolerances and allergies, or sluggish bowels as a result of a poor diet.

TYPICAL BAD HABITS

You eat the same foods and may have done so for a lifetime without realising you’re intolerant to them.

MIDRIFF MAKEOVER PLAN

‘The most common intolerances I see are wheat and gluten (bread, pasta, pastries, pizza, cakes and cereals), alcohol, yeast (in muffins, beer and pastries) and processed dairy (cheese, milk, butter),’ says James. ‘Gluten in particular can inflame the bowel and make the stomach look bigger.
‘Experiment to work out what bothers your belly as you know your body better than anyone else. Try eliminating key culprits such as gluten for a fortnight to see if your bloating reduces, or worsens when you reintroduce foods. Focus on a diet with lots of fresh veg, meat, chicken and fish.’
Sluggish bowels are often a result of eating the wrong foods in the wrong way. Make breakfast your biggest meal, as this is when digestion is at its peak, and avoid eating late at night which leads to bloating. Chew food properly and drink plenty of water to keep the digestive system moving.
Bloating can be a sign of imbalanced gut flora. So to get your tummy really flat you need to repopulate it with friendly bacteria. Prebiotic and probiotic supplements are the simplest way. Natural sources include miso soup, sour cream and some fruit and veg including kale, garlic and onions. A healthy gut means a flat stomach.

TOP TIP FOR THIS TUMMY

Believe it or not, breathing can be the best thing you can do for this kind of tummy. Try this each morning: lay on your back, completely relaxed, and breathe deep into your tummy ten times. After eating, a walk will help the digestive process, too.

Meal Patterning Food Target (Chris Johnson) Chart-Kiwi, blueberries, mmmmmmm

2011-05-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

Below is Chris Johnson's meal patterning food target chart. There is a book that goes with this but I wanted to show you the chart because it provides a simple way to see what you benefit from eating and what you do not benefit from. For example, blueberries, kiwi, olives, fresh greens are in your best and white starches and soda are poor. I can look at this wheel and it simplifies my shopping!

Hope you enjoy!

Oh how I love these Nike Just Do It Ads! I remember these from years ago! Inspiration for the soul!

2011-05-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

I remember many years ago when Nike came out with the Just Do It ad campaign and I was hooked and loved it! They had wonderful ads that motivated and spoke to me-they hit home because it seems we all in one way or another can relate. Here are a few of my favs! Enjoy some inspiration for the soul.....

“Sooner or later, you start taking yourself seriously. You know when you need a break. You know when you need a rest. You know what to get worked up about and what to get rid of. And you know when it's time to take care of yourself, for yourself. To do something that makes you stronger, faster, more complete. Because you know it's never too late to have a life. And never too late to change one.” Nike

"Too often we are scared. Scared of what we might not be able to do.

Scared of what people might think if we tried. We let our fears stand in the way of our hopes. We say no when we want to say yes. We sit quietly when we want to scream. And we shout with the others, when we should keep our mouths shut. Why?

After all,we do only go around once. There's really no time to be afraid. So stop. Try something you've never tried.

Risk it. Enter a triathlon. Write a letter to the editor. Demand a raise. Call winners at the toughest court.

Throw away your television. Bicycle across the United States. Try bobsledding. Try anything. Speak out against the designated hitter.

Travel to a country where you don't speak the language.

Patent something. You have nothing to lose and everything everything everything to gain. JUST DO IT." -

1992: Barry Sanders

"All your life you are told the things you cannot do. All your life they will say you're not good enough or strong enough or talented enough, they'll say you're the wrong height or the wrong weight or the wrong type to play this or be this or achieve this. THEY WILL TELL YOU NO, a thousand times no until all the no's become meaningless. All your life they will tell you no, quite firmly and very quickly. They will tell you no. And YOU WILL TELL THEM YES." - Unknown Nike

"Why are we so hard on ourselves

and so much easier on others? Did somebody

say something once that stuck in our brains and won't

go away? Did we mispronounce something in French,

did we trip in front of some guy, did we make some

huge mistake that we've never gotten over?

What haunts our fine bodies and our fine

hearts and makes our heads spin with an image

of ourselves we can't accept? We tell our

friends not to be so hard on themselves and we tell our

loved ones not to be so hard on themselves and we tell

ourselves

we're just not being hard enough.

We are such funny women sometimes. We

blame ourselves when blame does not apply (terrible

word, that blame). We feel guilty about what we should

have done better (terrible word, that should). We are

harder on ourselves, harder than we would be on

anybody else, anybody. Complete strangers! Big dogs!

People we don't even like!

And the things we expect are so darn

weird, things our mothers once said we should be

able to do or our fathers wanted us to achieve or our

great Aunt Charlotte wanted us to try and they didn't

know that their words would stick

like glue to our hearts with a list of

expectations wrapped around it. Look: all these

expectations get old, real old, and only you know

when to yell uncle.

Uncle. Uncle. Uncle.

Because for one moment of your life you feel like

feeling ... perfect. You feel like dashing into those hills

or those open roads or right into the air itself

and that's just what you might do

so Ha

You feel like that rusty old image you carry

is slipping away, right over the edge of a mirror and out

of view. You feel like moving and if you trip, you trip, if

you fall, you will get up. And the air feels like it will

carry you and push you and it's like nothing your feared

it would be. And of course everything you expected it

would. Nike

The last paragraph in the last ad is the one that I can relate to when I run! I feel so free and the world is behind me and I can do anything in that moment."

So as Nike says (yes I'm being cheesy here)..JUST DO IT:)

Diet Soda & 48% Risk of Stroke-Izzy Graduates Pre-School, A Vacation and Accepting Horatio is Gone!

2011-05-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

A few quick things today-the sad news first is that Horatio my cat has been missing over a week now so I am beginning to accept that regardless of the flyers, reward, and endless searching-he is probably not coming home. I am just hoping that he is safe and okay wherever he is. I miss him terribly but I don't know what else I can do to find him so now I have to get through my sadness at the loss of him:(

On a positive note-Izzy my 5 year old is a pre-school graduate and is on her way to kindergarten next year! Woohoooo go Izzy:)

And now for the very astounding information Ann the trainer told me today! I love, love, love my diet Coke! I LOVE it and look forward to it so much! Well I have not had any diet Coke in 4 days (which is hell pure hell) so I figured hmmmm I could have just one and it wouldn't hurt but Ann looked at me and told me that everytime I drink a diet soda I raise my chances of a stroke by 48%!!! Almost half! I was astounded so I looked online and found the study that showed this so now I really need to stay off of it! I found this in the Los Angeles Times:

"Here’s the outline of the study, which was started in 2003, and what it found:

A total of 2,564 people in the study were asked about their intake of sodas (among other questions) at the start of the study. After nine years, 559 cardiovascular events had occurred, and those who had reported drinking diet soda every day had a 60% higher rate of these events, which included various forms of stroke as well as heart attacks.

The scientists adjusted for certain factors, such as age, sex, race, smoking, exercise, alcohol and daily calories. When they added additional factors to do with heart disease risk, such as metabolic syndrome, the risk was still 48% higher for the daily-diet-soda-drinking group. (Metabolic syndrome is a group of factors that can include extra weight around the waist and the inability to efficiently process blood sugar.)
“If our results are confirmed with future studies, then it would suggest that diet soda may not be the optimal substitute for sugar-sweetened beverages for protection against vascular outcomes,” noted the study lead author, Hannah Gardener of the University of Miami School of Medicine, in a release from the stroke association. "

And finally, I am hoping to return to my very favorite place on the earth where monkeys sit in trees as waves crash on the shore! I am hopefully going to be going to the beach where I am my happiest this summer so I guess we will see. I love the anticipation of going on a vacation but unfortunately I won't be having a diet Coke when there.

Have a great weekend!

Heidi

Interesting tips from the trainer-Mix up your workout for better benefits!

2011-05-24T20:09:00.000-07:00

This morning when I went to do my daily 5 mile run I ran into the trainer at the club where I work out at. She is amazing, very knowledgeable and always willing to help with little tips to optimize my workouts and eating habits. She asked me how much cardio I was doing and I told her roughly running 10 miles a day. She explained to me that I really don't need to do 10 miles of running a day that as a matter of fact I could burn more by mixing my workout up. I was fascinated because I believed that running this much was the best cardio to burn the fat. The trainer explained to me that our bodies are extremely efficient machines and if we are doing the same routine all the time our body recognizes it and uses less energy to do the workouts than in the beginning. I am so glad she told me this or I would still be running 10 miles a day thinking I should really be losing more weight. She suggested that I run on the treadmill on a higher incline for a minute or run faster for a minute and then go back to my normal pace. This would push my body harder, vary my routine and I would burn more. She also suggested that I run at a comfortable pace and focus more on time than miles. I need to throw in the bike, classes and the elliptical too. By mixing my routine up we can all burn more and hopefully achieve the results we want quicker.

Personally, when all else fails I put on my Adidas, hop on the treadmill and run and run and run until all the frustration,sadness or what I feel is on it's way out and that euphoric exhausted feeling takes over. When I am having a bad day of it I run so hard until I could collapse and I tell you what it is the best feeling.

Anyway, off to bed... hope this helps you in your workout-sure did me!

Missing Cat-My Broken Heart-Horatio Hornblower Cudnik Please Come Home!

2011-05-24T12:27:00.000-07:00

Horatio where are you?
My Horatio has been missing 5 days now and I am beyond sad and worried. I am not being pessimistic but the chances of him returning I know in my heart are very slim. In the 12 years that I have had him he has never not come when I called him or wandered off so I just know that something has happened where he cannot return because I know that he would if he could. I will always hold out hope and do what I can to find him but these last few days have been painful and devastating not knowing where he went. Horatio is my 3 legged cat who purred if you just looked at him and cheered me everyday. I ran the entire neighborhood today and called for him but to no avail:(((

Maybe to some people it seems I am being dramatic over my loss and they might say, “oh he is just a cat” but “just a cat” to me is a creature warmer than the sun, a companion truer than most anyone and a joy that cannot be compared. I hope Horatio comes home but I imagine I need to appreciate that I was ever blessed to have him in my life for 12 years and that any sadness I feel now at his loss is nothing compared to all the love and joy that he gave me.

It often happens that a man is more humanely related to a cat or dog than to any human being. ~Henry David Thoreau

Bikini Body Booty Busting! Oh No Here We Go Again-What Is Your Plan??

2011-05-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

Kick it! It's Swimsuit season again!

I have been running and running lately to get ready for the bikini/swimsuit fiasco season that I will have to endure shortly. I decided that this year I am going to be in the best shape of my life so I have really started taking steps to make that happen even more so than I ever have. In my fantasy life I can sit on the couch and eat chocolate, Cheetos and have diet cokes and chocolate martinis and be perfectly toned and thin. Unfortunately this is reality so my booty is hitting the gym hard and eating all the things to get me healthy and trim. I started a 24 day challenge today at the fitness center and it is tough! I am going to have to be very disciplined and stick to this diet and keep up my exercising. I will give more details as I go on but what I am doing now is running 5-6 miles every morning before taking the kids to school and going to work, then in the evenings I run another 5-6 miles. I try to do at least 4 days of running 10 miles per day (and my circuit weights) and then I rest one day, and the other two days I do about 6-7 miles as well as yoga on Monday and Wednesday of every week.

As far as my eating habits go I can assure you that sadly enough Cheetos and chocolate, diet Coke and Martinis are a no, no, no! Instead I am sticking to lots of fruits (lots of berries) and vegetables, oatmeal, healthy fats such as avocados, olives, nuts and clean complex carbs such as rice and hummus. I am a vegetarian so this is a little tough on getting everything in but my trainer said if I eat eggs (which I despise bc of the childhood vomit/boat issue but that’s another story)-but will do) I should be able to meet my goal soon. I can tell since I have been doing the 40-55 miles of running per week that my legs are getting very toned and stronger so that is a plus! Now if my booty and belly will just do what I want them to as well I will finally be content.

I will give more information as I am going on this 24 days challenge. I am committed to sticking to it but may be CRANKY without my diet Coke and chocolate. It doesn’t help that people are so nice (you know who you are) that they keep giving me chocolate to make the day go by. Wish me luck and I will let you know the hurdles as well as what can make something like this easier for you.

Heidi

P.S. My cat Horatio has been missing for 3 days now and I have walked the neighborhood everyday crying and calling for him. He is a little 3 legged cat I rescued about 12 years ago and I am just a sad mess without him. He has been my companion and a source of great joy in my life and now he is gone:( He doesn’t generally go outside or wander off and comes when called so if you think of it please send positive thoughts that my Horatio will return home. I have put up flyers and called shelters. I appreciate any good energy my way. I miss my little Horatio Hornblower:(

“The smallest feline is a masterpiece” Leonardo da Vinci

Wingy Wednesday!!Fluffy Flies! Rescued Baby Crow Is Going To Be Fine! Our 3rd Rescued Bird This Spring! Whew

2011-05-18T10:19:00.000-07:00

Here he is..................... Fluffy..........

What a night!!! For those of you who know me or read my blog you know how much I love animals-all animals-wild or domestic! For some reason I seem to find all kinds or maybe they find me-who knows! The kids and I have found injured birds, squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, foxes, turtles, geese, mice-you name it and we are so lucky that we have a great place here called Operation Wildlife that is supported by volunteers and rehabilitates, and nurses wild animals back to health and then releases them back into their natural habitat!

So, about a month ago I was dropping the kids off at school and on my way to work when I noticed a female cardinal in the middle of the road in distress and unable to move. I realized something was very wrong with her because cars and trucks were zipping by her and she could not move. I quickly pulled over and ran into the street (I did look both ways first) to see if I could get her. I was able to pick her up without much fuss and flagged down a man in his bathrobe getting his morning paper to give me a box to put her in. I brought her into work until I could go on my lunch and take her to Operation Wildlife. One of my friends and co-workers Rochelle-who is also an animal lover was here and saw that the bird would be okay and what to do.

Now to last night……. (I can never make a story short-has to be long-lol). I was at the gym and had just finished running when Rochelle called me and was at her daughter Chloe's soccer game and there was a fluffy black bird being poked and prodded by a number of kids with sticks and not moving. Rochelle remembered that I had taken the other bird and wanted to know what we could do. I told her to see if there were any other birds around as this could be the baby who was learning to fly and on the ground at this point . The parents would be around and come down every little bit to feed the baby and if that was the case to get the kids away but not take the bird bc this is a natural process. Well there were no parents and the bird was obviously feeling traumatized at this point. I offered to come and get the bird and keep it overnight until Operation Wildlife was open in the morning. Rochelle and Chloe found a box and towel and got the bird into the box and we met so Ava, Izzy and I could take him home and keep him in a warm, safe and quiet environment. I don’t think I hardly slept a wink all night and kept checking on the bird for fear of his demise. Finally morning came and he is at Operation Wildlife safe and sound!!!

And on another positive note we now have 3 junior animal rescuers to thank-Chloe, Ava and Izzy! All 3 want to do this when they grow up.....showing them compassion and kindness towards wildlife taught them of the power that they have to change the life of a helpless animal and it will carry on through them!! Thanks Chloe, Ava and Izzy -future bird rescuers!

Ava-Animal rescuer!

Chloe Animal rescuer!

Izzy Animal rescuer!

What a sweet little guy or gal this baby was! So fluffy so aptly named Fluffy with big beautiful blue eyes and a gorgeous beak! Crows are extremely social family oriented birds and will often even take in the young of orphaned other birds of different species. They are also extremely smart and mate for life. It is very rare to ever see a crow alone as they travel in pairs generally. I hope for Fluffy a happy life and know that leaving him at the ballpark would have probably resulted in his demise. Above is a picture I took of him this morning before we handed him over to Operation Wildlife (who said he looked in good shape).

If you get a chance-throw out some bird seed and feed the birds, squirrels, chipmunks-you will enjoy watching them come eat and if you have the opportunity to help an animal (be smart and cautious of course) do-it warms your heart to know that you have contributed to saving an innocent helpless animal that probably would not have made it without you. We are all connected in the web of life!

Tuesday observations and how to lose inches off your waist in 2 weeks trick! Blueberries Baby!

2011-05-17T10:54:00.000-07:00

Tuesday observations and How to lose inches off your waist in 2 weeks trick!

Okay so not much of this has to do with health but I am working on an article about how to get your belly fat to melt away but today I thought while I had a moment I would throw out a few things…….

-Why is it that regardless how much we try to forget- some people will always be in our thoughts and a certain song, word or smell can bring them back with such a force as if they were standing right in front of you again. I mean I can’t remember where I put my sunglasses 5 minutes ago but can remember in such detail someone or something from a year ago (and on that note how do we get them to go into the dusty archives of our heart and mind )? The heart and mind are strange partners I swear!

-When your best friend goes with you as a guest to the gym and she is drinking wine and offers you some before you have to run 5 miles really fast on the treadmill you should NEVER accept it. Trust me… you may think it’s funny later but at the time when you are lying on the floor next to the treadmill it can be very embarrassing to one’s workout. (Thanks Liz)LOL

-Want to melt belly fat fast? Eat one cup of blueberries every day for two weeks and your waist could be inches smaller. The pigments responsible for the berries’ color also reduce fat storing and activate genes that regulate belly-fat burn!

And finally…………..

-Do something nice for someone (animals included) every day! It will sure make you feel better….oh and a steam bath in the sauna is always relaxing too.

Be back soon with my belly fat bikini burning tips.

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.. Allergies why do you hurt me so? Easy Solutions For Allergies!

2011-05-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH…… Allergies why do you hurt me so? I wake up puffy and snuffy and not at all ready to get up and go!! What can I do to make you mean allergies get up and go?? Oh how I don’t like these verminice allergies and if you are at all like me I bet you have been having some problems too! I found these great ideas in my “Women’s World” magazine that are easy and natural ways to help beat the allergies that plague you. Here it goes…..

-Soothe Sinuses With Stinging Nettle- You can get this herbal supplement at most health food stores and it is well worth it! Nettle reduces production of vile histamine up to 50% FASTER THAN CLARITIN AND ALLEGRA! Wow! Aim for 1,200 mg daily.

-Water, Water, Water… Drink It Up BabyCakes- Believe it or not, staying well hydrated helps 38% of women (sorry men) relieve allergy symptoms and we all know that water is great in general for helping keep that tummy from bloating and about everything else too!!!

-Achooooooo-Stop Sneezing With Green Tea (My Fav)-We already know that green tea is great for wellbeing and a flat tummy as well as possibly helping reduce blood sugar to reduce cravings for refined sugar and carbs but now….Sneezing!!! Green tea is packed with an antioxidant (EGCG) that blocks production of two key allergy-symptom triggers: histamine and immunoglobulin (the allergy goblin?-just kidding on an allergy goblin although it feels like a mean allergy goblin visits at night) Ideally drink 2 to 3 cups daily. I love to add lemon to my green tea and sometimes make a nice iced green tea with lemons and Stevia (natural sweetener).

-Perilla Will Killa The Inflammation-In as little as seven days the herb Perilla has been study-proven to shut down allergic reaction and symptoms!!!! Perilla dampens inflammation and destroys the rogue immune cells that trigger allergy attacks! Perilla can be found at your health food store in an oil capsule (Womens World says to look under brand names like Source Naturals and Life Extension and follow package directions for dosage).

Yoga ( Not Partying In A Toga) Will Help You Breathe Easier-One of my favorite bloggers Michele at http://manddraponisanimalrescue.typepad.com/serenity/2011/05/i-love-my-new-job.html is a big fan of yoga and an instructor of yoga so I’m sure she will love that yoga breathing techniques help ease stuffed-up nasal passages and reduce stress, which is proven to heighten your body’s allergic response. Now if I could only bend like her maybe I could do the yoga.

Okay, so I am heading to Whole Foods tonight to get more green tea, Nettle and Perilla and hopefully send these allergies packing!! Hope this helps!!

Heidi

Momma Mia! Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

It’s not always easy being a mom-like when you realize the kids have been quiet far too long and you discover pizza in the fish tank or shaving cream all over the desk and chairs… “art” the kids called it. And then there are the times when they don’t feel well and vomit all over the buggy, produce guy and produce department in Target and then the other one starts gagging and vomiting because she is grossed out at the first ones vomit and both are crying and screaming and you are standing there covered in vomit trying to console everyone. Oh and the guilt that you are never doing exactly as the books say a good mom should do and the fear you are somehow traumatizing them and dooming them forever because you don’t do just as they want and give them every single thing they ask for when they ask for it.

But…… the love, love, love when you come home after a long day and they run to you and say “yeahhhh Mommy’s home” or when you see them accomplish something with pride in their eyes or when they give you that sweet little kiss goodnight and they tell you that they love you. Somehow these moments make the vomit, pizza, shaving cream debacles fade into meaningless things. It’s never perfect but it is as close as perfect can be for me.

I just wanted to say Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, grandma’s, dad’s who are both moms and dads and to all the mom’s whose babies are their cats, dogs or other animals!!!

Happy Mother’s Day!!

I saw this quote the other day and thought it was funny………

“If being a mother were easy then father’s would do it”. Golden Girls

All in good fun. Lol

My girls!!! My loves!

No more Misery on Monday, Tyrants on Tuesday, Witches on Wednesday, Tempers on Thursday or Feisty Fighting on Friday-Olive Oil & Prunes To Lift The Blues!

2011-05-03T11:23:00.000-07:00

No more Misery on Monday, Tyrants on Tuesday, Witches on Wednesday, Tempers on Thursday or Feisty Fighting on Friday-Olive Oil & Prunes To Lift The Blues!

We all have those days when we feel a little anxiety or a little blue and I am a big believer in diet and exercise to help ward off these feelings! So, when I recently read about olive oil helping with the blues and dates (the fruit not the activity-lol) helping to relieve anxiety I knew I had to share this information!

Olive oil- I am a big fan of olive oil as it is (it is a great for your skin, heart and helps to keep the bad fats from being absorbed ) but now in a study of more than 12,0000 people , those who consumed at least 3 ½ tsp of olive oil daily were 30% less likely to suffer depression than those who ate none. Apparently the same mechanism in monounsaturated fats that reduces inflammation in arteries also reduces brain inflammation. This is important because brain inflammation triggers the release of cytokines, proteins that suppress your levels of fee-good neurotrans-mitters. So to make a long story short have some olive oil everyday and you may kick some of those blues away! I personally use olive oil in most things that I cook and even take a teaspoon before eating high carb foods to help block the bad fats. Go olive oil!

Date away anxiety-Ok, ok not the actual activity of dating but the delicious fruit dates! I love the natural sweetness of dates and now beyond them having one of the highest antioxidant contents of any dried fruit--- dates ease stress and unkink tense muscles. Dates contain an almost perfect one-to-one ratio of calcium and magnesium which work in harmony to calm the nervous system. A single handful of dates has more potassium (which regulates heartbeat and breathing rate) than an entire banana!!

Sooooooooooo…. Now you know two great and natural ways to help when you are singing the blues!! I have started eating more dates so hopefully I’m on the right track too!

Ref:Woman’s World 2011

Wordless Wednesday- My Favorite Place In The World!

2011-04-27T09:08:00.000-07:00

Can you guess where this is?

“Some people come into our lives and quickly go. Others stay for awhile and we are never, ever the same.” Carole King (I think)

I think I know Why Forrest Gump Loved To Run-No, Really I Got It!

2011-04-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

Run, Run, Run.......
Let’s not kid ourselves here-the reason my blog has the word wannabe in it is because I want to be a health nut-well sort of. I want to be healthy, eat all the right things, be toned, exercise and enjoy doing all these things. Now for the reality- I love Cheetos, chocolate, pizza, and diet Coke with a passion! I despise exercise most of the time and cooking healthy things well nope not really. Sure I make an effort to do the right things to be healthy but still seem to fall into the bag of Cheetos and box of my beloved chocolates. So writing this blog is my way of putting my best foot forward to be the health nut that I wannabe.

Now saying all these things I will tell you that I have fallen in love!!! Yes euphorically, breathtakingly in love with……… RUNNING! OMIGOODNESS! Me-Heidi loves to run-to actually get up early with those “crazy” people who love to run and run fast! To make a point almost everyday to run several miles!! I don’t know and am not going to question why or how but I really love it! I love feeling the sweat from a hard workout, the pride in that I got off my booty and did something positive, the euphoria after I have finished a long and difficult run. The reason this is all so amazing is because as I said above, I despise exercise! Have despised it my entire life. I did it because I felt that I had to but I NEVER, EVER enjoyed it!!! Please! I used to look at those avid runners like what the he _ _!!! Why would ANYONE ever subject themselves to that willingly? To me exercise has always been a form of torture forced upon one to keep their clothes from getting too tight. Now I run when I’m sad and I feel better, I run when I’m happy, I run when I’m stressed and the stress seems to melt away!! I run miles and miles and miles and on my days when I feel down I run really fast. Sometimes I have to laugh because the thought of me being an avid runner is pretty hysterical!

I am writing this to tell you that it can be done! Miracles can happen and to you out there like me who thought or think exercise is pure absolute insanity I tell you to think again. Find your niche whether it be walking, running, yoga, weights, gardening, whatever it is-find it! Running has saved me from so many bad habits, bad clothes and stressful times. I run it off! Physically and mentally you will feel like a new person!! FIND IT! You will be glad you did!!! And as for the healthy eating-I’m working on it but one thing at a time. LOL!

Have a great day:)

Heidi

Memories on Music Monday-Colbie Caillait

2011-04-18T19:27:00.000-07:00

Most of us have songs that instantly remind us of someone or something.. Here is one of mine....

Have a great day!

Fallin' For You.....

Colbie Caillait

It Doesn’t Have To Be Bad For It To Be Good For You!! Chocolate, Caffeine, and Sleeping In!

2011-04-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

It Doesn’t Have To Be Bad For It To Be Good For You!! Chocolate, Caffeine, and Sleeping In!

For most of my life I believed that if something was good for you then it had to taste awful, leave me feeling hungry, and send me to some horrific exercise regime that left me in the back of the class breathing hard and near dead. I can recall years and years of running (and hating every second), eating funky icky foods, trying every new diet, and even not eating all in a bid for that perfect body (there is no such thing). As I got older and did some research I learned that you can like something and it can still be good for you! Keep in mind that moderation is always the key I believe. Sure you can reach for a mini Snickers bar if you want just don’t reach for ten of them and justify it to yourself that well although you had ten they WERE minis (this is what I do and I do know better but the lure of the Snickers is powerful for me).

Here You Go….

-Sleep , sleep, sleep- People who sleep seven to eight hours nightly are twice as likely to reach a ripe old age as those who get less shuteye, according to a study out of the U.K.’s University of Warwick and University College London. When you don’t get enough sleep your body’s production of the appetite suppressing hormone leptin is disrupted- raising your risk of life-shortening obesity. It also triggers blood sugar imbalances that can lead to type Two diabetes. (re-Woman’s World).

-Chocolate-mmmmmmmm-Nibble on dark chocolate (really? Yesssss really!)- Dark chocolate has flavonoids, which destroy the free radicals that cause inflammation. Just two squares of a dark chocolate bar, two Hershey’s Kisses or a dozen semisweet chocolate chips cuts inflammation by 17%. This is great news because chocolate is DELICIOUS and you can help beat chronic inflammation which is behind many illnesses-including heart diseases, Alhzheimer’s and diabetes!!!! Chocolate lovers have also been known to have lower levels of stress hormones in their bloodstream. Say hello to chocolate (remember, in moderation-hard for me but a must).

Caffeine- "Caffeine is starting to get attention because it may prevent skin cancer as discussed in the February issue of the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Consumption of caffeine has been shown to be associated with lower incidences of nonmelanoma skin cancers in several epidemiological studies (Jacobsen et al., 1986; Hakim et al., 2000; Abel et al., 2007; Rees et al., 2007). However, too much caffeine can actually pack on the pounds so keeping it to 16 oz of diet soda with caffeine or 1 or 2 cups of coffee is probably best. One study of over 93,000 women showed that drinking coffee decreased their risk of skin cancer. Other research suggests that both oral and topical caffeine may offer powerful anticarcinogenic benefits."

And………….

According to Supermodel Elle McPherson’s trainer James Duigan author of, “The Clean and Lean Diet” exercise is really not about killing yourself everyday for hours (thank heavens) Instead - “Duigan's motto is work smarter, not harder.Understanding that many people have busy lives, he has devised an eight-minute workout of resistance exercises to be done twice a day. This can be extended with a walk or by attempting the more advanced workouts in the book.

“You should never really be working out for longer than an hour. Any longer than that and you haven't been working smart enough in that hour and you're really just putting your body under unnecessary stress,” he said.

“I'd say if you can do a good metabolic resistance circuit for about 10 minutes in the morning, which is an achievable amount of time, and then 10 minutes in the afternoon or evening, then you'll see good results with your physique.”

And as I have said above, it is really about moderation and balancing so that you can enjoy the things you love and be healthy. I say this as I am eyeing the bowl of fun size Snickers across from me. If only will power came a little easier to me.

Wordless Wednesday- Casanova Our Gato Sin Pelo-Hairless Cat-Sphynx

2011-03-30T10:27:00.001-07:00

Make My Day & Tell Me Chocolate Is Okay! No Time To Nap-Have Some Dark Chocolate!

2011-03-28T18:42:00.000-07:00

I Love chocolate anywhere, anytime and have secret chocolate stashes at home and at work but I always feel so GUILTY eating it!!! Well NO MORE! I just heard that when you don't have time for a nap then reach for some dark chocolate! Yes, it's true-suddenly my world is getting so much better!!! We know that getting enough sleep is vital to better health and even weight loss- studies show it decreases your odds of heart disease and high blood pressure. However, if you don't have time to nap forget coffee (which saps your body of iron, making fatigue worse) and reach for dark chocolate! Apparently reasearchers (no, I did not pay these researchers-lol) found that a few bites a day (yes!!! EVERYDAY-woohoooo) can combat exhaustion and counteract the effects of sleep deprivation.!!!

Dark chocolate is rich in phenylethylamine, which acts like an amphetamine so you feel more energized. It is full of flavonoids that help lower blood pressure and has plant sterols that lower bad LDL cholesterol up to 10 points!!!!! Now I suppose I should say that you should use good judgement and not go overboard with the chocolate but at least now we know that it's not all so bad !! Now I am going to go and en

Reference-Womans World-March

Yes I am still alive

2011-03-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

I am still here and everyday keep saying yes I will write an article today but............ Ok I am saying it again and mean it soon! Just busy with kids, work, friends and animals at the moment. Trying out all kinds of health things so I can bring them to you all soon!!!!

:) Heidi

Wow! Quick Fixes For Shaving, Whiter Teeth & Hiccups! Ice, Strawberries & a little Pressure!

2011-01-18T13:14:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing that I really love it is a quick and simple fix for a troublesome problem! Who doesn't hate those darn nicks from shaving, hiccups in the middle of a quiet room or yellow teeth??? Now here are some easy solutions to nip those annoying things in the bud!!!!

10 Seconds and you can kiss those nasty nicks from shaving Au Revoir- Simple solution- Grab a piece of ice and rub the cut area until the bleeding stops. The ice's cold temperature will cause capillaries to constrict, blocking blood flow to the scrape in just 10 seconds!

Press away those hiccups today!-Simple solution-No more sitting in a nice quiet room when suddenly you are hit with thos nervy hiccups!!! Silence them in seconds by pressing your index fingers into the soft areas behind both earlobes just beneath the base of your skull. This alerts your vagus nerve to send a calming signal to your contracting diaphragm. Hasta la vista hiccups!

Whiter teeth are only a strawberry away-Simple solution- Wow, wow white! Mash 1 ripe strawberry to a pulp and mix with 1/2 tsp baking powder. Using a soft toothbrush, spread the mixture on your teeth, let sit 5 minutes then brush. Strawberries have malic acid that act as an astringent to dissolve surface stains on teeth, while the baking soda breaks into tiny particles to reach and remove deeper stains. Try this once a week for brighter and whiter teeth!!

I have tried these and love them:)

Ref: Women First

Chocolate, Cheetos and diet Pepsi-Need to get back on track:(

2011-01-12T17:22:00.000-08:00

Okay well I've been off my healthy eating and working out for a couple months now (okay maybe 3 or 4 months if I'm being honest) and seem to have developed a love for chocolate, Cheetos and diet Pepsi. I know, I know, I know! So I am getting back on track with my healthy eating, exercising and blogging. I have lots of great articles to post and can't wait to catch up with all of you.

I hope everyone had a great New Year and here is to a happy and healthy 2011!!

:) Heidi

Yuck! Gross! Spit! The shocking image of mass-produced MEAT that goes in to America's favourite treats

2010-10-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

Yuck!!! I saw this article in the Daily Mail today and had to share it with all of you. Interesting read and I am sorry if this grosses you out as it did me but it is good to know.

"Oozing out of a meat processor, this mechanically separated chicken doesn’t look in the least bit appetizing.

It may taste something like meat - but it certainly doesn’t look like it here.

Yet meat like that in this image - which first emerged on the blog Fooducate - will end up as the main ingredient in many of America’s favourite foods and snacks.

Hot dogs, salami, bologna, pepperoni, jerkys and chicken nuggets are just a few of the mass-produced and processed treats made using Advanced Meat Recovery

Is it strawberry ice cream? No - this is 'mechanically separated chicken' - one of the main ingredients in many American snacks. The undated picture charts the common process many American treats go through

It’s a way of scraping the very last scraps to leave chicken or pig bones 100 per cent clean of meat by smashing them up and pressing them through a high pressure sieve.

And it’s not just the bones. The eyes, and guts are also put through the meat wringer.

Not just white meat: The paste that is formed during the process goes into many treats - like chicken nuggets

The chunks are pressed between rotating cylinders, leaving the meat on one side and the bone and connective tissues on the other.

After the bacteria is killed off and artificial flavours and colouring is added to make it more palatable, some of the world’s biggest food manufacturers use the resulting paste to make some of your household favourites.

In 2004, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service banned beef from being processed this way because of fears it could spread Mad Cow Disease.

But mechanically separated chicken and pork are still safe to eat, says the health watchdogs, who nevertheless require them to be labeled appropriately.

Vegan author Dr Michael Greger told Wired.com that meat processors ‘have showed over the past decade that they’re incapable of following the guidelines set for them and I’m afraid that because we’re not going to have adequate enforcement, it would be better to not have the technology at all.’

But Harold Hodges, vice president of product quality for BFD, America’s leading meat recovery machine retailer, insisted that no food safety issue had ever been linked to AMR.

‘There’s never been a recall due to AMR. It’s a source of high-quality lean meat that is worth several hundreds of millions of dollars,’ he said."

I am just glad I am a vegetarian and try to watch what I eat. However this article goes to show that you never know what may be in any of your food!!!

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1317783/Hungry-You-wont--The-shocking-image-mass-produced-MEAT-goes-Americas-favourite-treats.html##ixzz11UuXNO6i

Say What??? Try Some Salmon and Improve Your Hearing!

2010-09-10T11:31:00.000-07:00

Today at lunch I was sitting with Elvis and Deanna and for the life of me could not grasp the conversation because I could only hear bits and pieces due to being outside, lots of people and possibly not enough Salmon in my diet. LOL. Really, it was quite funny because everything they would say to me I would have to repeat back and ask if that was what they said. It was hysterical because the ridiculous turn the conversation took but frustrating because I could not hear at all and had no idea what we were talking about. That brought to mind the study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that shows that eating two weekly 4- oz servings of salmon or any other fatty fish (including tuna and mackerel) makes you 42% less likely to suffer hearing loss than those who eat fewer than one serving per week. The omega-3 fatty acids improve blood flow to the cochlea-a fluid-filled spiral shaped part of the inner ear that enables you to hear-this helps keep it in tip-top shape. This is a simple and easy way to help your hearing and eat well at the same time.

Being a strict vegetarian I do not eat fish but do try to have flax seed oil, walnuts and flax seeds that I sprinkle on just about everything that help with my omega-3’s. So whether you are a vegetarian or you like your fish you can get your omega-3 fatty acids and hopefully hear better!

Source: Woman’s World

Boost Your Immunity, Memory, LowerHeart Disease Risks In Unusual Ways!!!

2010-08-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

Boost Your Immunity, Memory, Heart Disease Risks In Unusual Ways!!

I just love finding fun, quirky and easy (easy being the key word here) ways to super charge my health!! I found these fun ideas in my Woman’s World magazine (which was one of those weird spontaneous buys-but glad I did) and I have begun giving them a shot with great benefits! Take a look, you may find that these could work for you too!

EASY Ways To Rev Up Your Health!!!

-2 eggs a day will melt your belly fat away-In a study women who ate 2 eggs a day lost twice as much weight and 83% more belly fat than women who ate the same number of calories in the form of bagels.

-Butter, butter I love you!-Adding butter to your diet can cut your levels of artery-clogging triglycerides 51% plus lift your artery-clearing HDL (good cholesterol), a combo that reduces your heart disease risk by 25% or according to a study at The University of Connecticut. A little bit of butter goes a long way so don’t overdo it and watch what you are putting it on but vegetables, and high fiber foods is a good bet. Also keep in mind that butter works as a great appetite suppressant!

-See a sneezer, sniffler? Look at them- Now this is odd but hey if it works then why not! New research shows that simply glancing at someone who is sneezing or sniffling stimulates your own immune system to seek out and destroy germs! Apparently when you have contact with someone who is sick there is a chance that you can catch these germs so our bodies launch an offensive attack to reduce the risk! Our bodies are really clever!!!!! I hope that I don’t take this too much too heart and start staring at all the sick people.

-Espresso your stomach pain away-This sounds much better than any kind of medicine or pills. Darker brews of coffee deliver double the amount of N-methylpyridium-an acid reducing compound-than milder brews.

Want to remember your age try some sage!-Memory with herbs- Taking a single dose of sage extract (at health food stores) INSTANTLY sharpens your memory, helping you recall names, places and other facts 11 times for accurately for at least two hours, according to a new study. It is said that it even helps improve brain function for those with major memory problems and Alzheimer’s disease. Tip-Twice daily, mix 28 drops of sage extract in a glass of water or sip two cups a day of sage tea.

I tried the sage tea and love it. I have also been staring at my friend Donna who is sniffling so I must say I have an improved memory and my body is hopefully launching an offensive attack on Donna’s germs so I stay healthy. LOL.

Aint No Stopping Me Now! 2 Months Later And I Am Back!!!

2010-08-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

I am back and those three words are like heaven to me!!! I have missed blogging and my wonderful readers and blogging friends more than I can say!!! I am going to put it out there and be honest and let you all know that I had a bit of a problem with an unstable person stalking me more or less. I thought maybe if I went away they would go away but apparently not so I am not lying low anymore!!! Don't worry about me as I am tough and I have the police involved but I was tired of letting this person terrorize me to the point of me giving up some of the things I love the most-this blog and all of you who read it!!

I have so many posts that I have written (from coffee grounds to fight cellulite to citrus smells to get your kids to help around the house-lol) and not published just waiting for when I felt safe to come back. I cannot wait to start reading all your posts and commenting and posting here!!!!

Thanks to all who have supported me (Regina, Marie, Mike, Dori, and Shae Shae and all the others!) while I was on this hiatus!!

:))))

Fight The Fat And Get That Tummy Flat! Avoid These Foods For a Slim Line Stomach!

2010-06-14T09:03:00.000-07:00

Tummybusters-Foods To Avoid If You Want A Flat Stomach

It is summertime and we all know what that means!!! Time to head out to the pool and put on that swimsuit!!! In light of that I decided to do a tummy post so we can all feel a little better when in the dreaded swimsuit.

Below is a list of foods that are known flat tummy busters and when I read this I realized that as hard as I try I am still making some big food mistakes. I am guilty for sure of the chewing gum, salt, tea and raw foods. Check this out and see if perhaps some of these foods are in your diet and sabotaging your best efforts for that flat tummy.

Tummybusters!

Bulky Raw foods- Lightly cooked vegetables offer much the same nutritional benefits as the raw version, however cooked vegetables take up much less room in gastrointestinal (GI) tract as the raw vegetables.

Gassy Foods-Avoid beans, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, onions, peppers and citrus fruits as these will bloat up your stomach.

Fizzy Drinks-Okay, I love fizzy drinks-love them but think of where all the bubbles go? That’s right straight into your belly.

Fried Foods-Fatty foods, especially the fried ones, are digested more slowly, causing you to feel heavy and bloated.

Chewing Gum- As you chew gum, you swallow air which gets trapped in your GI tract and causes pressure, bloating and belly expansion.
Salt-Water is attracted to sodium, which is why when you eat foods with a lot of sodium (salty foods), you’ll temporarily retain more fluid which gives you a puffy appearance and a sluggish feeling.

Sugar Alcohols-These are sugar substitutes (called xylitol or malitol) that are generally found in products such as low-calorie or low carb cookies, sweets and energy bars. Like fiber, your GI tract can’t absorb most of them. They can cause abdominal distention and bloating.

Spicy Foods-Foods that have black pepper, nutmeg, cloves, chili powder, hot sauces, onions, garlic, mustard, hot peppers, barbecue sauce, horseradish, ketchup (I despise ketchup), tomato sauce or vinegar can all stimulate the release of stomach acid which can cause gut irritation and bloating.

Excess Carbs-As a back-up energy source, your muscles store a type of carbohydrate called glycogen. Every gram of glycogen is stored with about 3g of water. Your body doesn’t need all the stockpiled fuel unless you plan to hike Mount Everest tomorrow. Decrease your intake of high-carb foods such as pasta, bananas, and bread to temporarily train your body to access this stored fuel and burn it off.

Alcohol, Coffee, Cocoa, Tea, And Acidic Fruit Juices-Each of these can irritate your GI tract and cause swelling.

ref-http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-110238

Enough Vitamin D and You will Be Feeling Happy!!

2010-06-01T14:06:00.000-07:00

The benefits of vitamin D (often known as the sunshine vitamin) keep surprising researchers as the list of benefits from it keep showing themselves. Just take a look below at all the benfits your body can reap from a little of the sunshine vitamin.

10 Great Reasons To Get Your Vitamin D
1. Brain- Cuts stroke risk-may help prevent depression
2. Eyes-Lowers risk of macular degeneration
3. Mouth-Decreases risk of gum disease
4. Heart-Lowers chances of cardiovascular disease
5. Lungs-May reduce lung cancer risk
6. Breast-Cuts chances or breast cancer
7. Back-Lessens likelihood of chronic pain
8. Legs-Fights age-related weakness
9. Calves-Lowers risk of blocked leg arteries
10. Bones-Strengthens

Vitamin D Rich Foods
Wild salmon 3 oz = 420 IU
Atlantic mackerel 3 oz = 320 IU
Sardines 1 can = 250 IU
Shrimp 3 oz = 150 IU
Skim and 1% low-fat milk 1 cup = 100 IUS
Shittake mushrooms 4 items = 260 IU
Fortified yogurts like Dannon Light & Fit 1 cup = 80 IU
Fortified cereals:Multigrain Cheerios 1 cup = 40 IU; Post Bran Flakes 1 cup = 40 IU; Kashi Vive 1¼ cup = 80

Now with all these benefits I can understand why my cats love to find a place in the nice warm sun and curl up. Keep in mind that current U.S. guidelines recommend for 200-600 IU of D per day (depending on age) but many experts recommend at least 1,000 IU of D per day. So, by eating vitamin D rich foods, taking a vitamin D supplement or whole food multi (that is what I do-see pops in the upper left hand corner) and getting 15 minutes of sun on your hands a few times a week you will be all set!

Source-December 2008 Good Housekeeping

Send Fat To Bat And Rev Up Your Metabolism With These Tips!!!

2010-05-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

Metabolism, metabolism, metabolism. That one word has always been a mystery to me. Apparently I have a good metabolism (at least that is what my mother has always told me and I am not one to argue with her) and to tell you the truth I was never to sure what having a good metabolism entailed just was glad that I did (based upon serious looks my mother made when talking of metabolism ). One of my friends who is forever on a diet will tell you that she has a terrible metabolism and can never lose weight because of her metabolism (of course she always mentions this while eating several cookies at once). I decided to delve into the metabolism mystery and find some tips to help you speed up your metabolism whether you think you have a good one or a bad one.

When you have a high metabolic rate this increases the amount of calories, or energy, the body burns on a daily basis. Without optimal metabolism the body will store excess calories as fat for future use. The problem for many people is they don’t ever use these excess calories and as a result struggle with weight issues ( not fun).

Vavavoom Your Metabolism

**Eat Spicy Foods- Have you ever noticed that when you swallow that really hot jalapeno that you start to sweat and feel a little hot (I have on many occasions)? Great news! You are speeding up your metabolism. Add some red pepper, or jalapenos to your favorite dish to get going. Mexican and Thai are great choices for this.

**Eat Breakfast-Believe it or not, it may be the most important meal of the day as far as metabolism (and weight loss) is concerned. People who eat breakfast lose more weight than breakfast skippers do, according to studies. Breakfast gives your metabolism a boost and provides a consistent energy supply throughout the day. Christopher, a New York City fitness expert and my online personal trainer is constantly stressing this to me!
-
**Eat Lots Of Small Meals Throughout The Day-If you can eat 5-6 small meals (try not to go for more than 4 hours without eating) this will keep your metabolism running great. I have also found this to be helpful so that I do not overeat. I never really feel hungry.

**Drink Green Tea-Studies have found that green tea extract actually increases metabolism. The antioxidants in tea appear to improve concentration, gently boost energy, make people happier, lower cholesterol levels, improve cardiovascular health and help guard against some cancers too. Sounds like a win win idea to me.
-
**Avoid Stress-Too much physical or emotional stress causes our bodies to release a steroid called cortisol that actually slows down our metabolism and can cause weight gain, especially around your stomach area.
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**Eat Protein-You should make sure that 10 to 35 percent of your total daily calories come from protein. The amino acids in protein make it harder for your body to break down than carbs and fats so you burn more calories. This does not mean you have to eat a lot of meat (if you do eat meat I think the organic grass fed is best). I am a vegetarian and eat a lot of eggs (thank you Christopher),nuts, cheeses and other low fat dairy to get in my protein.

**Get Plenty Of Sleep-Studies show that people who don’t get seven to eight hours a night of sleep are more prone to weight gain. I have heard that the first 4 hours of sleep help with brain repair and the last 4 hours help with body repair (this is just a rumor but comes from a reliable source).
-
**Stay Away From Sugar- Honestly, this has to be my least favorite as I love, love, love sweets! Unfortunately, sugar throws our metabolic rate into fat storage mode (that just sounds awful).

Isn't this terrific! These are really not tough tips to include in our daily lives (although I do struggle with the sugar one) so that we can burn calories more efficiently and speed up the ever mysterious metabolism (what does a metabolism look like? anything?).

Veggie Juice For A Weight Loss Boost!

2010-05-04T08:15:00.001-07:00

Veggie Juice For A Weight Loss Boost!

Okay, this is one that I can actually do without too much trouble!!! In a recent study the Baylor College of Medicine scientists studied 81 overweight adults who were following the DASH diet (rich in foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats). They found that the participants that had a daily eight-ounce glass of low sodium veggie juice lost an average of four pounds in 12 weeks-while the control group lost only one pound. The juice, usually tomato mixed with a variety of vegetables, may fill you up so you don’t eat as much.

Now keep in mind this seemed to work on a healthy diet not how I would like to do it which would be with chocolate bars, cheetos, and nachos. If only. LOL. It sounds simple and very good for you to get some veggies in your diet!!!!

Source Jan 2010 Good Housekeeping

Kindness by Plato

2010-04-27T11:33:00.000-07:00

Just a thought for you all as we never know what someone is going through.........

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. Plato

Have a great day!
Heidi

Drink Cold Water For A Longer Workout And Burn More Calories!!!!

2010-04-20T12:36:00.001-07:00

Drink Cold Water For A Longer Workout!!!
Here is a simple and easy trick to stretch out your workouts (I love simple tricks)! According to a British study, exercisers who drank refrigerated water (39 degrees F) worked out approximately 25% longer than those who consumed the same amount of warmer water. They also said that their sessions felt easier too!

Regardless of you working indoor or out, drinking chilled water both before and during exercise could help keep your body temperature down and your energy up for maximum calorie burn-and who doesn’t love extra calorie burn!!! Anything to make life easier!!

P.S. I am still working with my personal trainer 3 times a week and can really see the results. I am such a baby and despise going and when Andy and I have a session where I have only cussed a couple times and hit him once or twice we both consider it a splendid success. I am just not a natural at all this exercise

Ref: Prevention Magazine May 2009

Something For The Soul!

2010-04-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

What I love about the human spirit is that at those moments when you feel the weakest you really find your strength. The soul constantly amazes me!

Never give up!

Heidi

Coffee And Tea I Love You Cause You Protect Me! And MMMMMMMM You Are Dellicious!

2010-04-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

Coffee and Tea-Have Some With ME!

Great news for all of us who enjoy their daily dose of coffee and tea!!! According to Australian researchers subjecs lowered their risk of type 2 diabetes by 7 percent for every cup of coffee they drank regardless of whether it was decaf or regular (the benefits topped out at six cups per day). And those who sipped three to four cups per day of black tea daily, reduced their diabetes risk by a whopping 25 percent!!!

The reason: plant compounds found in the beverages, such as lignans and chlorogenic acid, optimize insulin production and help keep blood sugar steady.

Source: For Women First April 2010

Wooohooooo!!! Now go and enjoy some black tea or coffee!

Also, I wish all who celebrate Easter to have a great one and to all those who don't I wish you a wonderful weekend as well!!!!

Stomach Shrinker Soak And Have An Omelet To Focus Better!

2010-03-27T16:48:00.000-07:00

I was reading the April 2010 edition of the magazine First for Women and found these two neat and nautral fixes for a couple common problems. Both are easy and extremely doable!

Citrusy Soak A Tummy Shrinker!

Is your stomach feeling a little bloated? Heres a quick and relaxing way to help you out! Soak in a bath containing five drops of orange essential oil. The warm water will open pores while the oil draws out fat-trapping toxins!

An Omelet A Day Will Help Your Focus Stay!

Having a hard time focusing? Then you might want to start your day with a breakfast rich in tyrosine. The amino acid heightens alerness and increases multitasking ability according to researchers the University of Illinois at Chicago. Top sources of tyrosine include eggs, milk, cheese, bananas and almonds. Mmmmmmmmmmm!!!

Love finding stuff like this that is not too difficult! Going to try the citrus soak tonight!!!

Diet And Exercise Progress Report!

2010-03-18T15:22:00.000-07:00

Well I have been meeting with the personal trainer Andy 3 times a week now and he is really kicking my booty which is great because I always try to wriggle out of workouts. Today I told him I must be a masochist to keep coming back!!!! We are doing a lot of weights and abdominal work so far and I must confess I am a baby and it hurts to walk but I can see a difference!!!!

My diet is better too! I have been filling up on lots of water, green tea, fruits, veggies, and high fiber foods such as lentils and black beans. My clothes are finally back to fitting and I can only imagine after 12 weeks with Andy the devil trainer I will be better than ever!!! I will say this to anyone wanting to make a few changes-it is amazing how changing my diet and not eating 8 “fun size” Snickers a day is making. I am finally starting to feel better about myself again!!!

I do miss the Cheetos though-I can’t lie!

I love this poem! Need Some Inspiration? To My Dear Friend Brad!!!

2010-03-09T20:31:00.000-08:00

This is something different for me but I wanted to share a beautiful poem by Veronica Shoffstall . I first read this when I was 15 or 16 and it really made me think. Now after so many life experiences it is invaluable to me. I hope it gives you some comfort as well!!
Love, Heidi

After a While

After a while you learn
The subtle difference between
Holding a hand and chaining a soul
And you learn that love doesn't mean leaning
And company doesn't always mean security.
And you begin to learn
That kisses aren't contracts
And presents aren't promises
And you begin to accept your defeats
With your head up and your eyes ahead
With the grace of a woman
Not the grief of a child
And you learnTo build all your roads on today
Because tomorrow's ground is
Too uncertain for plans
And futures have a way
Of falling down in mid flight
After a while you learn
That even sunshine burns if you get too much
So you plant your own garden
And decorate your own soul
Instead of waiting
For someone to bring you flowers
And you learn
That you really can endure
That you are really strong
And you really do have worth
And you learn and you learn
With every good bye you learn.

Chow To My Beloved Chocolate, Cheese Puffs and Diet Pepsi-Hello Apples and Water-Time To Get Back To Basics!

2010-03-02T17:40:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I feel like I have been so behind at blogging lately and I really miss it and all of you! I have been working quite a bit and being very bad on my healthy eating and work out regimes. Chocolate and diet Pepsi have been frequent visitors to my taste buds and the chair has been my jogging path.

My clothes are getting tight (uh oh) and my booty is getting big (even worse-lol). Bad Health Nut Wannabee Mom!! Okay so what am I going to do about it???? Well I considered throwing myself in a snow drift and crying and crying but that really won't help soooooo I am going back to the basics-what always has and always does work for me. I am going back to lots of water and green tea, plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy grains. I am even meeting with a personal trainer on Thursday to work my bigger than usual booty into shape again. Where I work is very into health and fitness so they have an offer that they will reimburse 70% of the personal trainer cost once you complete your 24 sessions!! That was an offer that I could not refuse and the motivation that I needed. So I guess I have to say chow to my excess chocolate and diet Pepsi and hello water and apples. I can't wait to start feeling mentally and physically better. It is easy to write this while enjoying a bowl of chocolate ice cream . I wonder how much fun I will be having eating that lettuce tomorrow-lol!

I will keep you updated and I will soon be back to commenting on all your great blogs.

Best to you all!!
Heidi

P.S. I forgot to mention the cheese puffs! Now I am really starting to feel scared!

How can I live without the cheese puffs? This is going to be harder than I remember. Those bad habits can be bad to break!

Stress You Are Such A Pain In The........

2010-02-18T19:53:00.000-08:00

Minimize Stress With These Tips

-Give your time to something or someone that you believe in. I do this with animal rescue and it really does work to alleviate the stress from other parts of my life. There is no better feeling than giving and helping others for the sake of being truly kind and caring.

-Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, fats and sugar. Don’t Smoke- No fun I know but.... What you eat and drink really affects your body and by indulging in an unhealthy diet you are really just adding to the stress. I will be the first to admit that when I feel stressed I want diet Pepsi and chocolate so I need to work on this (hard, very hard).

Have an apple instead of a cookie - Another bummer but it works.....this really sounds not very appealing but if it works it is worth a shot.LOL

-Exercise regularly.-Whether you like to walk, do weights, or whatever it may be for you just keep moving . I always feel much better after a great workout at the gym.-Take time for yourself to relax each day.

Meditate, go sit by the water, read your favorite book-Whatever it is for you that relaxes you take even 5-10 minutes a day to do this for yourself. For me there is no place like being near the ocean. It renews me!

-Learn to “let go” of things which are outside of your control. A tough one for me! I obsess over what I cannot control until ,y voice of reason says enough!

Learn to adapt to change-This one is hard for me a lot of the time because I want things to go my way and I keep trying so I need to work on letting it go.

Hopefully you follow at least a few of these and they help with your stress levels. Good luck. Stress is such a pain in the you know where!!

Chocolate Lovers Rejoice!! Just In Time For Valentines Day-Chocolate Pros! MMMM!! Woohoo!

2010-02-12T18:41:00.000-08:00

Just In Time For Valentines Day! Chocolate Lovers Rejoice!!!!

Does it get any better than this really? Harvard researchers recently found that cocoa flavanols (protective substances that are also abundant in dark chocolate) help improve blood flow to the brain, which could slow the mental decline that occurs as you age. Surely this is great news for me as I eat more chocolate than anybody should be allowed in a lifetime! After reading this and of course indulging in some chocolate to help my mental decline I decided to share one of my all time favorite posts that I wrote sometime ago on the benefits (okay a few cons but definitely more benefits) of chocolate. If this does not make your day all you chocolate lovers out there then I don’t know what will.

Chocolate Pros-Wooohhhoooo!!! It is good for you!!!

**If you eat chocolate, only eat dark chocolate-Dark chocolate has many beneficial polyphenolic bioflavanoids that have powerful antioxidant properties, which can actually help to protect you from damaging oxidative stress. (This is good news-definitely cheers me up a bit)

**Chocolate contains the same type of disease-fighting "phenolic" chemicals as red wine and fruits and vegetables, says Andrew Waterhouse of the University of California at Davis.

**Boosts brain chemicals- More Americans crave chocolate than any other food. Some explanations: chocolate's "melt-in-the mouth" consistency and mood-lifting chemicals such as caffeine and theobromine. And when mixed with sugar and fat, chocolate appears to boost "feel-good" chemicals in the brain (endorphins and serotonin), thus promoting euphoria and calm. Some women use chocolate candy to "self-medicate" for premenstrual syndrome, studies have found.

**Doesn't cause acne. Giving up chocolate won't cure acne or pimples, according to a famous test at the University of Pennsylvania. In the test, 65 acne-plagued adolescents ate the amount of chocolate in 1 pound of bittersweet chocolate a day for a month. For another month, they ate a dummy chocolate bar. Their acne was no worse on the real chocolate than on the fake chocolate.

**Helps lactose intolerance .Chocolate makes milk easier to digest if you are lactose-intolerant. Researchers at the University of Rhode Island found that adding 1 1/2 teaspoons of cocoa to 1 cup of milk blocked cramping, bloating and other signs of lactose intolerance in half of 35 subjects. Cocoa stimulates lactase enzyme activity, they found.

**Also, researchers at the Neurosciences Institute in San Diego recently found that chocolate contains anandamide, a chemical that mimics marijuana's soothing effects on the brain (this must be why I run for chocolate when stressed).

**Tests show chocolate contains antibacterial compounds that may discourage, not promote, tooth decay.

**No link to hyperactivity -Some contend that eating chocolate (or sugar) causes hyperactivity, aggression or other behavior problems, notably in children. But several scientific studies have found no evidence of that. In fact, some research finds sweets calm many children.

**Tastes really, really good! Chocolate Cons (I don't like any cons with chocolate but in the name of fairness....)

In Fairness (and sadness) a few Cons......

**Chocolate's greatest crime is that it usually is combined with animal fats, dangerous trans-fats and sugar in high-calorie, bad-fat baked goods.

**Can cause heartburn. Chocolate is a common culprit in heartburn, according to tests by Donald O. Castell, M.D., of the University of Pennsylvania. The reason: Chocolate contains concentrations of theobromine, which relaxes the esophageal sphincter muscle, letting stomach acid squirt up into the esophagus. If you suffer from heartburn, he advises, go easy on chocolate.

**Does contain caffeine. Most people have no negative reaction to small amounts of caffeine. If you're sensitive, you should know how chocolate stacks up with caffeine sources: 5 oz. brewed coffee has 85mg caffeine 5 oz. loose tea or 1 tea bag, 30mg 6 oz. cola, 18mg 1 oz. chocolate candy, 6mg 5 oz. cocoa or hot chocolate, 4mg 6 oz. chocolate milk, 4mg

Fun Fact!!!!!!

The average American eats almost 12 pounds of chocolate a year (double that for me). World chocolate consumption rises 3 percent a year, while cocoa bean production rises just 1.5 percent. To avert an eventual shortage, growers are working to increase production. LOL!

Source USAWeekend.com

Happy Valentines Day!

Almighty Apple! Energy, Weight Loss and Health!!! The Apple Has IT!

2010-02-03T06:47:00.000-08:00

I previously wrote an article on apples and all the benefits they provide to our bodies. Recently while flipping through my winter 2010 Oxygen fatloss magazine I saw an article titled. "Your #1 Fat Loss Secret" and you know I turned to that page immediately and lo and behold it was the almighty apple!

Apple, Apple, You Are The One For Me!

-A recent study published in Appetite found that people who got their calories from three apples a day versus three pears or oat cookies lost about two pounds after 10 weeks.

-A medium apple will fill you up as apples have approximately 80 calories and four grams of fiber. People currently enrolled in a large long-term weight-loss trial known as the calerie study, which is investigating whether calorie restriction can extend life span, have been getting thinner throughout the study. Their slimming strategy is to simply have an apple every day.

-Reduce your cholesterol with an apple-The soluble fiber found in apples can help to reduce your cholesterol!

-Less belly fat-Those who eat apples regularly are 21 percent less likely to have excess belly fat!

-Apple energy-Apples score low on the glycemic index at 39! The glycemic index is a measure of fast insulin is released after eating carbs. A result above 70 is high so at 39 the apple is a great choice!

I love apples but I just found even more reasons to love them!!! Think I will go grab one now!!

ref: Oxygen winter 2010 fat loss issue

I Need Your Advice, Suggestions, Help!! Any Cleanses, Healthy Fasts, Diets That Have Worked For You??

2010-01-10T09:46:00.001-08:00

I have tried many different fasts, cleanses, diets, etc throughout my life but now cannot seem to find one. Part of my problem is that I LOVE to eat so any kind of a fast or cleanse is going to have to have some kind of actual food and not just juices. I have done juicing fasts and they were harder than natural child birth for me (really, really, really). So, I have a question for all of you-What has worked for you? What have you tried that did or did not work? Any recommendations for your friend Health Nut Wannabee Mom here???? See how desperate I look in that pic!

Help! Help! Help!

Heidi

Happy New Year To All Of You!!!

2009-12-31T12:08:00.000-08:00

I wanted to wish everyone of you a HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!! I am taking 2010 and trying to be healthier, happier and make better choices!!!! I hope that all of you have a great start to 2010!!!!!!!

Heidi:)

It's In The Lip Balm Baby! From Repairing a Scratchy Disk To No More Nasty Razor Nicks!

2009-12-23T14:43:00.000-08:00

I love chapstick, lip balm or lipstick as my daughter calls it. I keep a tube in my purse at all times for my lips but never imagined all of the versatile uses that lip balm can help you with!!!! Check these handy tips out that the little tube of chapstick/lip balm can do for you!

It’s In The Lip Balm Baby!

Hate Those Nasty Nicks From That Razor? Me too so lip balm to the rescue! Unfortunately I am always in such a hurry while shaving that I am constantly nicking myself with the razor (and have the scars to prove it). Instead of putting on a band aid that really does not help much, all you need to do is dab some lip balm directly on the gash-it’s smooth waxy base seals the cut while ingredients like menthol and vitamin E sooth cracked skin!!

Pad Those Puppy’s Paws With Lip Balm On Icy Cold Days-Rub some lip balm on those precious paws- the moisturizer acts as an invisible barrier between the delicate paws and the potentially harmful ice and and snow. The camphor in the balm soothes your pooch’s pads and helps to heal any minor abrasions.

Sayonara Smudges-Achoooo! For some reason when I am putting on my mascara I sneeze and am left with those impossible to get off black smudges. Now all I need to do is grab my lip balm and rub a dab under my eyes. The oils in the balm gently cleanse the delicate under-eye area.

So Long Static and Flyaway Hair-My girls think it is hilarious when one of us has hair with static that stands on end but if you don’t, all you have to do is rub some lip balm on your fingertips and then work your fingers through your hair. Nice sleek hair is yours!

Repair a Scratched Disk With-Yes, You Guessed It! Lip Balm! Rub lip balm on the flawed area and buff with a clean soft cloth. The waxy consistency of the balm gently polishes away the scratches so the movie can play without skipping!!!

Now, if you don’t have some lip balm I bet you will run out and get some!!! A great stocking stuffer too~!!

Ref-First For Women 12-09

Bust The Blues With These Nutritious Foods!! No More Excuses To Be Cranky!

2009-12-03T17:35:00.000-08:00

Have you got a touch of the winter blues???? It is getting colder and colder here and the less light and darker evenings seem to be affecting some of us lately so why not giving some of these healthy foods that will help bust the blues! I know I have been kind of a pain lately if not a little winter bluesy myself so I am making a trip to the grocery store and stocking up on these great choices.

Blues Busting Foods! MMMMMMMMMM.....

**Try Some Dessert- Yes! You read that right, try some dessert! Sugar soothes us when we're feeling stressed out ( I know that to be true and will take full advantage). But before you binge on a pan of brownies, cookies and candy, know that a little sugar may soothe you, but too much will wreak havoc with your blood sugar. So, as always moderation is the key here.

**Beans -Like most legumes, beans are rich in iron. If you're low on iron like many active people are--you can be tired and have trouble sleeping, which as we all know can make you cranky, cranky, cranky. Beans are great thrown in salads, over white rice, in a tortilla with salsa, in chili and soups.

**Bananas-Stress and the lack of magnesium are so closely related that it is a good idea for those who lead an active life to add foods rich in magnesium, such as bananas to their diet. Increasing the intake of magnesium reduces anxiety and makes for better sleeping.

**Oranges-Two glasses of fresh orange juice are enough to help say goodbye to some nervousness, bad moods and depression; lack of vitamin C, can make you irritable and cranky.

**Chocolate-Hurrah! Hurrah! Now I know it cannot get any better than this! Some experts believe that like many other foods sweet and rich in carbohydrates, chocolate can have a soothing effect; others, however, consider that the caffeine and other substances contained in chocolate could act as stimulants. I don't care why, I am just so glad to hear it! Ahem, moderation here though, again.

**Spinach and Lentils-Both Lentils and spinach are full of folate, a B vitamin that you need to make the serotonin that makes you feel good. Folate is strong enough to ease clinical depression, say researchers and low levels of folate have been linked to depression. A cup of cooked lentils provides 90% of the recommended daily allowance of folic acid-so try some lentil soup and be happy and healthy. Also, you could add frozen spinach and make a low-fat spinach dip, have a nice spinach salad or use on sandwiches instead of lettuce.

**Walnuts- Are a great source of omega 3 fatty acids-a type of fat that's needed for brain cells and mood-lifting . Also been shown to relieve mild depression. I love to eat walnuts as a snack but they are also delicious on salads. **Salmon-Salmon is also rich in omega fatty acids and canned Salmon with bones contains vitamin D which has been linked to possibly increasing our levels of serotonin- one of the key neurotransmitters influencing our mood.

I am going to start having more walnuts, oranges and bananas for snacks and incorporate spinach and lentils into my diet. Don't worry, I already have the desserts and chocolate covered. To feeling better!

Bet You Never Thought To Use A Cucumber For This! From Curing A Hangover To Bye, Bye Cellulite!

2009-11-23T06:42:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I get the greatest and informative emails and this is one of them on all the ways that you can use a cucumber to combat some small problems naturally. I am all for finding any way possible to use as few chemicals as possible. I did a post awhile back on how good cucumbers are for your body and now just look!!!!!! Wooohoooo! I am going to buy more cucumbers (plus my guinea pigs love them)!!!

This information was in The New York Times several
weeks ago as part of their "Spotlight on the Home" series that highlighted
creative and fanciful ways to solve common problems.

1. Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6,
Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and
Zinc.

2. Feeling tired in the afternoon, put down the caffeinated soda and pick
up a cucumber. Cucumbers are a good source of B Vitamins and Carbohydrates
that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.

3. Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a
cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a
soothing, spa-like fragrance.

4. Are grubs and slugs ruining your planting beds? Place a few slices in
a small pie tin and your garden will be free of pests all season long. The
chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminum to give off a scent
undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the area.

5. Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or
to the pool? Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem
area for a few minutes, the phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the
collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing the
visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles too!!!

6. Want to avoid a hangover or terrible headache? Eat a few cucumber
slices before going to bed and wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers
contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential
nutrients the body lost, keeping everything in equilibrium, avoiding both a
hangover and headache!!

7. Looking to fight off that afternoon or evening snacking binge?
Cucumbers have been used for centuries and often used by European trappers, traders
and explores for quick meals to thwart off starvation.

8. Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you
don't have enough time to polish your shoes? Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick and durable shine that not
only looks great but also repels water.

9. Out of WD 40 and need to fix a squeaky hinge? Take a cucumber slice
and rub it along the problematic hinge, and voila, the squeak is gone!

10. Stressed out and don't have time for massage, facial or visit to the
spa? Cut up an entire cucumber and place it in a boiling pot of water, the
chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber with react with the boiling water
and be released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma that has
been shown the reduce stress in new mothers and college students during
final exams.

11. Just finish a business lunch and realize you don't have gum or mints?
Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your
tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath, the phytochemcials will kill
the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.

12. Looking for a 'green' way to clean your faucets, sinks or stainless
steel? Take a slice of cucumber and rub it on the surface you want to clean,
not only will it remove years of tarnish and bring back the shine, but is
won't leave streaks and won't harm you fingers or fingernails while you
clean.

13. Using a pen and made a mistake? Take the outside of the cucumber and
slowly use it to erase the pen writing, also works great on crayons and
markers that the kids have used to decorate the walls!!

Give These 10 Power Foods To Give You Energy and Rev Up Your Engine

2009-10-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

An Oldie But A Goodie!

Everyday that I write this blog I become more and more aware of how important the right diet is for our overall health, immune system, body weight, energy level, moods and so much more. If you are anything at all like me then you need all the energy you can get to keep up with all the things each day puts in front of you. The below foods will get and keep you going full of energy as well as giving your immune system a nice boost.

Healthy Foods To Give You A Natural Boost

**Berries-Ooooohhhh, I love berries and now I have even more reasons! Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries are high in vitamin and fiber content, they're an excellent source of antioxidants, compounds that protect our bodies from the stress of day to day living, and fresh berries are kind to the waistline; they are naturally high in water and low in calories. Dried berries also provide excellent nutrition, but since most of the water is missing, their calories are more concentrated and you’ll usually wind up eating more of them.

**Citrus-Citrus fruits are loaded with vitamin C; one orange has a whole day’s requirement.They’re also loaded with soluble fiber which lowers cholesterol, maintains healthy blood sugar levels, and helps you to manage your weight.

**Salmon-Cold-water fish, like salmon, mackerel and herring, are premiere sources of omega-3 essential fatty acids. These are fats our bodies can’t produce, so it’s essential we include them in our diet. If you read my post about healthy hair, you will notice salmon was included in that post as well.

**Vegetables-There’s no such thing as a bad vegetable so eat up. Vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber, and are a crucial component of any healthy eating plan. Orange and yellow-hued veggies like winter squash, carrots and sweet potatoes and leafy greens contain carotenoids, a pigment our body converts to vitamin A. Eating lots of these vegetables will help maintain healthy skin and hair, protect against prostate cancer, promote healthy vision and even provide protection from sunburn. Lycopene, the plant chemical responsible for the ruby red of tomatoes and watermelon, is believed to fight cancer and promote heart health. Green vegetables like broccoli and spinach are sky-high in potent anti-cancer compounds like sulforaphane and quercitin.

**Nuts and Seeds-Almonds, pecans and pistachios are rich in protein. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids. Toss sesame seeds in a meal for extra calcium and vitamin E. Sesame, sunflower and pumpkin seeds are particularly good sources of phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, which promote heart health. These are easy to take with you for on the go energy. I take nuts everywhere and eat them all day. As I have mentioned probably a hundred times-nuts are my number one diet secret!

**Olive oil-Olive oil is an excellent source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that may lower the bad cholesterol and raise the good cholesterol. It contains Vitamin E and antioxidants and is an excellent replacement for unhealthy saturated fats like butter. I take a spoon full of olive oil before eating spaghetti so the bad fats in the pasta can't make me fat. Extra virgin olive oil is also great for healthy skin.

**Tea- Recent studies have shown drinking green tea might boost metabolism, oolong teas can lower blood sugar, and black teas can promote oral health. Tea contains half the caffeine of coffee and packs a punch of polyphenols, powerful antioxidants believed to protect against heart disease, certain cancers and stroke.

**Legumes-Beans, peas, peanuts and lentils are all part of the legume family. Legumes are rich in folic acid, calcium, iron, potassium, zinc and antioxidants. Their high protein and complex carbohydrates provide steady energy that lasts for hours. Also great for vegetarians (like me) who need protein.

**Whole grains-They’re delicious, inexpensive and packed with protein, B vitamins, minerals and fiber. Some immediate benefits you might notice are stable blood sugar, less hunger between meals, and better weight management.

**Lean Protein-Protein is an important part of every diet and is found in many different foods. Lean protein, the best kind, can be found in fish, skinless chicken and turkey, pork tenderloin and certain cuts of beef, like the top round. Low-fat dairy products like milk, yogurt, ricotta and other cheeses supply both protein and calcium. I also love extra firm tofu for a great protein!
It is very clear that whole grains, nuts, low-fat dairy, and fruits and veggies are essential for so many positive benefits to our health.
ref-The Food Network

3 Super Easy Tips To Speed Up Weight Loss and Say Bye Belly Fat!

2009-10-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

My new favorite magazine, “For Women First”, is always such a wealth of helpful and simple ways to do so many things and this latest bit of information on how to rev up your weight loss is no exception. I suppose that the two mini Snickers bars and diet Pepsi I just engulfed (yes before 7:00 a.m.) are going to have to go. Usually I am good and have fruit and green tea but remember that I am a wannabe health nut and we all have those days where the beloved chocolate and diet Pepsi vices are a must-we are all human after all. Hopefully these 3 little tips can help you out!

Eggs, eggs, and More Eggs For Breakfast –Women who eat two eggs each morning shed 65 percent more weight (and 83 percent more belly fat) than those who have a bagel of equal calories, according to a recent study. Eggs are chocked full of protein and stabilize blood sugar while increasing your metabolism by 25 percent for two hours and curb appetite to cut daily calorie intake. I despise eggs but have found if I cover them in hot sauce and cheese I can do it. I wonder if this counts? I think it should since it is all protein, right?

Vegetables At Every Meal-According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, adding veggies to every meal helps women to lose 25 percent more weight than reducing fat in their diet. Veggies have low calorie density so you eat more food but consume less calories and are still left feeling full and happy!

Psyllium Powder-Okay so the name does not bring to mind an enticing treat in the least but the people at Yale University research say that by increasing your fiber intake by 5 grams a day (equivalent of ½ tbs of psyllium husk powder mixed into a glass of water or juice) can melt 13 pounds of belly fat yearly. This is apparently double what women lose when counting calories. Fiber has the ability to slow carb absorption and balance blood sugar. If you have a better source of fiber as some fruits and vegetables you could add more of those to your diet as well.

Pharmacy of Nature!! A Fun Email Forward!

2009-10-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine at work forwarded this to me in an email and I found it really fun and interesting and thought you might as well. I don't know who wrote this so I cannot give credit where credit is due and I wish I could but I hope you enjoy.......

Nature's Pharmacy! Amazing!

A sliced Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye... And YES, science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to and function of the eyes.

A Tomato has four chambers and is red. The heart has four chambers and is red. All of the res earch shows tomatoes are loaded with lycopine and are indeed pure heart and blood food..

Grapes hang in a cluster that has the shape of the heart.. Each grape looks like a blood cell and all of the research today shows grapes are also profound heart and blood vitalizing food.

A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop more than three (3) dozen neuron-transmitters for brain function.

Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function and yes, they look exactly like the human kidneys.

Celery, Bok Choy, Rhubarb and many more look just like bones. These foods specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23% sodium and these foods are 23% sodium. If you don't have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. These foods replenish the skeletal needs of the body.

Avocadoes, Eggplant and Pears target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female - they look just like these organs. Today's research shows that when a woman eats one avocado a week, it balances hormones, sheds unwanted birth weight, and prevents c ervical cancers. And how profound is this? It takes exactly nine (9) months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit. There are over 14,000 photolytic chemical constituents of nutrition in each one of these foods (modern science has only studied and named about 141 of them).

Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow.
Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility.

Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.
Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries

Oranges, Grapefruits, and other Citrus fruits look just like the mammary glands of the female and actually assist the health of the breasts and the movement of lymph in and out of the breasts.

Onions look like the body's cells. Today's research shows onions help clear waste materials from all of the body cells. They even produce tears which wash the epithelial layers of the eyes. A working companion, Garlic, also helps eliminate waste materials and dangerous free radicals from the body.

Absolutely Awesome Aspirin! Car Battery, Calluses, Flowers, Rust and Pimples-Aspirin Cures It All

2009-10-07T12:11:00.000-07:00

When I read all the below things that aspirin can do I was really, really shocked! I went out and bought a big bottle and am going to give some of these a shot. I love finding easy and simple remedies for everyday problems so I hope that this helps you too!

Bye,Bye Itchy Bug Bites-Got a mosquito or bug bite that just won’t stop itching? Moisten the affected area and rub an aspirin tablet over the bumps. Aspirin has anti-inflammatory agents that seep into the sore and reduces swelling and discomfort.

Love Your Flowers Longer- If you want your flowers to last longer just drop two tablets of aspirin in the water before adding your fresh cut flowers. The aspirin decreases the PH level of the water which is a breeding ground for bacteria and causes your flowers to wilt sooner. By adding the aspirin it makes your bouquet last longer!

Ciao Calluses!-Just mix 1 Tbs. of lemon juice with five crushed aspirin tablets and apply to your calluses and cover with a plastic bag for 10 minutes. Remove the bag and rinse with warm water. The combo of acids in the lemon juice and aspirin will exfoliate the rough layer of dead skin cells.

Rust Marks Be gone-If you hate the rust marks on your bathroom counter as much as I do just wet the area, smash an aspirin tablet and sprinkle it on the mark then wipe away after 10 minutes.

Poof Pimples To Another Galaxy-This is so easy for those nasty and rude pimples! Simply crush an aspirin tablet, add enough water to make a paste and leave on your blemish overnight. In the morning you should be on your way to clear skin!!!

Dead Car Battery??? Aspirin To The Rescue-Is your car battery dead?? Well make sure you always have aspirin in the car because all you need to do is drop two tablets into the battery. The acetylsalicylic acid in the aspirin will react with the battery’s sulfuric acid to allow a strong enough charge to start your car.

Who knew? Really cannot believe all the great things aspirin can do besides get rid of my headaches. Hurrah for aspirin!

Ref- First For Women-9/14/09

Bite Into Basil Baby!! From Sexy Legs, Pain Relief And Belly Fat Burning To Looking Younger-Basil Has It!!!

2009-09-24T08:16:00.000-07:00

I have always been a fan of basil putting it in my salads, and using it to add flavor to many dishes (okay, I don’t cook much so yes, it can be sprinkled on tv, canned and boxed dinners). Really though, basil is very easy to chop up and throw into soups, vegetables, casseroles and just about anything- just look below at all the amazing benefits of a little basil! Mmmmmmmmm basil baby!

Sexy Legs With Basil- Just a couple tablespoons of fresh basil supplies,”60 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin K which stimulates the body’s production of thrombin, a clotting protein that obstructs circulation to damaged veins and reroutes blood to larger healthy vessels. Researchers at Maastricht University in the Netherlands discovered that this can cause spider and varicose veins to shrink and fade in as little as six weeks.”

Decreases Appearance of Wrinkles- By having basil on a regular basis you can improve the appearance of wrinkles by 66 percent in as little as 10 days. Basil has high concentrations of flavonoids, which help the body synthesize skin-plumping collagen. Basil is also pumped full of vitamin A and this speeds skin cell turnover to give you that glow we all want!

Basil Burns Fat-Bye, Bye Big Belly-For this alone I will eat basil by the handfuls! According to a study at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, basil has calcium which suppresses the body’s output of calcitriol, a hormone that gives you that increases fat storage in your stomach. The study showed that regular intake of basil melts abdominal fat 81 percent faster. Basil also is full of manganese which is a mineral that stabilizes levels of blood glucose-regulating insulin that staves off cravings and helps to downplay those sugar highs and lows.

Natural Pain Relief- According to research at Michigan State University in East Lansing, a nice big sprinkle of basil relieves muscle pain as well as a standard dose of aspirin. “Eugenol, a component of the herb’s natural oil, inhibits a key enzyme from synthesizing the inflammatory prostaglandins that over sensitize nerves”. I guess in terms I can understand that means it makes the pain go away.

Now, if you are not rushing to the store to get some basil and piling it on and in everything you eat I don’t know what to say. I just threw some in my green tea and it tastes….. interesting. Basil I love you for all you do!

Sex is Good For You! From Cancer To The Common Cold!! No More Excuses!

2009-09-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

It seems anytime I mention the word sex in a post I get more page views than ever so without further ado I am going to post once again one of my most popular articles ever!!! Enjoy in every way!

By Anna Magee http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

Making love could be one of the few pleasures in life that is genuinely good for you, say researchers.

Not only does a healthy sex life boost mood, but there is growing evidence to show it boosts your physical well-being, too - from increasing longevity to reducing the risk of erectile dysfunction and even heart attack.

Only last month, researchers at Nottingham University concluded that men who kept up a regular sex life in their 50s were also at lower risk of developing prostate cancer. In fact, the research seems to suggest that men - particularly older men - benefit the most from healthy effects of sex. Feel-good hormones help explain some of the benefits, such as mood-boosting, but the explanation is not always obvious. But one thing is clear, and this applies to both men and women: you need to be having sex regularly if you don't want to lose the ability.

Researchers had followed 1,000 men aged between 55 and 75 for five years and found that those who had sex less than once a week at the start of the study were twice as likely to develop erectile dysfunction (see below) as those who had it at least once a week. Those who had sex three or more times a week lowered their risk fourfold. 'Use it or lose it' was the advice given to older men by Finnish scientists recently.

As women get older their oestrogen levels drop, says Dr Peter Bowen-Simpkins, consultant gynaecologist at the London Women's Clinic and spokesperson for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. This hormone is key to a woman's sexual enjoyment - lower levels can make sex uncomfortable, he explains. But American research found that menopausal women who had sex every week had oestrogen levels twice as high as their abstaining counterparts. 'Regular sex increases the production of oestrogen,' says Dr Bowen-Simkins. As long as other symptoms, such as dryness, are not a problem or have been treated, having more sex can decrease the risk of vaginal atrophy which can occur with age, he says.

So what else can a regular love life do for your health?

Heart- Sex can be good for your heart. The idea that men are more at risk of a heart attack during love-making is mostly misconception, say experts. Professor Peter Weisberg, medical director of the British Heart Foundation, says there is no evidence that men who have sex regularly in their 40s, 50s and beyond are at an increased risk of heart attack. 'As far as the heart is concerned, sex is just another form of exercise,' says Dr Graham Jackson, consultant cardiologist at Guy's & St Thomas' Hospital and president of the Sexual Dysfunction Association. 'In fitness terms, it's equivalent is going for a mile-long walk or climbing up and down two flights of stairs. If you're physically fit enough for that, there should be no increased risk during sex.' A study at Queens University in Belfast found that having sex three times a week could actually halve the risk of heart attack or stroke. However, if you are over 50, overweight and unfit, there is a risk to your heart - just as there would be if you suddenly and vigorously took up any form of exercise.

Loving Feeling: A study found those who had sex less than once a month had double the risk of dying prematurely than those who had sex twice a week.

Prostate -Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in British men, affecting 35,000 a year. Previous research suggested that greater sexual activity was linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer, but findings from Nottingham University (published in the British Journal Of Urology International) suggest the opposite is true: that increased activity is protective for older men. This backs up the findings of a major study five years ago by the National Cancer Institute, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Previous studies have suggested the reduced risk is due to the release of toxins from the prostate gland. 'We can't say for certain that having regular sex can protect older men from prostate cancer, because such studies don't prove the mechanism through which risk is reduced,' says Dr Geoffrey Hackett, consultant urologist at Good Hope Hospital, Sutton Coldfield, and former chairman of the British Society for Sexual Medicine. 'But many men who maintain a regular sex life are also likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle in terms of regular exercise and a better diet. That's likely playing a bigger part in their prostate cancer risk reduction.' Bones 'Testosterone levels have been found to increase during and after sex,' says GP Dr Sarah Brewer. 'This may provide some protection against male osteoporosis.' Sexual activity can also protect you against other unwanted changes. Some scientists have linked low levels of sexual activity to structural changes in the penis or testicles which appear to reduce them in size. 'We know that men who don't have regular ejaculations or sexual intercourse have lower levels of testosterone,' says Professor Pierre Bouloux, consultant endocrinologist at University College London and the Royal Free Hospital. And if your testosterone levels fall and you don't get erections, there is some evidence that the penile tissues can lose some of their elasticity, which in turn could make them appear smaller.

Mood-lift: The neurotransmitter serotonin is the body's key anti-depressant and a major reason people smile after sex Mood The evidence suggests that the 'feelgood' effect of making love could be more about chemicals than sexual ability. 'During lovemaking and orgasm, a cocktail of endorphins (the body's natural mood-lifting opiates), neurotransmitters and hormones are released,' says Professor Nadir Farid, consultant endocrinologist and founder of the London Endocrine Clinic. 'Oxytocin, in particular, is a hormone released during and after sex that has been shown to make people more generous towards their partners and can also help induce calm and sleep,' he adds. Oxytocin is called the 'cuddling' hormone because it's released after just 20 minutes of hugging. Women produce four times as much as men, for whom production is inhibited by the prevalence of the hormone testosterone, which drives libido. Another key neurotransmitter is serotonin, says Professor Farid. 'Serotonin is the body's key antidepressant chemical and one of the major reasons people smile and feel happy and relaxed after sex.' Sexually active women in longterm relationships were less likely to be depressed than women who went without sex, according to a study of nearly 300 women by American psychologist Gordon Gallup and published in the Archives Of Sexual Behaviour. Gallup speculated that semen contains several hormones which may have a mood-boosting effect when they are absorbed through the vaginal wall into the bloodstream.

Immunity -Having more sex might increase immunity from colds and flu. Having sex once or twice a week has been linked with higher levels of immunoglobulin A, or IgA, a substance found in saliva and the nasal lining thought to help our immune systems fight colds and flu. In one study, scientists asked 11 volunteers how often they had had sex over the previous month, then measured levels of IgA in their saliva. Those who had sex once a week or less had a slight increase, compared with those who abstained; but those who made love more often had 30 per cent higher levels. Professor Ron Eccles, director of the Common Cold Centre and Healthcare Clinical Trials at Cardiff School of Biosciences, is not convinced, though, that sex itself is the key. It's known that stress and anxiety can also make IgA levels go down, so according to Professor Eccles any connection between sex and colds may be related to other factors.

Cold cure? -Having more sex might increase immunity from colds and flu. Longevity One of the largest studies on longevity and sex - conducted on Welsh men - found that those who had sex less than once a month had double the risk of dying prematurely than those who had sex twice a week. 'Sexual activity seems to have a protective effect on men's health,' says GP Dr Sarah Brewer. 'This may be linked with the effects of the master sex hormone, DHEA or dehydroepiandroterone, which is made in the adrenal glands and functions as a building block of other hormones such as oestrogen, testosterone and progesterone. 'DHEA levels rise just before orgasm and ejaculation to three times higher than normal, and some claim this is how regular sex can prolong your life.'

Fertility- For people trying to conceive, one of the biggest myths associated with fertility is that refraining from ejaculation boosts sperm mobility - the rate at which individual sperm can move forwards to penetrate an egg for fertilisation, says gynaecologist Dr Gillian Lockwood, medical director of Midlands Fertility Services. 'When sperm is hanging around in the epididymis, the long coiled tube in the back of the testes where sperm is stored, it dies off rapidly,' she says. 'Unless a man has a low sperm count, the more often he has sex, then the better the quality of his sperm.' Preliminary results of a small study two years ago, by Australian researchers, found that in men whose sperm showed significant DNA damage, daily ejaculation reduced this damage by 12 per cent. 'When it comes to sex for fertility, having sex little and often - at least every other night - is far better than lots of it on infrequent occasions.'

Well I guess you know what you need to do to stay healthy:)

What To Buy And Not Buy When Going Organic!! Save Money With These Tips!

2009-09-08T07:39:00.000-07:00

I will be the first to admit that I love to spend money. I love to shop and buying healthy organic food is no exception (who knew grocery shopping could be so fun-but hey it IS shopping). Unfortunately, I have to be on a budget in all areas and this includes my organic food choices. I looked around and found some helpful information on which are the top foods to buy organic if you are like me and on a budget ( I hate the word budget). Here we go-

Top Foods To Buy Organic-Worth The Money

**Peaches-In some studies, they’ve had up to 10 times as much pesticide on them as other fruits and vegetables.

**Apples-Apples may contain methyl parathion. Both fresh apples and baby food applesauce can also contain chlorpyrifos, an OP which has caused large bird kills. Doesn't sound good.

**Strawberries-Strawberries receive a dose of up to 500 pounds of pesticides per acre.Straw-berries and other produce bought out-of-season are the most likely to have been imported, possibly from a country with less-stringent pesticide regulations.

**Milk-While milk is a natural product, all the antibiotics and hormones that go into high-yield cows most certainly aren’t. Some studies on supplements like recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) used in conventional milk production have suggested links to early puberty and other hormonal abnormalities. Danish studies have shown that not only does organic milk have less of the bad stuff, it has more of the good stuff. Specifically, organic milk has higher levels of vitamin E, omega-3 essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Did you know that Europe has banned U.S. Milk? I also make sure to buy organic cheese, yogurt and all dairy products when possible.

**Meat-. Contrary to a widely reported "fact," meat typically contains less pesticide residue than plant-based foods, according to Debra Edwards, the director of EPA's Office of Pesticide Programs. That said, raising animals with conventional modern methods often means using hormones to speed up growth, antibiotics to resist disease and pesticides to grow the grain fed to the animals (plus I think modern methods promote cruelty to animals-had to get that in there). As the EPA puts it in an Ag 101 feature, "Antibiotics, pesticides, and hormones are organic compounds which are used in animal feeding operations and may pose risks if they enter the environment." Consumers looking to avoid meats raised with these substances can seek out certified organic meat. To meet USDA standards, this meat can come only from animals fed organic feed and given no hormones or antibiotics.

**Coffee-Many of the beans you buy are grown in countries where pesticides and chemicals are not regulated. Look for the fair trade certified organic label on your coffee for assurance.

**Eggs-Though they are a terrific source of protein, most eggs are produced using a range of antibiotics and hormones on the chickens that bear them. Given this, the health gains of eating organic eggs are similar to those of drinking organic milk. Essentially, organic eggs mean fewer hormones in the chicken and fewer foreign hormones (or chemicals acting as hormones) in your body.

**Celery, Grapes and Sweet Bell Peppers-Peppers and grapes have thin skins and celery none which creates little and no barrier to pesticides.

**Potatoes-Chlorothalonil, often used on potatoes, can be particularly harmful to children. In Canada, potatoes have been linked to high rates of asthma and asthma-related deaths in farming communities.

Spinach-Leafy greens are often contaminated with what are considered the most potent pesticides used on food.

Save Some Money And Probably Don't Need To Buy These Foods Organic-

**Broccoli,
**Bananas
**Frozen sweet peas
**Frozen corn
**Asparagus
**Avocados
**Onions:
Levels of pesticides are low even in conventional versions of these.
Now you are armed and ready to save money and go do some organic shopping!

Be A Hero And Go Organic!!!! Benefits Of Going Organic!

2009-09-01T19:06:00.000-07:00

In recent years there has been alot of buzz about going organic. I try to buy as many organic products as I can afford (tomorrow I will write about going organic on a budget) and feel that my family benefits from this. When I first started understanding the importance of organic products I was appalled about what really goes on in the food industry. I am by no means even remotely perfect at buying organic but I am making an effort. If an organic super spy came to my house they would throw me in the your an organic fraud jail. I think I could plead innocence because I do not profess to be more than a wannabe so you genuine health nuts go easy on me. I really do the best I can as far as purchasing organic and you will see why below.

What Does Organic Really Mean??

An organic product is raised, grown, and processed without the use of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, antibiotics or hormones. Only farmers who produce food according to USDA organic standards and become certified by an independent third-party accredited agent can label their product as "certified organic" (with the exception of very small farms with sales under $5000 annually).

Why You Should Consider Going Organic

**Organic products meet stringent standards. Organic certification is the public’s assurance that products have been grown and handled according to strict procedures without persistent toxic chemical inputs.

**Organic farmers build healthy soil. Soil is the foundation of the food chain. The primary focus of organic farming is to use practices that build healthy soils.

**Organic production reduces health risks. Many EPA-approved pesticides were registered long before extensive research linked these chemicals to cancer and other diseases. Organic agriculture is one way to prevent any more of these chemicals from getting into the air, earth and water that sustain us.

**Taste Better and Truer Flavor. Scientists now know what we eaters have known all along: organic food often tastes better. It makes sense that strawberries taste yummier when raised in harmony with nature, but researchers at Washington State University just proved this as fact in lab taste trials where the organic berries were consistently judged as sweeter. Plus, new research verifies that some organic produce is often lower in nitrates and higher in antioxidants than conventional food. Let the organic feasting begin!

** Reduce The Toxic Load: Keep Chemicals Out of the Air, Water, Soil and our Bodies. Buying organic food promotes a less toxic environment for all living things. With only 0.5 percent of crop and pasture land in organic, according to USDA that leaves 99.5 percent of farm acres in the U.S. at risk of exposure to noxious agricultural chemicals.Our bodies are the environment so supporting organic agriculture doesn’t just benefit your family, it helps all families live less toxically.

I found some additional information on which foods you should purchase if you are on a budget and can only choose a few organic items and I will put that in tomorrow's post. So, if you are like me and have to pick and choose you will know which ones are more important than others as far as organic goes. I also support my local farmers market which is a great way to buy produce at a reasonable price. So, please check back over the next few days and check out organics on a budget.

Stare At Those Cookies and Cakes and You Might Eat Healthier???/

2009-08-24T09:48:00.000-07:00

Alright I am sorry, sorry, sorry! It has been two weeks and one week with no computer and then this week just so busy that I have not been up on my blogging, commenting and dropping. I have got to get back in the groove and I will soon. I did see this article in the www.dailymail.co.uk and loved it. I want this to work for me but I am not so sure as when I see chocolate I obsess over it until I devour it. What do you think?

By: Fiona Macrae

“Have your cake... and avoid it: The sight of treats encourages healthy eating
Women who want to lose weight can have their cake – as long as they don’t eat it, scientists believe.
A study found that showing weight-conscious women pictures of sweet treats strengthens their resolve to eat healthily.
The finding suggests that glossy adverts designed to make cakes, chocolate and desserts irresistible may actually have the opposite effect.
It also means that the secret to losing weight could be as simple as decorating your fridge door with pictures of forbidden tasty treats.

Dutch psychologists asked 54 female students to look at a picture of either a slice of chocolate cake or a flower under the guise of a memory test.
The Utrecht University researchers then questioned the students about any plans to eat more healthily before offering them a choice between a chocolate or oatmeal cookie.
Women shown the cake picture made healthy eating a higher priority than those shown the flower.
They were also significantly more likely to pick the healthier option of the oatmeal cookie, New Scientist reports.
Researcher Floor Kroese said feelings of guilt may help strengthen resolve against temptation.
She said: ‘Food temptations do not always trigger indulgence.
‘It seems that seeing a food temptation reminded people of their goal to watch their weight and helped them act accordingly.’
She said that sticking pictures of tempting foods on the fridge door may help to bring weight-watching goals to mind.
But pictures pinned up should be of the dieter’s favourite forbidden treat, as anything less could backfire and lead to a raid on the biscuit tin.
Ayelet Fishbach, a professor of behavioural studies at the University of Chicago, agreed that looking at pictures of cakes and other sweet treats could benefit slimmers.
‘In moderation, this positive impact of food temptations will overcome the negative impact – the urge to indulge,’ she said.

Previous research has suggested that it is possible to eat chocolate and lose weight, as long as it is early in the day.
Women who ate a big breakfast, complete with a generous slab of chocolate, lost more weight than those who started the day with a small breakfast.
They were also less likely to pile the pounds back on.
The researchers said starting the day with a sweet treat could curb later cravings for calorie-rich foods. “

10 Simple and Easy Ways To Help You Lose Weight-You Can Do This!

2009-08-10T06:23:00.000-07:00

It seems like I am always looking for a new way to stay slim and healthy and I am not quite sure why this is because really there is no magic solution. As the ten easy to follow rules for weight loss show we just need to stick to the basics and we will be alright. By following the 10 rules below obese adults who were given a pamphlet with these 10 basic rules were motivated enough to lose 4 pounds in 8 weeks. By following them all you could take off up to 900 calories a day-which is about 15 pounds over an 8 week period. Really not too tough to do and simple to follow.

10 Easy To Follow Rules For Weight Loss

1. Choose low fat foods.

2. Pack healthy snacks-think fruit, veggies, organic cheese sticks, nuts instead of chips, or candy bars.

3. Stand for 10 minutes every hour-it keeps your metabolism going

4. Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and veggies daily.

5. Eat small to moderate portions and skip seconds.

6. Check the fat and sugar content on lables-remember that even things like ketchup and pasta can be packed with sugar so you want to really keep your eyes open.

7. Avoid high caloric and sugary drinks-They may taste great but moderation is the key here if you must have them.

8. Eat your meals on a regular schedule-I know this can be tough sometimes on a busy schedule but try your best and keep healthy low-fat snacks with you when you may have to skip a meal. I try to eat lots of small meals each day and this keeps me from getting too hungry.

9. Wear a pedometer and walk 10,000 steps a day. Hmmmm-I have not tried this one but probably should. I always wondered how much I really walk in a day.

10. Turn off the television while you eat. I can see how this would help as it is easy to sit and watch tv while eating comfort food. It diverts your attention from how much you are actually eating.
Ref-Prevention magazine 2008-my new fave.

These really are simple and easy to follow and basic rules to help you take or keep the weight off.

Forever Young-Simple Tips To Keep You Youthful And Less Wrinkles Too!!!!

2009-08-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

I am always up for new ways to stay youthful so here are a couple tips I found in my Self magazine that are quite simple to embrace with lasting and great results! Short and sweet too!

Add some fiber to your diet-By adding 10 grams of cholesterol slashing fiber (think black beans and pears) to your diet you may reduce the risk of coronary death by 17 percent according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Vitamin C, Vitamin C, Vitamin C-According to a study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, women who ate the most Vitamin C were 11 percent less likely to to look wrinkly than those who got the least. Vitamin C’s role in creating collagen and its antioxidant powers may deliver the soothing benefits. Try some oranges or strawberries!

One More Reason To Love Your Pet Even More-Your Health!

2009-07-30T06:04:00.000-07:00

This has to be one of my favorite posts as I love animals so much !

If you ever have had or currently are lucky enough to be a guardian of a pet ,you probably understand the wonderful calming affect a pet can have on you (unless you come home and find your chair and love seat completely eaten like I have in the past-it can be a bit stressful). After a long day there is nothing better than relaxing with my dogs and cats. Just their presence is calming to me and if I am really upset there is nothing that can calm me down better than a few minutes of snuggling with my cat Baby Jaap. I could not imagine a life without animals as their humorous antics, intriguing habits and unconditional love make my life so complete and
enjoyable. Don't just take my word for it-read on.

Health Benefits Of Having A Pet

**More and more studies are beginning to show evidence that children who live in homes with animals that have fur (cat, dog, guinea pig,etc) and large animals are less at risk for allergies, eczema (skin rash condition) and asthma. There is also some discussion that children in those homes may have stronger immune system activation.

**Heart attack patients who have pets survive longer than those without, according to several studies.

**People with pets actually make fewer doctor visits, especially for non-serious medical conditions.

**Pets help fight depression and loneliness-The antics of animals at play keep you lighthearted. The presence of a dog prompts the daily walk you otherwise might postpone. Having a cat means regular exposure to contented purring, with its guaranteed-to-be calming effect on your psyche. Furry critters encourage life-critical social interactions and feeding and grooming routines offer structure and purpose to a life lived alone. More here.

**Pets can help lower your blood pressure-Dr. Karen Allen, a researcher at the State University of New York at Buffalo, showed that people with hypertension who adopted a dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did those who did not own a pet.

**Dr. Meredith Wells, an assistant professor of psychology at Eastern Kentucky University, surveyed businesses that allow pets in the workplace and found that employees believe that the animals reduce stress and improve their mental and physical health. More here.

**Pets promote social interaction, decrease the feeling of loneliness and isolation, and increase morale and optimism.

**Pets satisfy the need for touch and to be touched, and give nonjudgmental warmth and affection.

**Pets encourage playfulness, exercise, and laughter.

I would like to also point out that a pet is a responsibility and getting one is not to be taken lightly. Taking care of an animal is a lifelong commitment so if you are not in it for the long haul I do not recommend a pet for you (animal shelters are full of wonderful abandoned pets so please be responsible). If you are looking for a pet I highly recommend adopting one from an animal shelter. All my animals are from shelters (or they just showed up) and I really believe that they know you saved them. Shelter pets are wonderful and you save a life. Go hug your pet-you'll feel better!

No more stinky litterboxes with…….GREEN TEA!

2009-07-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

I have a full post coming up but this ridiculous cough, throat and now chest thing is being very stubborn and rude and is hanging on so I have been still not feeling well and not up to all my usual blogging, commenting, dropping, etc so I do apologize. It has been almost 2 weeks with this sickness so I imagine I will have to go to the doctor and get an antibiotic (I only go to the doctor if I am half dead ) so that I can get rid of this and back on my feet. I promise to get back to all the great blogs that I read and drop on asap!

In the meantime, since I am on a green tea kick and have cats I found the below information really great and since I know a lot of you have cats as well you might find this helpful!

No more stinky litterboxes with…….GREEN TEA!

I tried this and it worked!!! Joy, joy, joy! Even though we have a cat door at our house and the litterbox is in the basement I still hate the smell! All you need to do is take the tea leaves from your cup of green tea (yes, I am sure you all drink green tea everyday because it is so healthy for you), let them dry and then sprinkle on the litter. The catechin in the herb has antibacterial properties to kill any odor and the scent deters fleas. This is the same way that green tea deters bad breath!! Love it! I am drinking green tea right now and just can’t get over all the great things about it!! Give it a shot and let me know!

Tea, Tea Your The One For Me! Health Benefits of Tea!

2009-07-16T22:33:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I am pulling this from my archives since I love tea so much and right now am losing my voice with a sore throat so tea sounds delicious. Will be back with a new post soon!

Have a cup of tea-you may live longer and be protecting yourself from an array of ailments. The antioxidants in tea appear to improve concentration, gently boost energy, make people happier, lower cholesterol levels, improve cardiovascular health and help guard against some cancers. And some experts believe its flavenoids may inhibit the growth of plaque on teeth (less visits to the dentist). The free radical-inhibiting property of tea is more potent than that of vitamin E, and tea is a proven preventive and treatment for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). The polyphenols in tea, especially the catechins, are powerful antioxidants that help ward off diabetes and cancer. I find that drinking tea can be both soothing (nothing like a nice cup of hot tea in the evening) and invigorating (delicious ice tea with all natural Stevia sweetener).

Tea Tidbits

**Slim Down With Tea-As a weight loss tool, tea is a wonderfully cleansing way to flush the system, replace fluids - and pump the body full of powerful antioxidants at the same time. Aside from the health benefits, tea is a zero-calorie beverage, making it your best choice for weight loss. Tea, especially green tea, have been known to speed up fat oxidation and increase the metabolic rate. Along with caffeine, the catechin polyphenols present in tea helps speed up the rate at which calories are burnt, thereby increasing substantially the energy consumed.

**Heart Health- People who consume three or more cups of tea a day have an 11 percent lower rate of heart attacks than those who drink less, according to a study presented to the American College of Cardiology. Other studies suggest that tea may also reduce levels of LDL cholesterol and repair blood-vessel damage in heart patients.

**Green Tea- is famous for its calming effect on both body and mind. Studies have shown that this calming effect is caused by the L- Theanine amino acid found in the leaves of green tea. L-Theanine affects the central nerve system, causing certain substances to be released which cause a sense of euphoria, optimism and serenity while neutralizing the vigor which accompanies the consumption of caffeine in tea.

**Caffeinated Teas -may help to prevent cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and osteoporosis, as well as boosting the immune system.

**Brewed Teas are Best-To achieve the greatest health benefits, drink tea brewed from loose leaves or teabags. The longer the tea is steeped, the more antioxidants it will provide (though the caffeine content will also rise with steeping time). Tea should be allowed to steep for at least 3-5 minutes so that the majority of its antioxidants will be released. Iced teas made from brewed tea leaves are as high in antioxidants as hot teas. Iced teas should be kept in sealed containers and refrigerated. Powdered teas are not as high in antioxidants and thus will not offer the same health benefits. Most bottled teas consist predominantly of sugar and water and are not a good source of antioxidants.

**Herbal Teas-Herbal teas do not offer the same benefits as black, red, green and white caffeinated teas, but they can provide a number of other health benefits.

**Tea provides about 22% of the total intake of flavonoids in the U.S. diet, almost as much as fruits (28%) and vegetables (26%).

**Green tea catechins have been shown to protect the liver against toxins such as alcohol and cigarette smoke.

Tea is delicious and calorie-free to boot! I think I will go and have a glass now. Why don't you!

A Couple of Wonderful Awards!!!

2009-07-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky and really excited today because two really fantastic bloggers were kind enough to think of me and pass on some fantastic awards! Dori who writes From A Yellow House In England passed on the Neno Award to me and TR Hughes from A Guide To Life For Women passed on the Best Blog Award. These are two fantastic blogs and both are very interesting, fun and terrific to stop by. I hope that you will stop by and visit these two wonderful blogs!!

Here are the rules:

The Neno Award is given to "those who love blogging and love to encourage friendships through blogging, and to help others seek the reasons why we all love blogging." Here are the steps with this award:- Upload the image in your post- Mention the person that gives you the award with their blog link- Nominate your 5 blogs of choice with blog name and link- Leave comment on the recipients' posts to let them know. Here are my picks:

-The Superficial Gallery

-A Maidens Testimony

-Coming Back To Life

-East Coast Life

-Healthy Moms

The Best Blog Award rules are:

1) To accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his/her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve discovered and think are great! Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

For this award I was going to pick 15 but I started and found I had way, way, way too many so decided to stop and pass this on to all of you great readers, droppers and commenter's. Feel free to post this award!!

Please do not feel the need to participate if it is not your thing but just bask in the glory of being awarded:)

I encourage you all to stop by and visit all these wonderful super blogs!

Blues Busting Foods! No More Grumpy, Cranky Days For You With These Healthy Foods!

2009-07-07T07:45:00.000-07:00

Food, food, glorious food! I love to eat and am having so much fun learning just how important our diets are to every aspect of our lives-including helping to boost our spirits. It is wonderful to have information on health and diet so we can feel more in control of our lives and be our best inside and out. After reading this you will have no more excuses to be cranky, got it?!
We've all had those days when we feel down and don't know why or we just need a pick me up (actually we have had those days when we are outright terrors if the truth be told). These healthy food choices will actually help to rev your engine and chase those blues away. Hello sunshine!

**Try Some Dessert- Yes! You read that right, try some dessert! Sugar soothes us when we're feeling stressed out ( I know that to be true and will take full advantage). But before you binge on a pan of brownies, cookies and candy, know that a little sugar may soothe you, but too much will wreak havoc with your blood sugar. So, as always moderation is the key here.

**Beans -Like most legumes, beans are rich in iron. If you're low on iron like many active people are--you can be tired and have trouble sleeping, which as we all know can make you cranky, cranky, cranky. Beans are great thrown in salads, over white rice, in a tortilla with salsa, in chili and soups.

**Bananas-Stress and the lack of magnesium are so closely related that it is a good idea for those who lead an active life to add foods rich in magnesium, such as bananas to their diet. Increasing the intake of magnesium reduces anxiety and makes for better sleeping.

**Oranges-Two glasses of fresh orange juice are enough to help say goodbye to some nervousness, bad moods and depression; lack of vitamin C, can make you irritable and cranky.

**Chocolate-Hurrah! Hurrah! Now I know it cannot get any better than this! Some experts believe that like many other foods sweet and rich in carbohydrates, chocolate can have a soothing effect; others, however, consider that the caffeine and other substances contained in chocolate could act as stimulants. I don't care why, I am just so glad to hear it! Ahem, moderation here though, again.

**Spinach and Lentils-Both Lentils and spinach are full of folate, a B vitamin that you need to make the serotonin that makes you feel good. Folate is strong enough to ease clinical depression, say researchers and low levels of folate have been linked to depression. A cup of cooked lentils provides 90% of the recommended daily allowance of folic acid-so try some lentil soup and be happy and healthy. Also, you could add frozen spinach and make a low-fat spinach dip, have a nice spinach salad or use on sandwiches instead of lettuce. More food tips here, and here.
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**Walnuts- Are a great source of omega 3 fatty acids-a type of fat that's needed for brain cells and mood-lifting . Also been shown to relieve mild depression. I love to eat walnuts as a snack but they are also delicious on salads.

**Salmon- is also rich in omega fatty acids and canned Salmon with bones contains vitamin D which has been linked to possibly increasing our levels of serotonin- one of the key neurotransmitters influencing our mood.

I am going to start having more walnuts, oranges and bananas for snacks and incorporate spinach and lentils into my diet. Don't worry, I already have the desserts and chocolate covered. To feeling better!

Your Diet Doesn’t Have To Be A Riot-Healthy Tips To A Trim Tummy And Slimmer You!!

2009-07-02T08:05:00.000-07:00

I know it takes some effort but really with a little determination and following some of the below guidelines you can find yourself on the road to a slimmer you. I am taking this one step further and am about to start a 90 day fitness program created by the most brilliant health/fitness person I have encountered, Christopher Warden so I am with you all in the ongoing struggle to look and feel our best. For now I am providing you with these tips but in the upcoming weeks I will be posting about my 90 day health and fitness program (including a 30 day detox of no sugar, caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, starchy carbs or dairy-whole foods only-God help me survive those 30 days without chocolate and diet Pepsi). Hope these can help you feel great in your swimsuit/bikini!

-Never ever, and I mean ever skip breakfast-“When you wake up hungry and skip breakfast,Leptin levels can change encouraging the body to hold onto body fat” (Paul Byrne fitness). I recommend a high protein low carb breakfast such as plain yogurt with fresh berries and nuts.

-Start Cooking veggies if you want a less bloated Stomach (who doesn’t???)-Cooked veggies cause less stomach swelling than their raw counterparts. Beware of broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage which can cause bloating.

Keep Protein lean, lean, lean so you are a lean machine-Protein that is fatty or fried delays stomach emptying, and beans cause tummy inflation. But filling protein such as fish, skinless chicken, tofu and lean red meat does not do either.

Eat less later in the day-“As the day goes on, reserves of carbohydrates in the muscle called muscle glycogen tend to fill up. As glycogen's stores approach “full” the body tends to become more efficient at storing food, especially carbs, into body fat.” (Paul Byre of Paul Byrne fitness)

Monkeys have the right idea!-Have a banana, orange or some delicious cantaloupe as these are high in potassium which help flush excess sodium from the body, flattening the tummy.

Fiber, fiber and even more fiber-Fiber acts as a natural detoxicant for the body and helps regulate the digestive system.

Basic keys to losing weight and staying slim are in a nutshell-drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day (or half your body weight-ex-100lb person should drink at least 50 ounces of water a day), eat several small meals throughout the day to keep your metabolism revved. Lean protein, dark greens and healthy fats (olive oil, nuts) help fill the body up with minimal calories. The more refined carbs, sugar, sodium, fried foods, alcohol and carbonated and caloric beverages cut out of your diet the better!

Want To Burn Fat!! Give These Fat Burning Foods A Try!

2009-06-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Several months ago I received a copy of Good Housekeeping magazine in the mail. I found this very strange because I knew that I had not ordered it- if I was going to order a magazine it would be something more like People, US magazine or some tabloid trash that I adore. At first, I thought maybe it was a mistake and would have someone else's address on it, but it had my name and address. I still have not figured out this mystery but figure either one of me well intentioned friends or in-laws sent it in hopes I would become more of a homemaker (fat chance). The point of this is that I received another issue today and found this article that I loved and thought I would share with you. The article is about the top 7 super foods to eat to slim down faster. I'm always looking for help and thought these sounded great.

Super Foods To Rev Up Your Metabolism

**Tofu-is a good source of leucine-a friendly protein that helps you stay thin. Dietary leucine in tofu is an amino acid linked to maintaining muscle mass and reducing body fat during weight loss. I think that the extra firm tofu is the best so if you are new to tofu I would give this a shot first.

**Green Tea-has caffeine and catechins (plant nutrients) that might help raise your metabolic rate by up to 3.5 percent. So studies indicate that green tea may give you an increased metabolism, a positive effect on blood sugar and insulin regulation, and possibly the inhibiting of certain enzymes which are required for the processing of carbohydrates and fats. It is recommended to sip 32 ounces a day. I love green tea with a little Stevia-cold or hot!

**Lean Meats-are rich in protein, which takes more energy to digest than carbs or fats. Protein makes you feel satisfied too. (I'm a vegetarian but I refuse to be biased).

**Whole-Grain Cereal-complex carbs in the morning are a great way to fuel your body for the day ahead. I find that these also keep you fuller longer so you aren't apt to snack on unhealthy alternatives.

**Coffee-Caffeine speeds up your metabolism making it easier for us to burn more calories --- even while at rest, and coffee gives you more energy for a tougher workout that lasts longer, making it possible to burn more calories (if you exercise that is-I am still working on getting the exercise in).

**Low-Fat Dairy-it is packed with protein and helps build muscle and banish fat. Pls. keep in mind that due to all the bovine growth hormone in our dairy products I am not a big proponent of dairy unless it is organic and then I say proceed with some caution. Did you know that U.S. milk is banned in Europe because of the bgh hormone? Another scary food thought.

**Nuts-packed with protein and fiber, a handful (or entire jar a day in my case) at snack time keeps your body full. Anyone who reads my blog on a regular basis knows that my number one diet secret is NUTS. I love them and it is the only way I can stay thin. Long live nuts!

ref for this article from my mysteriously appearing Good Housekeeping April 2008.

Forget Botox-Exercise To Look Younger!!

2009-06-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a little motivation to exercise (who isn't!)? As much as I enjoy going to the gym and doing my strength training, there are days that I would just rather do anything else but a little exercise. So, when I discovered that by even moderately exercising I can look younger well, that was all that I needed to keep me going. There really are so many benefits to exercising but I must say that this has to be one of the best! According to an article that I read in the mirror.co.uk we can actually slow aging and look younger.

The study looked at twins and found that there was a 9 year difference between those that exercised regularly and those that did not. "It said: "Our results show that adults who do regular physical activity are biologically younger than sedentary individuals."Researchers at King's College, London, and at a leading US institute in Baltimore studied aging in 2,400 sets of twins by analysing telomeres. Telomeres, which cap the end of chromosomes in cells, shorten with age leaving people susceptible to cell damage which can cause disease, muscles to weaken, skin wrinkles, eyesight and hearing fade, organs fail, and thinking clouds."

A Few Ways That Exercise Can Keep You Feeling And Looking Younger

**Improves Energy Levels-Numerous studies show that regular exercise (cardio or strength training) will make you feel less tired and give you more energy. Those on a regular exercise routine were also found to sleep better, and to be much more alert.

**Reduces Stress Which Improves Skin-I have a friend who swears by exercise for her acne. When you exercise and become fitter, your body releases anti-stress chemicals that help to neutralize those chemicals that stress produces therefore your skin has a youthful glow (I think this could absolutely help with acne as well). Stress wreaks havoc on your skin, and organs so by relieving stress through exercise you can be on your way to a younger you. Keep in mind to only adhere to an exercise routine that you are comfortable with. Too much exercise can actually cause your body to stress so listen to your body.

**HGH Production-HGH is the human growth hormone that we all have. " If you don’t have enough HGH in your body, your skin is likely to sag, you will develop wrinkles, your energy levels will be low and you will be more prone to gaining excess weight, especially around your waist. It also improves our cardiac function, sexual function, lean mass, hair thickness, and younger skin texture. Enough HGH and it will also eliminate cellulite, and your skins elasticity will increase. By age 20, your natural HGH supply is decreasing. Thankfully, regular exercise can stimulate your body to produce more HGG and that means you'll look and feel younger." Source here.

**More Toned-We all know that toned skin looks better than sagging skin. Exercise tones the muscle and speeds up your metabolism which in turn keeps your weight down and helps you avoid many problems associated with weight gain (diabetes, heart disease). Plus, you will look terrific with a nice toned tummy.

If your looking for the fountain of youth, I would have to say that you are going to find it in an exercise routine that fits your lifestyle and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein and water. Why waste your money on plastic surgery, botox, and expensive creams when the answer is right in front of you.

Ode To The Cucumber-Healthy Reasons To Love Cucumbers!

2009-06-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

Cucumber, cucumber I love you! Cucumber, cucumber you taste great , you remove puffiness from eyes before a big date. Cucumber, cucumber healthy part of a diet, you keep me skinny so I don’t cause a riot. Cucumber, cucumber delicious to me, you have so many benefits look below to see…..

Corny poem I know but it came to me and sometimes I get bored with all my normal writing so why not? I am not Shakespeare or even close but I do l love my cucumbers so why not a little love poem! Really though, cucumbers are probably one of my favorite things to eat! I slice them up and snack on them throughout the day-sometimes I will have 2 or 3 huge ones. They always make me feel full and refreshed and have so many health benefits. See for yourself:

Healthy Reasons to love those cucumbers!

-Composed of mostly water, low in calories and packed with nutrients. The cucumbers high water content helps keep the body hydrated, regulates body temperature, rids the body of excess fluids and cleanses the body of harmful wastes and toxins.

-Helps eliminate uric acid so it is good for those who have arthritis.

-Excellent source of potassium, vitamin c and folic acid.

-When placed on burns (sunburns too), itchy skin, swollen and tired eyes it can relieve these symptoms as well as dark circles.

-Relieves heartburn and soothes stomach acid or for those suffering from gastritis or ulcers.

-Improves blood circulation and helps relax nerves and muscles.

-Cucumber juice can be used as a soothing skin lotion.

-Skin of cucumbers are rich in fiber, potassium and magnesium.

So besides being delicious, cucumbers offer up a host of wonderful health benefits! Make sure when buying cucumbers that they are dark green as this is an indication it is fresh. I also try to go organic on cucumbers since many cucumbers found in grocery stores are waxed to protect them during shipping. Since the wax is better not to be ingested I go for the organic that are not waxed.

My Apologies For Being So, So , So Behind-AHHHHH!

2009-06-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

I am waaaaayyyyy behind and feel terrible about not commenting or dropping my entrecards lately. I have been swamped at work, with the kids, life, etc and need to catch up!!! I promise to get back on track and drop and comment back. Also am working on a great post about something new I am doing by my hard a#@, drill sergeant yet sweet personal trainer Christopher Warden who is determined to give me the healthiest body yet!!! Back with details soon and thank you all for stopping by, commenting and dropping:)

Quick And Healthy Way To Cut Calories And Be Your Best Skinny Minny

2009-06-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

I am so, so, so behind and am trying to get back in the swing of things but did want to share one of my favorite mini diet tips with you. I know I have been bad, bad, bad on the eating scale this week so am trying to focus on my nutrition and hopefully incorporating this tip into your lifestyle might just help.

Cook With Veggies Instead of High Calorie Meats- How about mushrooms instead of meat? Now you are probably saying that I am trying to slip this in since I am a vegetarian (and very sneaky) but no, this really cuts back on the calories. When researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore gave people lunches made with mushrooms or the same meals made with meat, the mushroom eating consumers ate 42 percent fewer calories than those eating the beefier dishes. Fungi have fewer calories ounce for ounce than meat but are equally filling. I love to cook portabella mushrooms and eat them as my main course, throw some broccoli, carrots, onions, peppers in casseroles instead of meat or make a veggie stir fry. It really is delicious and actually very good for you too!!! Why not swap out your meat for a little veggie love!

Hope This Gets You Moving In The A.M. - Healthy Morning Habits For Optimal Health!

2009-06-08T20:54:00.000-07:00

I am not a morning person in the least but maybe with a little motivation like the tips below I can make it a bit more tolerable. Do these things to get your maximum health benefits in the morning and you may just feel better all day long!!

The Early Bird Gets The Worm

Say hello to sweet sunshine-Exposure to natural light in the morning signals your body to cut off production of melatonin, a hormone that makes you sleepy. Light is also a natural antidepressant, according to several studies and increases your body’s production of vitamin D (which can help prevent cancer and heart disease).

Eat Breakfast-Try to eat breakfast within 15 to 30 minutes of waking and no later than 8 a.m. as this will help you to keep from gaining weight. By skipping breakfast your body thinks it is in starvation mode and you will eat more food later on. A Harvard Medical School study indicated that people who ate a morning meal were one third less likely to be obese than those who didn’t. I would recommend that you go for high protein and fruits and vegetables that are low in starch and sugar (ex-strawberries, raspberries, cantaloupe, plain yogurt, eggs ,mushrooms, carrots). I love to have almonds with raspberries on top of plain yogurt each day-really gets me moving in the morning.

Weigh Yourself-A study from Brown University and the University of North Carolina showed that 61 percent of of people who did so maintained their weight within five pounds over time (compared with 32 percent that weighed in less often) mainly because it helped them catch their weight gain early. It is best to weigh yourself first thing in the morning nude, before breakfast for your most accurate reading. Weight gain can fluctuate within three lbs throughout the day!

Hit the alarm button for an extra 20 minutes of sleep-Our bodies naturally have more of the stress hormone cortisone in the morning so our bodies will get up and get moving, but postponing your wake-up time can lower those levels enough to take the edge off. According to a study at London’s University of Westminster, earlier risers (who woke up as early as 5:22 a.m.) had higher cortisol levels during the first 45 minutes of their day tended to be angrier at night than late risers who got up as late as 10:30 a.m.). This was regardless of how much total sleep they got. I am not a morning person at all so this must be another reason why. Getting out of bed in the morning is like pulling teeth for me-just awful!!!!!

Cranberry Juice After Sex, Aspirin and Allergy Medicine In The Evening! Get In Your Night Groove!

2009-06-05T10:12:00.000-07:00

Ooooohhhh here are some night moves to keep you healthy and happy. This another excerpt from the article I read about how you can maximize health benefits from doing certain things at specific times of the day. I really had no idea about these but now that I do I intend to try to follow these and maybe you might benefit too.

Drink you cranberry so your bladder will be merry-Most of us have heard that cranberry juice can help prevent urinary-tract infections. If you drink a glass at night the juice will stay in your bladder until morning, fighting bacteria. This is also beneficial if you and your partner are in a love mood and want to get intimate as it can keep bacteria that’s been pushed up the urethra during intercourse from sticking to bladder walls (kind of takes the romance out of sex thinking of it this way but hey, whatever works).

Got Allergies? Take your allergy medicine-Allergy symptoms and pollen count are highest first thing in the morning so take your long-acting antihistamines at night to avoid feeling sneezy upon wakening.

No More Sir (or Lady) Stinks a-lot!-Take a shower before bed or wash your underarms and/or feet if they have been smelly and making others run for the hills). Dry off and apply the antiperspirant of your choice. At night your body’s temperature naturally lowers and you are less likely to sweat which gives the antiperspirant a chance to fully absorb and allows its active ingredients to work. In the morning you should be fully protected when you are ready to shower. Yahoo-no more sweaty, smelly days!

Got high blood pressure? Take your aspirin at night-According to a recent study at the University of Vigo in Spain, people with prehypertension (blood pressure that’s between normal and high) who took aspirin at 11 p.m. had lower blood pressure readings after three months than those with the same symptoms who took aspirin at 8 a.m. or who had made dietary changes. Researchers believe aspirin works by slowing the nighttime production of hormones and other substances that lead to clotting. If this is something that concerns you I would definitely ask your doctor about it.

Prepare to sleep-Make sure you do not exercise three hours before bedtime to give your body temperature a chance to cool down, don’t eat 2-4 hours before bedtime, since it takes your stomach that long to empty solid foods (this helps with acid reflux as well). Also, keep your cell phone, alarm clock with the neon numbers and night lights all out as your brain’s pineal gland (never heard that word before) needs darkness to make melatonin, the hormone that tells your body it is time to sleep. The pineal gland gets confused if it senses light and you will not sleep as well. Melatonin has also been linked to improved immunity and lower risk of cancer. Alright, stop confusing your poor Pineal gland and you will sleep much better.

I hope you have your healthy night moves together now!

Redbook May 2009

You’ll Be Over The Moon If You Do These Healthy Things In The Afternoon

2009-06-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

I have always been a big believer that life is all about timing so when I saw this article about how some of the things involving our health are all about timing I was intrigued (okay it obviously does not take much to intrigue me I guess). Today I will write about some health things that are optimized by doing them in the afternoon and then I will follow with a couple more posts about evening and morning as well. I am shaking things up and being non-conventional (what’s new) by starting with afternoon instead of morning (such the rebelJ).

Nap- By 2 p.m., your body temperature starts to dip, just as it does before bedtime. Instead of fighting the urge to stay awake why not indulge in a quick power nap? An Australian study compared naps lasting 5, 10, 20, and 30 minutes and found that 10 minutes left participants feeling the most refreshed, rested and alert. Just make sure not to go too long or you will get that nasty sleep inertia which leaves you groggy. I wish that I could nap but to be honest I have never been a napper (much to my poor mother’s chagrin-she said I NEVER napped). We would all probably feel a little better by putting in a short power nap though.

Move it or lose it-Late afternoon to early evening (5-6 pm) may just be the best time to exercise as that is when your body is literally at its hottest. Your body temperature reaches its daily peak (2-3 degrees warmer than in the morning), giving you maximum muscle strength, flexibility, agility and stamina. Your lungs are using oxygen more efficiently at this time as well.

Instead of a big lunch have two mini meals-This is one area that I can certainly say I agree with as I rarely sit down and have a large meal but instead opting for several small meals. Doing this keeps your blood sugar steady and your metabolism moving. It is recommended that you have the first meal about 3 hours after breakfast and the second during the afternoon slump (around 2 and 3 p.m.).

Ref-Redbook May 2009

MMMMM-What Do These Delicious Foods Have In Common? The Boost Your Immunity!

2009-05-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

AS you read this I am not in Kansas City but rather out of town on a mystery trip!! Hmmmmm…..I wonder where I could have gone? Such a mystery (lol)-really just off with some old girlfriends having a couple days to reminisce about the good ol’ days and have fun in the present. While I am off jaunting through the country I thought I would leave you with some great foods to help you boost your immunity. I found this from the celebrity nutritionist Christine Avanti on Yahoo and thought how easy these would be to incorporate into your diet if they are already not in your diet. I

Immune strength is highly related to food intake you know so here are a few of the best foods to help protect ourselves from illness.

Green Tea-Where do I begin? I love green tea and can never seem to have enough of it-if I were a drink I would want to be green tea (okay maybe a diet Pepsi but that is not healthy so therefore exempt, right?). Green tea is a rich source of a type of antioxidant known as a catechin. The catechin in green tea called Epigallo Catechin Gallate (EGCG) has been shown to increase a specific type of immune cell. EGCG in green tea has been shown to slow the spread of flu virus in multiple studies. Another healthy component of green tea is L-theanine, which is thought to improve immune response, according to a study done at Harvard.

Carrots-Who doesn’t love to crunch on delicious carrots? Carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene which is a powerful immune booster that actually strengthens defenses against both bacterial and viral infections. Studies show that the more beta-carotene consumed, the greater the increase in protective immune cells, including those natural killer cells. Mangoes, papaya, oranges, melons and green leafy vegetables are also great sources of beta-carotene.

MMMMMMM-Mushrooms-White button mushrooms, which represent 90% of the mushrooms consumed in the U.S., enhances natural killer cells therefore promoting immunity. I love mushrooms sautéed as well as in a delicious salad-load up!

Blackberries, Blueberries, Pom Juice-Some of the best superfoods out there chocked full of immune-boosting antioxidants. Antioxidants protect and repair cells damaged by free radicals, making you better able to ward off infections and flu. Make sure the Pomegranate juice you choose is not full of juice fillers and sugar and to eat your berries raw and fresh rather than cooked.

Yogurt-When consumed, probiotics, the good live bacteria in yogurt and other bacteria fortified products, go to the digestive tract-the place where 70%-80% of our immune cells reside. When germs enter through the mouth they will be warded off when the good and healthful bacteria are encountered. On this note I would also like to say a plain organic yogurt (not loaded with sugar) topped with delicious berries is one of my favorite and highly recommended treats.

See how easy this is!! Hopefully you will have less flu’s and colds after incorporating these delicious and nutritious foods!!!

Bon Voyage!

Allergies, Allergies Go Away! Here Are Some Natural Remedies To Help Today!

2009-05-27T10:06:00.000-07:00

Sniff, sneeze, sniffle-yes, I am talking about those allergies that make your life miserable. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination survey,more than 20% of the U.S. population suffers from some form of allergy (I personally get the hideous teary, puffy eye look when mine hit). Seasonal allergy symptoms are a natural reaction , the result of an overreaction by the immune system.

If you are looking for relief from seasonal allergies, natural remedies are a great place to start. They are generally less harsh on the system than conventional drugs and they do more than just cover up your symptoms. Nutritional strategies, Herbs and homeopathic remedies are all wonderful ways to get your allergies on the right track..

NUTRITIONAL STRATEGIES **Research shows that there is a DEFINITE LINK BETWEEN ALLERGIES AND DIET. When we become deficient in certain nutrients and binge on highly processed ingredients and sugar our allergy symptoms can worsen. Frequent use of antibiotics can also have a negative effect on allergies.

**PROBIOTICS-Like L. acidophilus and Bifidobacterium can help with some symptoms. Probiotic supplements provide billions of live organisms per capsule and they are beneficial forms of bacteria that support healthy immune function. They can also be found in yogurt, fermented foods and some probiotic fortified foods. I take a whole food supplement that has prebiotics and probiotics so I don't have to worry about finding it anywhere else.

**VITAMIN C-regulates the release of histamine. Can be found in citrus fruits, peppers, watermelon and dark leafy greens.

**VITAMIN E-is associated with lessening the risk of hay fever. Wheat germ, whole grains, nuts, seeds,eggs and dark leafy vegetables are a few sources.

**GRAPE SEED EXTRACT-rich in antioxidants, may support a healthy inflammation response in the body

**OMEGA-3 ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS-important for many functions in the body, including a healthy inflammation response. Fish, flaxseed, walnuts and dark leafy greens. I personally take flaxseed oil. Not the best tasting but you do what you gotta do. HERBS THAT MAY HELP YOUR ALLERGIES

**BUTTERBUR-has been shown to support healthy membranes, and some studies have shown it to be helpful in decreasing the body's production of histamines and leukotrienes. Research indicates it works as well as many common conventional choices.

**EYEBRIGHT-Used for eye infections and respiratory conditions. Helps soothe flamed membranes.

**STINGING NETTLE-Considered to be one of the best herbs to calm allergy symptoms )works great when paired with eyebright)

**ECHINACEA, GARLIC, CHAMOMILE, YARROW, AND LICORICE ROOT-These all support the respiratory and immune systems , and help sinus function. HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES Homeopathic medicines come in many forms, including nasal and throat sprays,eyedrops and tablets that dissolve. For a variety of allergy symptoms, homeopathic formulas with a combination of ingredients often work best. They are clinically tested and work by exposing the body to a highly diluted dose of an allergen which helps the immune system.

**NASAL CONGESTION-Recommended homeopathic remedy is Sabadilla.

**WATERY EYES, SNEEZING, RUNNY NOSE- Recommended homeopathic remedy is Galphimia glauca.

**SINUS CONGESTION AND PRESSURE, DRYNESS-Recommended homeopathic remedy is Kali bichromium.

**RUNNY NOSE, SNEEZING AND SORE THROAT-Recommended homeopathic remedy is Sabadilla.

**VARIETY OF EYE SYMPTOMS-Recommended homeopathic remedy is Euphrasia offinalis

**LARGE VARIETY OF SYMPTOMS-Recommended homeopathic remedy is Histaminum hydrochloricum.

reference Whole Foods market March/April 2008

Now, to be honest with you (keep in mind I am a wanna be health nut and not a full fledged health nut-YET) I would have thought that I would have had no idea what to do or where to get any of these remedies because the names are so foreign to me. However, I went to my local health market and it was not difficult at all to find these items. If I can do it with two wild children running around screaming and me barely able to focus all you wanna be health nuts can too. As for you full fledged health nuts I am sure you probably have got it down. I really embrace trying natural remedies as they are easier on your system and have less side effects.

P.S. To all my wonderful entrecard droppers, readers and commentors just want to let you know that I may be scarce the next few days so if I am not responding and dropping just know that I will make up for it as soon as I can. Have I mentioned how great it is to have you wonderful blog friends and readers!!!!

A Follow Up To Why Your Blog in Internet Explorer May Say Operation Aborted-This May Fall Under Mental Health As It Drove Me Crazy:)

2009-05-22T12:11:00.001-07:00

Thank all of you for your comments during my frazzled moments of Interntet Explorer Blog drama. This is a quick follow up post to let you know how this was fixed. If you are having problems with getting into your blog via Internet Explorer as many of you mentioned then I would check your followers/friends that you have on your sidebar. This is how mine was fixed by simply removing that html from my site. My blog friend Beaded Tail was having the same problem and she resolved hers the same way.

I hope this helps anyone needing it as I almost had 3 yes 3 diet pepsi's in a row and considered a little vodka (no vodka however) before it was all said and done. So I guess this could be a solution to helping your mental health before you do as I did and ran around all ablaze with blog drama for hours and acted like the world was ending. More health posts to come!!!

BTW-Happy Memorial Day and be safe and healthy!!

Heidi

No, No, Noooooooo! Healthnutwannabeemom.blogspot.com Has Been Taken Hostage-HELP!

2009-05-21T06:09:00.000-07:00

We all know that I am more than confused by anything technological in this world. I like how things work but when something goes amiss I am in BIG trouble. I received a few emails from people trying to comment saying they were getting the below message and could not view my site on internet explorer (works fine on firefox). I cannot view my site either and truth be told it is driving me crazy.

I decided that I was going to attempt to fix this on my own (come on Heidi!) well I googled all kinds of suggestions and many were good and logical (logical to aliens) except they may have been written in some lost languages ancient text for all the sense they made to me. Frustrated I ran and got a diet pepsi and blackberries-bad, bad, bad on the diet pepsi but good on the blackberries to balance out the bad diet pepsi (I doubt this is how it works but I could have grabbed a diet pepsi and chocolate bar instead so I get some points-remember I am still a wannabee health nut). The diet pepsi consoled me and I decided to write this post to let everyone know that I am in blog problem He@#$&*@#lllll!!! My hat goes off to all you technical geniuses because I am about to lie on the floor and kick, scream and cry because as we all know that is how to get things fixed-not.

Anyway, I will get this fixed and soon up and running. Can you even read this? Had not thought of that.

Best to you all!!!

THANK YOU JOSH FOR FIXING THIS! IT IS NOW FIXED!!!
Heidi

Hurry, Hurry For The Curry! Turmeric The Skinny Spice! Fight Fat The Delicous Way!!!! MMMMMM

2009-05-20T06:11:00.000-07:00

In my lifelong quest to find foods that are healthy and slimming I have just encountered the most wonderful news! If you love Indian food as I do you will be even happier because according to a study from Tufts University in Boston turmeric (aka the skinny spice and often known in curry meals especially Indian foods) contains a plant-based chemical called curcumin which is easily absorbed by the body and appears to fight fat.

The researchers findings which are in the Journal of Nutrition, also explains how curcumin suppresses the growth of fat tissue in mice and human cell cultures ( I am not for the testing of curry on mice or animal testing-sorry had to throw my opinion in there). Apparently the turmeric is effective when added to a high-fat meal, suggesting it could help fight obesity. It appears the curcumin prevents the formation of new blood vessels which in turn help expand fatty tissue which is the cause of weight gain. Now this is a great scientific explanation but the truth is that (I never did well in science-sigh) to me if it tastes good, is good for you and helps fight weight gain then wooohoooooo! Bring on the curry!

It seems that the laboratory tests were done on mice who were fed high fat diets for 12 weeks (again I completely disagree with animal testing even if it is just curry). One group had 500mg of curcumin added to each meal and the other group did not. After 12 weeks, the mice which were fed curcumin weighed less than those which did not eat it. The researchers found the curcumin fed mice were not growing as many new blood vessels as the others and had lower blood cholesterol.

The conclusion of the study data was that curcumin appears to suppress angiogenic activity in the fat tissue of mice fed high fat diets. For you science lovers you probably love the detailed scientific explanation but for you food and non scientific laymen (like me) you love that you can eat curry, curry, curry and fight fat. Now I just need to go and find some great recipes and spice them up with turmeric. I bet turmeric would be good in soups, rices, tofu, sprinkled on some nuts, etc. The options are endless so curry it up! Hurry for some curry!

Ref-http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1184632/How-curry-STOP-putting-weight.html

Sugar For Those Sweet Memories-Come on over sugar!

2009-05-16T19:37:00.000-07:00

Hey sugar, sugar.......

As I have gotten older I have noticed that sometimes I tend to be more forgetful than I have been in the past. I have always attributed it to a combination of things such as being busy, age and just my general personality. Now there is some good news as one of my favorite things in the world-sugar- has been shown in recent studies to improve memory in elderly people . Now as much as I love sugar I also know that it must be eaten in moderation or can wreak havoc on our bodies so as good as this is just remember not to go out and eat and eat lots of sugary cakes and candies.

According to my book Nature’s Prescriptions, a recent study showed the effects of sugar on elderly people’s memory. The test was done early in the morning before anyone had eaten breakfast. One group drank a glass of lemonade and the other group drank a glass of lemonade with saccharin. Researchers found that the group who had drank the sugary drink performed better on memory tests a short time later.

In a related study, people who ate sugar just after reading something remembered it better a day later than those taking saccharin. Researchers aren’t sure how sugar works in the the brain to enhance memory but just know that it does. I cannot stress the importance of eating sugar in moderation as sugar is a big culprit in raising insulin levels which then tells our body to store fat. Don’t forget that sugar can be found in even the most unsuspecting of places like ketchup, spaghetti sauce, bread and even noodles amongst others. Reading labels and watching how much and where you get your sugar from can keep you healthy and bringing back those sweet memories!!

Gourmet Superfoods That Kick Those Regular Superfoods Booty!!!!

2009-05-12T14:47:00.000-07:00

As more and more evidence emerges that what we eat is one of the most important things we do to ourselves to determine everything from aging to disease prevention, below are some superfoods that you may not be getting enough of but you wish you were.

French Lentils- Hmmmmm-never knew there was such a thing however these are high in fiber (one third your U.S. RDA in a single half-cup serving). Lentils are a wonderful way to prevent diabetes, regulate blood sugar and are a great meat substitute (wonderful if you are a vegetarian like me). French lentils (green colored) are more delicate and peppery than the usual supermarket.

Figs-According to one report, a single serving of figs contains more polyphenols (recently linked to longevity) than tea or red wine. The are also high in iron which in turn helps you to stave off anemia and fatigue. When I was younger one of my best friend’s dad had a fig farm and I ate them all the time and loved them. I really recommend these

Walnuts-Love walnuts, love, love, love walnuts and hope you do to because a single ounce contains more than the U.S. recommended daily amount of omega-3’s. Most nuts are also great sources of cardio-protective monounsaturated fats and hypertension-fighting L-arginine. A study published in the British Medical Journal linked eating them regularly to a 35 percent reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

Gooseberries-Tart tasting but high in cancer-fighting vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium and iron. They kick the delicious and infamous blueberries booty by containing 50 percent more anti-oxidants.

Avocado-High in fiber they contain 11 to 17 grams in just one fruit. A 2005 study in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry reported that avocados contain enough lutein to stop cancer growth in a lab experiment. Lutein also contributes to eye health.

Guava-Has to be one of my all time favorites and is totally edible from skin to seeds if ripe. Sometimes known as the apple of the tropics is chocked full of antioxidants and potassium, which helps keep blood pressure in check.

Greek Yogurt-Maybe I am uncultured but I have never heard of this but will definitely be looking into it. This strained creamy Greek yogurt has a significantly higher amount of protein than your average yogurt, along with high levels of calcium. A study in the International Journal of Obesity found that dieters eating three servings of fat-free yogurt a day lost 22 percent more weight and 61 percent more body fat than other dieters.

Cremini Mushrooms-These are known for their rich flavor and a 2006 German study found that Cremini mushrooms have several microbial properties that could protect your body from disease and infection.

Sunchokes-Taste like artichokes but are more closely related to potatoes. They do not have as much blood sugar boosting starch and and are loaded with vitamins A and B, potassium, iron, calcium and magnesium.

Granted these are not your typical foods that you will easily find at the supermarket but check the gourmet food sections, specialty shops and amazon.com gourmet food area. They are healthy and might add a fun variety to your normal eating routine. MMMMMMMM! Enjoy!

ref more.com

Best News! Caffeine Prevents Skin Cancer!! Don't Go Crazy With The Coffee Though

2009-05-09T08:14:00.000-07:00

I have always considered caffeine to be one of my weaknesses. First thing in the morning I grab a cup of hot green tea and then another and another and another until I feel like I can finally get moving. I keep telling myself that I should buy the decaffeinated kind but honestly I love how it perks me up and now I have even more reason to not feel so guilty about my love of caffeine. I recently stumbled across this article here about how caffeine may prevent skin cancer and found this really interesting. Chocolate has caffeine, right? I must be in heaven!

"Caffeine is starting to get attention because it may prevent skin cancer as discussed in the February issue of the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Consumption of caffeine has been shown to be associated with lower incidences of nonmelanoma skin cancers in several epidemiological studies (Jacobsen et al., 1986; Hakim et al., 2000; Abel et al., 2007; Rees et al., 2007).

One study of over 93,000 women showed that drinking coffee decreased their risk of skin cancer. Other research suggests that both oral and topical caffeine may offer powerful anticarcinogenic benefits."

I must say that as always moderation is the key here so while caffeine does have its benefits everything has to be balanced.

Happy Mothers Day To All The Mothers, and Grandmothers !

Want To Kick The Smoking Habit? These Foods Can Help Make Or Break Ya!

2009-05-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

Today, I was taking a bit of time as usual to become more informed on my health and wellness and came across this article about foods that help you quit smoking. I have personally never smoked as I had an embarrassing introduction to cigarettes in tenth grade at the local Pizza Hut in front of a guy I liked and that was it for me. Spitting water on the object of your affection while coughing to death from the cigarette smoke at the same time is enough to turn one off (both of us apparently). Never again.

If you have tried patches or anti-smoking medications, but still can’t stop smoking, maybe it is time to experiment with specific foods to help quit smoking. Yes, there are foods proven to help when you’re trying to stop smoking.

However, there are also foods like coffee, alcohol and meat that make cigarettes taste better. So you should also avoid these foods because they can serve as a trigger to smoke again once you quit.

Foods that make cigarettes taste worse include dairy products, water, juice, fruits, and vegetables. The good thing is that these foods are all considered healthy and low in calories. You should also include exercise as it can help smokers ward off cravings for cigarettes.

Shrink Your Stomach The Natural Way-Say What???

2009-04-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

Have you ever noticed that when you go on vacation and let loose (which for me means to eat, eat, and eat more than I ever would at home) and you are consuming large portions of food that when you get back home you still seem to eat more and it takes quite a bit to fill you up and make you feel satisfied (Wow that was a long run on sentence if there ever was one)? Recently when I was on vacation in Costa Rica I could not stop eating and I loved it (my friend even commented that she had never seen me eat so much in her life!) but when I returned home to try to settle back into my normal routine I still wanted to eat lots and lots in order to feel full. I knew that I had to get my stomach and eating habits back to a happy medium.

I found the trick to shrinking your stomach hence helping your weight loss and maintenance efforts in my new favorite book called Nature's Prescriptions. I like this idea because it is free, not too tough and really does work (I do gripe and groan for the first couple days but then it kicks in and you will be feeling much better). The key (drum roll please) is to stick to a regular meal plan-typically one that focuses on eating smaller meals more frequently.

Just remember that because you eat more meals doesn't mean you get more calories. You are simply dividing them more evenly throughout the day so you are less likely to get hungry and overeat. You want to avoid large meals and stuffing yourself because you will undo all your good work and increase your stomach size again. Generally, this takes me a couple days to get back in the habit of eating several small meals. I am a big supporter of the several small meals a day as it keeps your stomach at a good size and your metabolism going and revved up throughout the day.