Striving4Zen

Omega-3s (100g)	(g)		Omega-6s (100g)	(g)
Walnuts	5.5		Walnuts	28
Hazelnuts	trace		Hazelnuts	4
Cashews	trace		Cashews	8
Almonds	trace		Almonds	10
Brazils	trace		Brazils	23

Omega-3s (100g)	(g)		Omega-6s (100g)	(g)
Flax / Linseeds	15-25		Flax / Linseeds	6
Pumpkin seeds	7-10		Pumpkin seeds	20
Sunflower seeds	trace		Sunflower seeds	30
Sesame seeds	trace		Sesame seeds	25
Pine nuts	1		Pine nuts	25

Omega-3s (100g)	(g)		Omega-6s (100g)	(g)
Flax / Linseed oil	58		Safflower oil	74
Flax / Linseeds	15-30		Grapeseed oil	68
Walnut oil	11.5		Sunflower oil	63
Canola / Rapeseed oil	7		Walnut oil	58
Soybean oil	7		Soybean oil	51
Wheatgerm oil	5		Corn oil	50

Source

Labels: healthy fats, Nuts, oils, Omega-3s, omega-6, seeds

The term blood building food is commonly used in alternative medicine, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Blood building foods are foods that contain high quantities of specific nutrients thought to encourage the production of new blood cells in the body. The most important ingredient in a blood building food is iron, but vitamin B12 and folic acid are also key.

Although many choose simply to strengthen the blood by taking iron pills or liquid iron supplements, eating a diet high in blood building foods can be equally effective. Some blood building foods are less appetizing than others, and though they are foods, they are generally taken as a supplement rather then simply eaten as a meal. These include animal liver, brewer’s yeast, bone marrow soup, and black strap molasses. Colostrum, the milk produced in mammals during the late stages of pregnancy, is also considered a blood building food. Colostrum is high in antibodies and nutrients needed by newborn mammals to build blood after birth.

If these options seem unappetizing, there are a number of blood building foods which may have wider appeal to the palate. These include meats, particularly duck, goose, lamb, and oyster. Dark leafy greens, such as spinach and wheatgrass, are also particularly high in iron, and are considered a blood building food. Wheatgrass, and other food such as raisins, prunes, kidney beans, mushrooms, apricots, and soy food can be particularly effective in building blood, especially if one is following a vegetarian diet.

These iron-rich foods are particularly potent in blood building potential. Hypothetically speaking, however, any food that is high in nutrients is beneficial to the blood. Of course, if one wants to encourage the production of healthy new blood cells, it is also wise to stay away from foods that offer little nutritional value, or rob the body of nutrients. Food such as refined sugar, coffee, and alcohol are often thought to rob nutrients from the body, not to mention the taxing effect they can have on the liver.

Within the practice of TCM, herbs are also commonly recommended in a blood building regimen. Though they may not be food in and of themselves, herbs, spices and extracts taken to build blood are often derived from food, or other edible substances. These include ingredients such as licorice, ginger, red dates, citrus, cardamon, and alfalfa.

Blood building foods, due to their high concentration of iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid, are an effective way to relieve anemia, fatigue, paleness, coldness of the body, and amenorrhea.

Source

Labels: blood building foods, blood flow, eating healthy, healthy diet, Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Food with calcium.

Dairy products obviously contain calcium, but if you don’t eat dairy, try dark leafy greens, like kale or spinach. You can pretty much incorporate greens into every meal: spinach in a breakfast green monster, salad for lunch, and sauteed greens for dinner.

• Complex carbs.

Your brain is telling you to reach for that cookie, but your crampy belly will thank you if you have a piece of sprouted or whole grain bread with an indulgent topping, like honey and almond butter, or PB & dark chocolate chips, instead.

• Foods with magnesium.

Foods rich in magnesium, like beans, tofu, and nuts, are thought to reduce bloating in menstruating women. Shoot for at least 200mg per day.

• Foods rich in vitamin E.

A great source of vitamin E is avocado. You can whip up some guac or just slice one up and go to town!

• Foods full of vitamin B6.

This powerhouse of a vitamin aids in the metabolism of proteins and red blood cells, and has even been shown to relieve symptoms of depression. Potatoes and bananas are great sources of this vitamin. Snack on a banana and nuts to get your magnesium and B6 fix.

• Foods with iron.

Iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency among women. Make sure you’re getting enough by consuming lots of dark greens, beans, and nuts. Red meat and eggs also contain iron, but it’s a myth that they’re the only good sources of it.

• Foods containing vitamin C and zinc.

Red berries, kiwi, and bell peppers have plenty of C, as do broccoli, spinach, and tomatoes. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of zinc. Add them to oatmeal, cereal, or salads. Top a sweet potato with pumpkin seeds, wilted spinach, a small handful of nuts, and a sprinkle of goat cheese for a delicious meal that incorporates many of the items on this list.

• Water, water, water.

Getting dehydrated is the easiest way to feel horrible when you’re on your period.

• Avoid salt.

I’m sure you’ve heard this before, but not only can salt interfere with the absoption of certain minerals, it also causes more bloating at a time when that’s the last thing you want.

Source

Labels: calcium, cramps, healthy diet, period

World's Healthiest Foods ranked as quality sources of: omega 3 fatty acids
Food	Serving Size	Cals	Amount (g)	DV (%)	Nutrient Density	World's Healthiest Foods Rating
Flaxseeds	2 tbs	95.3	3.51	146.3	27.6	excellent
Cloves, dried, ground	2 tsp	14.2	0.20	8.3	10.6	very good
Walnuts	0.25 cup	163.5	2.27	94.6	10.4	excellent
Oregano, dried, ground	2 tsp	9.2	0.12	5.0	9.8	very good
Salmon, chinook, baked/broiled	4 oz-wt	261.9	2.09	87.1	6.0	excellent
Cauliflower, boiled	1 cup	28.5	0.21	8.8	5.5	very good
Mustard seeds	2 tsp	35.0	0.20	8.3	4.3	very good
Cabbage, shredded, boiled	1 cup	33.0	0.17	7.1	3.9	very good
Romaine lettuce	2 cup	15.7	0.08	3.3	3.8	good
Broccoli, steamed	1 cup	43.7	0.20	8.3	3.4	very good
Brussel sprouts, boiled	1 cup	60.8	0.26	10.8	3.2	good
Winter squash, baked, cubes	1 cup	80.0	0.34	14.2	3.2	good
Tofu, raw	4 oz-wt	86.2	0.36	15.0	3.1	good
Summer squash, cooked, slices	1 cup	36.0	0.15	6.3	3.1	good
Halibut, baked/broiled	4 oz-wt	158.8	0.62	25.8	2.9	good
Collard greens, boiled	1 cup	49.4	0.18	7.5	2.7	good
Spinach, boiled	1 cup	41.4	0.15	6.3	2.7	good
Kale, boiled	1 cup	36.4	0.13	5.4	2.7	good
Soybeans, cooked	1 cup	297.6	1.03	42.9	2.6	good
Shrimp, steamed/boiled	4 oz-wt	112.3	0.37	15.4	2.5	good
Turnip greens, cooked	1 cup	28.8	0.09	3.8	2.3	good
Cod, baked/broiled	4 oz-wt	119.1	0.32	13.3	2.0	good
Strawberries	1 cup	43.2	0.11	4.6	1.9	good
Green beans, boiled	1 cup	43.8	0.11	4.6	1.9	good
Snapper, baked/broiled	4 oz-wt	145.2	0.36	15.0	1.9	good
Scallops, baked/broiled	4 oz-wt	151.7	0.35	14.6	1.7	good
Tuna, yellowfin, baked/broiled	4 oz-wt	157.6	0.33	13.8	1.6	good
Raspberries	1 cup	60.3	0.12	5.0	1.5	good
Miso	1 oz	70.8	0.14	5.8	1.5	good

World's Healthiest Foods Rating	Rule
excellent	DV>=75%	OR	Density>=7.6	AND	DV>=10%
very good	DV>=50%	OR	Density>=3.4	AND	DV>=5%
good	DV>=25%	OR	Density>=1.5	AND	DV>=2.5%

Source

Labels: eating healthy, healthy food, Omega-3s, Omega-3s fish oil

Nutritional yeast is not the yeast you bake with, says Melina Jampolis, M.D., a health expert for CNN.

"Nutritional yeast is a type of yeast that has been specially cultured for optimal nutrition value and good taste," she says. "It is a very good source of complete protein (important for vegans and vegetarians), fiber, and B vitamins. It is definitely a healthy and tasty addition to a balanced diet. Lots of vegans use it in cooking, and I'm addicted to these kale chips that are baked with it as they taste like Parmesan crusted chips but are super healthy."

Where can you buy it? Most health food stores sell nutritional yeast, and you might even get lucky at your local grocery store. Just ask next time you're out shopping.

Source

Labels: b-vitamins, healthy diet, Kale, nutritional yeast, supplements, vegan, vegetarian, yeast

Mitochondria are the little factories in our cells that take the foods we eat and the oxygen we breathe and convert them into energy. That energy is called adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, and it is used to support every function in our body.

Each cell holds hundreds or thousands of mitochondria; they are found in greater amounts in active organs and tissues such as the muscles, heart, and brain. In fact, we have more than 100,000 trillion mitochondria in our bodies, and each one contains 17,000 little assembly lines for making ATP.

Why are these are these little energy factories so important to your health?

The answer is simple: Mitochondria are the place where metabolism happens.

When your mitochondria aren’t working properly, your metabolism runs less efficiently or can practically shut down.

Problems occur because these powerful energy producers are VERY sensitive to damage.

And when they are damaged, you suffer all the symptoms of low energy—fatigue, memory loss, pain, rapid aging, and more.

Read More....

Labels: aging, ATP, biology, energy, fatigue, mitochondria

GURU LITE is the best energy drink out there today!

GURU Energy Drink is an energy supplement scientifically designed to invigorate health conscious minds who need to perform. Made from all-natural and organic ingredients, GURU combines carefully chosen ingredients borrowed from ancient cultures around the world. Its active botanical complex is made from guarana, panax ginseng, ginkgo biloba and Echinacea. GURU delivers all the power of these four carefully selected herbal extracts, using them at their most effective levels. Its rigorous scientific approach to formula development has resulted in a perfect synergy of these proven elements. Moreover, all botanicals included in GURU are standardized, which guarantees the potency of the botanicals with scientific accuracy. GURU is the healthy energy drink that gives you the mental and physical boost you need: in the afternoon, at work, while studying, driving, before sports, or during times of stress or fatigue.

Source

Labels: beverages, cool new product, energy drinks, GURU, GURU Lite, healthy beverage

Yale researchers may have solved a fundamental medical mystery: how bisphenol A (BPA), a ubiquitous plastics component, changes genetic chemistry and impairs fertility.

The Yale team's findings, previewed earlier this month to the Endocrine Society, a 14,000-member scientific and medical professional organization devoted to hormone system research and treatment, have intensified scientists' concern that exposure BPA, a synthetic estrogen that disrupts the endocrine system, may have grave consequences for human reproduction.

In an interview, study co-author Hugh S. Taylor, M.D., professor and chief of the reproductive endocrinology section at Yale University School of Medicine, said his team injected pregnant mice with BPA for just one week. After those mice, and a control group, gave birth, the scientists found that the genetic chemistry of female offspring exposed to BPA in the womb had been irrevocably altered.

Read Full Story.

Labels: BPA, endocrine system, hormones, infertility, synthetic growth hormone, toxic

That olive oil sitting on your shelf may lose up to 40% of its health benefits if it’s been there for six months, according to a study presented in the March Journal of Food Science, published by the Institute of Food Technologists.

The study analyzed several varieties of extra-virgin olive oil produced from groves in the Italian countryside at production and during storage. After three months of storage, the antioxidant activity in the oils remained unchanged. However, antioxidants decreased by about 40% for almost all of the oils after six months.

“The protective role of virgin olive oil is the result of its specific composition including phenolic compounds known to act as antioxidants,” says lead researcher Antonella Baiano of the University of Foggia in Italy. The health benefits of extra-virgin olive oil may include preventing conditions related to coronary disease, stroke and certain types of cancers.

Researchers recommend consumers store extra virgin olive oil in small glass bottles (one liter maximum because the oxygen contained in the headspace determines its oxidation), in a dark location, at a temperature lower than 68-77°F (20-25°C).

Source

Labels: antioxidants, cooking oil, extra-virgin olive oil, healthy diet, Mediterranean Diet, study, virgin olive oil

Before you reach into your medicine cabinet to take care of a headache, stuffy nose, or upset stomach, you might want to consider treating your everyday ailments with natural remedies.

They take a little longer to work than their conventional counterparts, but may prove more effective, according to Body + Soul magazine Senior Editor Terri Trespicio.

She looked into Mother Nature's medicine cabinet on "The Early Show Saturday Edition," noting the surprising healing power of herbal remedies. They could be just what the doctor ordered.

PAIN RELIEF

Mild headaches: Tiger balm. Chinese ointment contains menthol and can ease pain when rubbed into neck or temples.

Arthritis pain: Turmeric, fish oil. All show promise in helping ease pain. Talk to your healthcare professional for dosage.

COLD CURES

Elderberry syrup: Research suggests it can fight the flu and may ease symptoms of cold.

Garlic: What you eat matters! Get plenty of raw or lightly cooked garlic, which contains antiviral compounds. Add thyme to soups and salad dressing.

COUGH

Eucalyptus oil in a pot of boiling water can help loosen phlegm. Just tent a towel over your head and breathe deeply.

Licorice root and marshmallow root can also help calm a cough - look for teas containing these herbs and sip throughout the day. For example, a tea called Organic Throat Coat combines several herbs.

CONSTIPATION

High fiber foods: Eat plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains and beans. Sprinkle some ground flaxseed on cereal or in smoothies. Also, drink plenty of room-temperature water.

Triphala: Herbal supplement from the Ayurvedic tradition that can get things moving. Take supplement as noted on bottle.

ALLERGY

Quercetin: This flavonoid compound, found in apples and onions, can also help fight allergy symptoms. It's preventive, though, so allow 6-8 weeks to build it up in your system. Typical dose: 400 mg twice a day between meals.

Stinging nettle: In tincture, teas or freeze-dried capsules. Consume half teaspoon of tincture three times a day, a month before allergy season. Drink 2-3 cups of nettle tea, or follow directions on capsule bottle.

Source

Labels: alternative treatments, arthritis, garlic, herbs, holistic healing, Holistic Health, natural therapy, nettles, quercetin, tiger balm

Did you know that the wealth of vitamin K (122% daily value) found in green beans plays an important role in bone health?

Although calcium and vitamin D are often the nutrients highlighted in discussions on bone and prevention of bone-related disease, current research is increasingly revealing the importance of vitamin K. Although much of the research has focused on the K2 form of the vitamin, the K1 form found in greens beans has also been associated with better bone mineral density and decreased risk of bone-related diseases.

So, green beans can now join in with a variety of vegetables (including kale, spinach, collard greens and mustard greens) which are excellent sources of vitamin K1 and provide welcomed support for our bones. But the benefits of green beans do not stop here. They're also a rich source of other vitamins and minerals, many of which can act as powerful antioxidants that help combat the free radical activity associated with increased risk of both cancer and heart disease.

Read More....

Labels: bones, eating healthy, green beans, green leafy vegetables, Green veggies, healthy diet, Kale, spinach, strong bones, Vitamin K

At seven cents per pound, hexane is currently the dominant extraction solvent for soy products. Whether you're eating Boca burgers, firm tofu, partially hydrogenated soybean oil, granola crumbs for texture, or Silk soy milk, hexane likely played a role in the extraction process. Hexane was formerly used as a cleaning agent for removing grease in the printing industry as well as a solvent for rubber cement, but now it's showing up in many so-called "natural" and even "made with organic" soy foods.

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Labels: Boca burgers, hexane, processed foods, soy milk, soybeans, toxic, toxins

Not only is buckwheat not a type of wheat, it is not even technically a "grain" although in many places (including The World's Healthiest Foods book) it is referred to as a grain since it is enjoyed in a similar fashion to true grains. Buckwheat is actually a fruit seed that comes from a plant that is also called beech wheat, as well as "silverhull" and "tartary," and whose genus/species name in Latin is Fagopyrum esculentum. Buckwheat belongs to the Polygonaceae family of plants. Two other well-known members of this family are rhubarb and sorrel. Buckwheat does not contain gluten like wheat does and therefore you can truly count on it to be "wheat-free" in every respect!

Buckwheat makes a great side dish as well as the base for a cold grain salad. Combined with fresh and/dried fruit, nuts, and soymilk, it can also make an energizing breakfast.

Read more about Buckwheat

Labels: buckwheat, gluten-free, grains, healthy diet, healthy food

The following is a list of the common symptoms of chronic toxicity. If you suffer from any of the following, detoxifying might be critical for you to get healthy and feel good again:

• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Joint pain
• Sinus congestion
• Postnasal drip
• Excessive sinus problems
• Headaches
• Bloating
• Gas
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Foul-smelling stools
• Heartburn
• Sleep problems
• Food cravings
• Water retention
• Rashes
• Skin problems
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Canker sores
• Acne
• Bad breath
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Other menstrual disorders
• Puffy, dark circles under the eyes
• Difficulty concentrating
• Trouble losing weight

Labels: detox, detoxify, holistic healing, Holistic Health, illness, wellness

You've just finished a tough workout. You're hot and sweaty so you reach for ... celery?

It's long been known that water-rich fruits and vegetables can contribute to your hydration needs. But recent research shows that beyond contributing to hydration, some fruits and vegetables may hydrate your body twice as effectively as a glass of water.

Water is cool, refreshing and calorie-free, but certain types of produce have a leg up on H2O. Why? Because they provide nutrients like mineral salts, amino acids and vitamins as well as hydration.

When exercising, your body can lose electrolytes through sweat. Replenishing lost electrolytes is the whole premise behind sports drinks. But certain fresh fruits and veggies can replenish your body, too -- without all the artificial colors and flavors.

Some top picks for hydrating foods:

• Watermelon. Rich in vitamin C, beta carotene and lycopene, the appropriately named watermelon is about 92 percent water.
• Cucumber. Cucumbers deliver a high water content as well as calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium.
• Celery. Crunchy celery is actually 96 percent water. It also provides sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron and zinc.

But don't ditch your water bottle just yet. It's great to incorporate healthful hydrating foods into your diet -- especially during the warmer months. But a good, old-fashioned glass of water has its place, too. And, let's face it, while a stalk of celery might be more effective for hydration, it just doesn't taste as refreshing as an icy cold glass of water.

Source

Labels: celery, cucumber, exercise, fruits and veggies, hydration, water, watermelon

Omega-3s fall into the category of healthy fats because they have so many benefits. These essential fatty acids reduce inflammation, stabilize your mood, lower your cholesterol, and have been found to reduce your risk of coronary heart disease. The RDI of omega-3s is 1.1 grams per day. It's easy to get your fill since omega-3s come from a variety of sources including fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, soybeans, and omega-enhanced foods.

Are you getting enough?

Food	Omega-3s (g)
3 oz. salmon	1.1
3 oz. halibut	.6
3 oz. swordfish	.97
3 oz. canned tuna	.17
1 tbsp. flaxseeds	1.8
1/8 cup walnuts	1.1
1 cup strawberries	.1
1 cup raspberries	.1
1/2 cup tofu	.23
1/2 edamame (soybeans)	2.8
1/2 cup steamed broccoli	.1
1 omega-3 enriched egg	.23

Thanks Fit!

Labels: eating for good skin, eating healthy, healthy diet, Omega-3s, Omega-3s fish oil

To naturally increase your glutathione, increase your intake of the following foods:

• Cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, collards, kale, Brussels sprouts, Chinese cabbage, bok choy, arugula, radish, wasabi, watercress, kohlrabi, mustard greens, rutabaga, turnips) - at least one to two cups, cooked, daily

• Curcuminoids (turmeric, curry)

• Garlic (a few cloves a day)

• Green tea, one to two cups a day (boosts liver detoxification)

• High-quality, sulfur-containing protein (eggs, garlic, onions)

Labels: cruciferous vegetables, detox, detoxification, garlic, green tea

Antioxidants: Antioxidants have numerous health and beauty benefits including diminishing cellulite, increasing metabolism, and keeping your skin youthful and hair soft and vibrant. You can get antioxidants from antioxidant rich foods such as fruits and vegetables and liquids such as teas and juices.

Wheat Grass: Full of antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients, wheat grass juice is a powerful body cleanser with incredible healing properties. Wheat grass can help with skin problems such as eczema and sun damage. The chlorophyll in wheat grass cleanses and rebuilds the bloodstream and combats toxins.

Spirulina: A blue-green algae with more protein than soy, more iron than beef and more vitamin A than carrots. Spirulina is the ultimate anti-aging food especially good for healthy eyes and strong vision because of its beta-carotene content.

Borage Oil: Also known as Evening Primrose Oil, Borage Oil restores moisture to dry/damaged skin. It can provide relief for chronic skin-care problems such as eczema or acne.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C boosts immunity, treats and prevents colds, protects your skin from free radicals, and aids in collagen production. Use organic face and body products with vitamin C for clear, more radiant skin.

Vitamin E: A natural antioxidant Vitamin E protects the skin from environmental factors and benefits your cardiovascular system and prevents the breakdown of your body's tissue.

Coenzyme Q10: A powerful supplement that fights free radicals and is anti-aging; Coenzyme Q10 stimulates tissue regeneration and reverses skin aging.

Just remember that everything you put in or on your body affects you- inside and out. Making informed choices will lead to a more vibrant, healthy life.

Source

Labels: antioxidants, beauty, borage oil, coenzyme Q10, skincare, spirulina, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, wheatgrass

Source

Labels: Calories, deceit, fast food, Fat, Lies

Olives cannot be eaten right off of the tree; they require special processing to reduce their intrinsic bitterness. These processing methods vary with the olive variety, region where they are cultivated and the desired taste, texture and color.
Some olives are picked green and unripe, while others are allowed to fully ripen on the tree to a black color. Yet, not all of the black olives available begin with a black color. Some processing methods expose unripe greens olives to the air, and the subsequent oxidation turns them a dark color. In addition to the original color of the olive, the color is affected by fermentation and/or curing in oil, water, brine or salt.

Olives are very nutrient-rich, containing heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, and antioxidant phytonutrients, including polyphenols. With all of that goodness, it's no wonder that olives play a central role in the Mediterranean Diet, which has been found to promote vitality and offer protection against a host of different diseases.

Source

Labels: healthy diet, healthy snacks, Mediterranean Diet, monounsaturated fat, olives

Swiss chard is a very good non-dairy source of calcium and an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays an important role in maintaining bone health since it activates osteocalcin, the major non-collagen protein in bone.
Swiss chard's rich supply of magnesium is also necessary for healthy bones. About two-thirds of the magnesium in the human body is found in our bones. Some helps give bones their physical structure, while the rest is found on the surface of the bone where it is stored for the body to draw upon as needed.
Swiss chard is also an excellent source of pro-vitamin A as it is rich in beta-carotene. and thus helps promote healthy vision. In a study of over 50,000 women, those who consumed the highest dietary amount of pro-vitamin A had a 39% reduced risk of developing cataracts.
Chard is also rich in the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that concentrate in the lens and retina to protect them from oxidative damage. Dietary intake of these carotenoids has been found to reduce risk of developing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Read more....

Labels: calcium, greens, swiss chard

An alarming study published in the Journal of Biological Science this week points toward serious health hazards from genetically engineered foods and pesticides. The research, conducted by scientists from France, Italy, New Zealand, U.K. and U.S., corroborates the decade-long criticism by public interest organizations such as the Organic Consumers Association, Greenpeace, and Friends of the Earth that European Food Safety bureaucrats and the U.S. FDA have used unreliable tests to assess the safety of food and products containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs). GMOs are now found in more than 80% of (non-organic) foods sold in conventional grocery stores in the U.S., as well as the majority of animal feed in the EU.

Read more....

Labels: FDA, genetically engineered, genetically modified, GMO, study

The Obama administration is looking to restrict the use of antibiotics in livestock.

The principal deputy commissioner of food and drugs testified that feeding antibiotics to livestock to encourage rapid growth must stop, and that farmers should only be able to use the drugs with the supervision of a veterinarian. The reason behind this recommendation is that the rampant use of antibiotics has strongly influenced the development of bacteria immune to many treatments, rendering common antibiotics useless in fighting infections.

This point of view has long been accepted by the medical community. According to estimates by the Union of Concerned Scientists, chickens, pigs, and cattle receive 70% of antibiotics used in the United States. While the American Medical Association backs the proposed restriction, it is no surprise that meat producers are opposed to it.

Thanks Fit!

Labels: antibiotics, eating healthy, good news, hormones, meat, toxins

Apples

Nutrients: Vitamin C, potassium
How they help control weight: Low-fat apples contain pectin, a soluble fiber that helps carry dietary fats and cholesterol out of the body as waste.
Serving size: One apple
Notes: Research shows that eating three small apples a day promotes weight control. Eat apples raw, including the fiber-rich peel. Red apples contain pyruvate, a metabolism-boosting antioxidant (see page 29 for details).

Lentils
Nutrients: Vitamin B6, folate, magnesium, iron, zinc
How they help control weight: High fiber content fills your stomach quickly with a small amount and helps you feel full for a long time.
Serving size: 1/2 cup
Notes: Try lentil soup or baked lentil "meatloaf," accompanied by steamed vegetables and rice. To alleviate flatulence, add kombu (a sea vegetable) to lentils during cooking.

Oatmeal
Nutrients: B vitamins, iron, potassium
How it helps control weight: Low-fat, high-fiber complex carbohydrate that is digested slowly and has a long satiation factor.
Serving size: 1/2 cup
Notes: Eat whole oats cooked or uncooked, served with 1/2 cup of low-fat milk and fresh fruit; or one slice of whole-oat bread with 1 tablespoon of natural (no sugar added) peanut butter.

Spinach
Nutrients: Vitamins A and C, folate, potassium, calcium, iron How it helps control weight: High in dietary fiber and 91 percent water, making it a super "low-energy-density" food that provides satisfaction at a low calorie count.
Serving size: 1/2 cup
Notes: Eat fresh in a salad, or lightly steamed.

Yogurt
Nutrients: Vitamins A, B, and D; calcium
How it helps control weight: Studies show that the calcium and protein derived from yogurt and other low-fat dairy products may help to burn fat.
Serving size: 1 cup
Notes: Yogurt is a high-protein snack at less than 100 calories per serving. Look for brands that contain acidophilus and lactobacillus, "good" bacteria that promote digestion and immunity.

Source

Labels: apples, eating healthy, healthy food, lentils, nutrition, oatmeal, spinach, yogurt

The only reliable food sources of active vitamin B12 are animal foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, yogurt, and cheese. While some plant foods in their fermented or otherwise processed versions (including sprouting, in some cases) contain vitamin B12, there are no known plant foods that provide consistent, dependable levels of this important nutrient.

Many soil bacteria can make vitamin B12; so can certain bacterial inhabitants of the human digestive tract. Yet, there is inadequate research to confirm that these potential B12 sources are reliable sources for a person who is strictly vegan and eats no animal foods of any kind, including dairy products.

It's important here to distinguish between a strict vegetarian - who might include eggs and dairy products in his or her meal plan-and a strict vegan, who would not include these foods. All of those non-flesh yet animal-derived foods can contain B12. Strict vegans should therefore do one or more of the following:

• Regularly consume foods that have been fortified with active vitamin B12, such as fortified breakfast cereals or bread products, fortified soy products (like soy burgers, hotdogs, or breakfast patties), nutritional yeast, and yeast extracts
• Take an oral, nasal, or sublingual vitamin B12 supplement
• Receive vitamin B12 injections from their doctor.

Source

Labels: Dairy, eggs, essential nutrient, nutrients, vegan, vegetarian, vitamin B12, yeast

Excellent food sources of iron include chard, spinach, thyme, and turmeric.

Very good sources of iron include romaine lettuce, blackstrap molasses, tofu, mustard greens, turnip greens, string beans, and shiitake mushrooms.

Good sources of iron include beef tenderloin, lentils, Brussel sprouts, asparagus, venison, garbanzo beans, broccoli, leeks, and kelp.

Source

Labels: eating healthy, energy, foods, healthy diet, iron

There are at least six compelling reasons to add intervals to your workout, but don't go skimpy on the recovery portion. It's very important to the whole process.

Coach Jenny, over at Runner's World, likens the recovery period of intervals to sleep. You need sleep to repair your body and rest up for the next day, and you need a chill-out period for your body after pushing it through an intense interval so you can push yourself through another one.

Jenny explains it like this:

. . . the payoff comes when you invest in a proper recovery and run at the target fast pace (and not any faster), your body will adapt and you'll soon be capable of not only running faster with less effort, but the time it takes to recover will decrease as well.

When beginning interval training, use the recovery period to allow your heart rate, circulation, and breathing time to recover so you can attack the upcoming intervals with the same energy. If this means you need to walk between sets, that is fine. But as you repeat your interval training, you will notice that you don't need to run as slowly to recover, nor do you need the same amount of time. Just remember, this change doesn't happen overnight — it's a process.

Love it! Thanks Fit!

Labels: exercise, Holistic Health, interval training, running

Anusara (a-nu-sar-a), means “flowing with Grace,” “flowing with Nature,” “following your heart.”

Developed recently by John Friend, anusara yoga is described as heart-oriented, spiritually inspiring, yet grounded in a deep knowledge of outer- and inner-body alignment. Each student's various abilities and limitations are deeply respected and honored, and in an Anusara class the instructor asks you to literally move from your heart.

Anusara yoga's remarkable growth is due in large part to its uplifting philosophy, epitomized by a "celebration of the heart" that looks for the good in all people and all things. Consequently, students of all levels of ability and yoga experience are honored for their unique differences, limitations, and talents.

The practice of Anusara Yoga can be broadly categorized into three parts: Attitude, Alignment, and Action. The principle aspects that define Anusara are:

• a belief that all beings are intrinsically good
• a vinyasa-style practice that emphasizes heart-opening through backbending and physical alignment, including the use of props
• an emphasis on bringing the lessons learned in yoga class into daily life

Labels: anusara yoga, benefits of yoga, living holistically, mind-body, yoga

Dr. Alejandro Junger: There is another “inconvenient truth” still hidden from popular awareness. Global warming is just a symptom. At the root of it is global toxicity, the build-up of chemicals that is threatening all life on earth.

The air we breathe, the water we drink and shower with, the buildings we live and work in, and most of all, the foods we eat, are loaded with chemicals that alone or in combination cause irritation, inflammation, sickness and, ultimately, death.

Preservatives, conservatives, additives for color, smell, taste and texture, pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers, herbicides, fungicides, hormones, antibiotics, wax, chlorine, mercury, lead, arsenic, fluoride, polyhydrocarbons, DDT, PCB’s, phthalates, PBA, saturated fats, trans fats, MSG, detergent and thousands of new chemicals are released every year, with thousands more awaiting FDA approval.

The human body comes equipped with a highly effective detox system, a team of organs working together to eliminate the toxic waste of normal metabolism, such as uric acid, lactic acid, carbon dioxide, ammonia and homocysteine. Somehow it can even detoxify most of the modern chemicals. The problem is that when the detox organs get overwhelmed, toxins continue circulating and cause inflammation. As a defense, the body generates mucus to coat toxins and trap them in the tissues where they remain when digestion is kept working day in, day out. If they persist over time, toxin and mucus accumulation can cause increased acidity, malfunction and eventually the collapse of all systems, one by one.

Global toxicity is enough to overflow the body’s detox capacity. Modern habits worsen the problem by keeping the detox process slow. All the different organs of the body need energy to function. Energy distribution has to be prioritized when many systems are being used at the same time or there won’t be enough. The body still gives priority to digestion over detox. For centuries, food was hard to come by. Only recently in evolution do we have food available and eat it 24/7, but our genes still act as if each feeding is the last meal and slow down everything else to concentrate on food. With digestion a full-time job, detox has to wait its turn while toxins keep coming in.

Modern medicine is detox-blind. Even though this information could save your life, there are no medical specialists dedicated to detect and treat the effects of global toxicity.

Source

Labels: detox, detoxification, digestion, healthy diet, toxic metals, toxins

No other fruit says summer like the subtly crunchy, thirst quenching watermelon. Although watermelons can now be found in the markets throughout the year, the season for watermelon is in the summer when they are sweet and of the best quality.

But watermelon is not only great on a hot summer day, this delectable thirst-quencher may also help quench the inflammation that contributes to conditions like asthma, atherosclerosis, diabetes, colon cancer, and arthritis.

Sweet, juicy watermelon is actually packed with some of the most important antioxidants in nature. Watermelon is an excellent source of vitamin C, rich in the B vitamins necessary for energy production and a very good source of vitamin A, notably through its concentration of beta-carotene. Watermelon is also a source of the potent carotenoid antioxidant, lycopene. These powerful antioxidants travel through the body neutralizing free radicals.

In contrast to many other food phytonutrients, whose effects have only been studied in animals, lycopene has been repeatedly studied in humans and found to be protective against a growing list of cancers. These cancers now include prostate cancer, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, lung cancer and colorectal cancers.

Yummy Watermelon!

Labels: anti-inflammatory, Anti-oxidant, b-vitamins, cancer, carotenoids, fruit, healthy food, lycopene, phytonutrients, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, watermelon

According to a new study by scientists at Rhode Island Hospital, millions of Americans could be at risk of serious and even fatal diseases because of chemicals used to fertilize and to preserve food. Scientists have found a strong link between increasing levels of nitrates and nitrites in our food supply and increasing death rates from Alzheimer's, diabetes mellitus and Parkinson's disease.

Suzanne de la Monte, MD, MPH, of Rhode Island Hospital, and her research team suggest that the exposure to these chemicals is playing a direct role in the cause, development and effects of the pandemic of these diseases. "Because of the similar trending in nearly all age groups within each disease category, this indicates that these overall trends are not due to an aging population. This relatively short time interval for such dramatic increases in death rates associated with these diseases is more consistent with exposure-related causes rather than genetic changes," Dr. de la Monte explained in a statement to the media. "Moreover, the strikingly higher and climbing mortality rates in older age brackets suggest that aging and/or longer durations of exposure have greater impacts on progression and severity of these diseases."

Nitrites and nitrates belong to a class of chemicals called nitrosamines that are created by a chemical reaction between nitrites or other proteins. They've long been shown to be harmful to both humans and animals. In fact, more than 90% of nitrosamines have been shown in tests to be carcinogens. However, they are allowed to be freely added to the US food supply. In fact, if you pick up a processed food package such as luncheon meat or bacon, certain beers and some cheese products, you are likely to find that they contain these chemicals. In addition, exposure to nitrates and nitrites are widely found in fertilizers, pesticides and cosmetics. Exposure also occurs through the manufacturing and processing of rubber and latex products.

"All of these diseases are associated with increased insulin resistance and DNA damage. Their prevalence rates have all increased radically over the past several decades and show no sign of plateau. Because there has been a relatively short time interval associated with the dramatic shift in disease incidence and prevalence rates, we believe this is due to exposure-related rather than genetic etiologies," Dr. de la Monte stated.

The results show that while nitrogen-containing fertilizer consumption increased by 230% between 1955 and 2005, its usage doubled between 1960 and 1980 -- and that's the time period just before the insulin-resistant epidemics of type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease began. What's more, the investigators also found fast food chain and the meat processing company sales increased more than eight fold from 1970 to 2005, and grain consumption increased five-fold. That means the US population has been exposed to dramatic increase in foods loaded with nitrates and nitrites.

Bottom line: the researchers think the increased prevalence rates of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and diabetes cannot be explained on the basis of gene mutations and, instead, are examples of toxin exposure-related disease. "If this hypothesis is correct, potential solutions include eliminating the use of nitrites and nitrates in food processing, preservation and agriculture; taking steps to prevent the formation of nitrosamines and employing safe and effective measures to detoxify food and water before human consumption," Dr. de la Monte, who is a professor of pathology and lab medicine at The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, said in a press statement.

Full article here.

Labels: deli meats, disease, food, nitrates, nitrosamines, study, toxic, toxins, water