Tag Archives: Eating Healthy
Oranges have been a popular holiday gift for a long time. I can remember getting huge boxes full of fresh, Florida Valencias almost every year as a child. The only downfall was that many times we couldn’t eat them all before they went bad. So if you happen to have a boatload of citrus fruit on your hand, here’s some practical uses that will boost your health and make your home a bit more green and non-toxic.
1. Juice them. There is nothing better for you than fresh squeezed orange juice. I like to combine them with apples, pineapple, and banana for a sweet afternoon treat.
2. Clean your granite and marble. Cut an orange in half and salt it. Rub it on the surface of your counter as a natural cleanser. It leaves it clean and shiny. Hint: Orange juice is a fabulous grease-cutter. I’m sure you can think of something that needs a good cleaning - stove vents, walls, kid’s bathroom…
3. Make a natural toner and astringent for your face. Squeeze the juice from a slice of orange. Use a cotton ball to dab it all over your face and neck. Use another cotton ball to wipe away any sticky residue that might be left.
4. Freshen your garbage disposal. Put old oranges or just the peels down your disposal and run for 30-60 seconds. Hint: If you use hot water while doing this it will bring out the natural scent of the orange into the kitchen air.
5. Make an orange and clove air-freshener. This is one of my personal favorites. Tie a ribbon around an orange; cross it at the bottom like you would when you wrap a gift. Leave a long piece of ribbon at the top for hanging later. Poke whole cloves into the orange between the ribbon. Simply pick a spot and hang it up for a long-lasting scent that not only smells great but has aromatherapy benefits.
6. Gift them to others. Take a few of your oranges and add some nuts, tea, a clove/orange air-freshener (that you made earlier), and a magazine and make a nice gift basket for a sick friend or someone in a nursing home.
7. Make orange essential oil. Here’s a link to a good recipe. I couldn’t have said it better anyway. http://www.ehow.com/how_5066127_make-essential-oils-orange-peels.html
8. Play games with them. Young children love to play with food. Ask them to tell you the shape and color, and then play a matching game with various other fruits and veggies. The best part is you get to eat them after you’re done!
9. Send some to the troops. Sending care packages to military personel overseas is a terrific way to say thanks. If you don’t know any soldiers or sailors personally, contact your local red cross for addresses where you can send your gift.
10. Decorate with them. You can always just display your abundance of fruit in a bowl or basket. The pop of color is perfect for livening up a dull area of your home. There’s just something about the sight and smell of an orange that makes you feel happy. It’s no mistake that many perfumes and air-fresheners have orange as a main scent. Be well-be beautiful.
Photo by Built to Soar
Hi, Ladies! Today I’d like to share a video that a new friend sent to me concerning our nutritional foundation and a powerful key to our longevity. There is nothing more important than what you will see and hear on this clip. Pay attention to the part where she talks about exercise without the proper nutrition can actually be damaging to your system. And here we thought all we had to do was jump on the treadmill three times a week!
To learn more about Dr. Mitra Ray, visit her site drmitraray.com. Be well-be beautiful.
Photo by Jo Scene
While suffering from a bout of insomnia last night, I sat and watched an infomercial on Montel’s Health Master Emulsifier. I was mesmerized by all the things that the machine does, especially the fact that it can pulverize whole fruits and veggies so you have no waste when you make your smooth drinks. Impressive. And at only $200, it seems a steal. I’m not one to just jump and order something off the TV the second I see it, but this one really has me considering a purchase.
Currently, I use a ten-year-old Champion Juicer to make fresh juice but I hate the clean up and the waste factor. I know that eating more fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the things that all of us need to do for optimal health; finding an easier, more cost-efficient way might just do the trick. I wondered if any of you own a Health Master and would be willing to tell us about your experience with it. Also, please share your best smoothie, juice, or veggie recipes with us for Wellness Wednesday. Be well-be beautiful.
Photo by Ryser915
I wanted to start sharing some of my favorite blogs with you on a weekly basis. Normally, I will post these on Tuesday, but yesterday was a crazy day that seemed to lack a couple of hours. It’s likely that I spend way too much time on the Internet as it is, but I can’t stop exploring for the best women’s blogs out there. This week’s favorite is my friend Suzanne’s blog, Without Dash. She has actually done a guest post for us in the past, so obviously she is a kindred spirit. After reading her post today, I wanted to pass you the link so you could experience more of her thought-provoking articles. Enjoy! Be well-be beautiful.
Photo by In the name
Administrator’s Note:
Major holiday time is approaching quickly. Many families will enjoy each other’s company with celebrations that include lots of food and drinks. It’s no wonder that we tend to over indulge and even gain a few pounds. I have made peace with myself by simply making better choices and paying attention to what I’m eating and how much. In addition to that, I’m definitely taking some of Dr. Anca’s advice to stay slim during this fun time of year. Be well-be beautiful.
Surviving the Holidays with Your Waist Size Intact
By Dr. Anca Lamse (The MD who thinks outside the box)
Family Gatherings
Have a couple of fiber pills with a full glass of water before heading out. That way, you won’t be as hungry and won’t delve so deeply into the junk food.
Choose beer or wine over (sweet) cocktails, which contain more calories.
Snacking at Parties
Choose raw veggies first, before going for the cheese or the caramel corn. You will then be somewhat full before getting into the more decadent morsels. Chew your food well and pay attention to its texture and its taste. Catch up with family and friends; focus on interesting conversations vs food.
Foods and Drinks to Limit
Cranberry sauce: has a lot of sugar; take one teaspoon only.
Dried fruit can pack lots of calories; eat non-dehydrated, regular fruit, such as apples, and lots of veggies (stock up your fridge).
Diet sodas have chemicals that are toxic to your body. Drink mineral (sparkling) water with lemon. Fresh squeezed lemon juice is detoxifying to the liver.
Drinking peppermint tea (watch out for heartburn) can minimize your appetite. And it’s a way better choice than eggnog!
Margarine is actually worse for you than butter, believe it or not. Use butter or MCT (medium chain triglycerides, isolated from coconut oil; you can find it at the health food store) or organic extra virgin coconut oil instead.
For the Chocoholic
Buy a small quantity of expensive, organic dark chocolate instead of the cheap milk chocolate. Don’t keep lots of chocolate in the house; buy a small amount when you crave it.
DON’T EAT IF YOU ARE NOT HUNGRY
That confuses the body. Please contact me if your cravings are out of control. It can be a sign of hormonal or neurotransmitter imbalance.
Rest
Don’t over commit yourself. Less is more. Relax by taking an aromatic bath (with pure essential oils); reading a good book; taking a walk; watching a funny show or a documentary that improves your knowledge. Get a massage or reflexology treatment. Laugh. Get enough sleep. Eat well. Play the music that makes you feel good. Meditate. All these things increase your immune system and your resistance to the flu.
***To learn more about the Lamse Wellness Clinic and the services provided there, contact Dr Anca Lamse, MD. Please forward any questions directly to her or to the Women’s Life Link Contact Page.
Lamse Wellness Clinic 17 E. Moore St, Mooresville, IN 46158 Phone: 317-834-9304; Fax: 317-831-0864 www.lamseclinic.com
***The content of this post is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, it’s authors, contributors, commentators, associates, and linked sites do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or condition. Thank you.Photo By BuddyStyle
Wellness Wednesday
From Ice Cream to Green Beans and Brussels Sprouts! By Donna Martelli (Fitness Trainer)
Last week I had green beans for an evening snack; last night I had Brussels sprouts. I chuckled as I thought about a typical evening snack in the 80’s and 90’s – a bowl of ice cream, sometimes with various incredibly rich toppings. True, I weighed 25 lbs more back then and was concerned about the continual expansion between my waist and my knees. I did exercise and was somewhat physically fit – but…oh, the ice cream!
How Things Have Changed
Education started it – learning about the extra calories and sugar and how they were affecting my body. Often I could not sleep because of the late night sugar onslaught. Then the next day, I would try to wake up with lots of coffee. The ultimate motivator to change things was not feeling well and getting sick too much. I also had a stressful life and developed Fibromyalgia.
So, What Happened?
Just like everyone else, I wanted to feel good! So, I tried to eat more fruits and vegetables (it always comes down to this, doesn’t it)! And I started taking a multi vitamin. Better? A little. I still had to deal with the rest of my diet which was similar to the average Americans. I never really liked fast food (except Taco Bell), so that wasn’t a major problem. I just ate what I was trained to eat - eggs and bacon or cereal for breakfast, a sandwich or salad (with lots of goodies) for lunch, and meat, potatoes, vegetables and dessert…plus the ever present bowl of ice cream at bedtime. No wonder I was carrying around that extra 25 lbs and gaining more.
Considering the options, I remembered my diet as a dancer: fruit and cottage cheese, yogurt, tea and coffee, meat twice a year or so – not so great for being healthy but effective for keeping weight down – especially with all of the strenuous dancing I was doing at the time.
OK, Back to the Future
I’ve studied and learned, listened to my body, and trained it to like the right things. Am I perfect – emphatically, NO! But I no longer carry that extra 25 lbs; my diet is full of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and a small portion of lean meat every day or every other day. I drink plenty of water and take the right vitamins and supplements recommended by my doctor. A bite of dark chocolate in the morning zaps my desire for sugar and gives me some great antioxidants.
One More Change for the Better
One habit I got into through socializing and trying to medicate physical pain was drinking wine in the evening. It was a great sleep aid but became too important to me. It was great fun but it sharply cut into my creativity and leached my energy; not to mention, I felt sleepy and shaky most days. A minor health scare and a strong word from my doctor convinced me that this was NOT the answer. Excessive alcohol use has been linked to breast cancer and osteoporosis!! That is certainly not the path I am taking!
So, another turn for the better…and, I think it’s time for my evening bowl of…Brussels sprouts! Yum!
Photo by Make it yours
A Positive Journey
Sorry about missing last week’s post for week 10; I had a busy few days of helping with decor for an event. Anyway, as the three month period of the health challenge comes to a close next week, I am asking myself if I feel any better than I did when I started. The answer is definitely yes! Though I haven’t completed everything that I wanted to, my body has responded to the changes that I did make. Here is a list of the positive things that have happened as a result of focusing on my health.
1. My chronic headache condition is much better. I haven’t had a daily headache in over 2 weeks as a result of some changes in diet and meds, which means that I take way less OTC drugs on a daily basis. No migraine headaches as of late either.
2. I have more energy.
3. My memory is much better than it was 3 months ago.
4. I realize how important it is to focus on some aspect of your health daily.
5. I lost five pounds. (I still have a week left to go for a few more).
6. My skin looks creamier and the texture is finer. I switched to all organic, natural personal care products.
7. I have more health confidence.
8. Exercise is more consistent.
9. I get over viruses faster.
10. I’m sleeping better.
Reaching Higher
I plan on continuing my quest for better health as I understand that it is a lifestyle that must be followed, not just a diet or a short period of change. I am planning on seeking the advice of my trusted health care providers to help me reach even higher levels of health. I have purchased the books that Dr. Lamse recommended on Enzyme therapy and plan to pursue that treatment for overall physical health. I will let you know how it goes. Until then, be well-be beautiful! I’m planning on it!
Photo one by 50 Minutes; photo two by Gullible
Wellness Wednesday
Enzymes: A Missing Health Link?
By Dr. Heidi Kline, DC, IHS
Every one knows there are certain things that the body needs to survive and thrive; these include water, oxygen, and nourishment. However, our bodies have other crucial requirements that most people have never even heard of; one of these widely missed components are enzymes. I was one of those people…and I am a doctor.
My Own Discovery
It wasn’t until I joined Dr. Mary Jo Johnson’s chiropractic and wellness practice that she personally introduced me to enzyme therapy. My health was way out of whack; I needed her expertise to help me gain my health back. She taught me how to balance my life by addressing my physical and biochemical stressors. Let me explain. First, let me tell you what I felt and how I acted prior to the enzyme therapy. I was a carb junkie! Seriously, I needed carbs constantly. I cried…all the time; I had horrible acne; I was lethargic and bitchy. Not good.
Enzyme Basics
There are three building blocks of nutrients: Carbohydrates, Lipids, and Proteins. If you’re body does not make enough enzymes to break down these substances or if you over indulge in them, here is what you will likely feel:
Carbohydrates: Loss of energy, inability to concentrate, easily startled, an unstoppable craving for carbs (you can’t digest them so it’s like you never ate them…even though you just had a bagel), allergies, anxiety, headaches at the base of your skull, asthma, arthritis, and either diarrhea, constipation or both. Yuck!
Lipids: Headache at your temples, uncontrollable blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, dry skin, pain in your upper back/shoulder region, inability to conceive, inability to induce labor, and spontaneous abortion. Dangerous!
Side Note: Cholesterol looks like a lipid and Lipitor is the highest selling drug for Pfizer Labs. Interesting. Guess what the second highest is? Viagra. Therefore, if you digest your lipids better you and your man would have a better sex life…not to mention more energy and an increased sense of well being. Basic biochemistry.
Proteins: TMJ pain, cholesterol issues, sweating (clammy hands feet, skin), cold hands and cold feet, swelling in your hands and feet, and bleeding gums.
Are You Lacking Enzymes?
Does any of this sound familiar? Could enzymes be your missing health link? How many women do you know who could benefit from enzyme therapy? It’s not too good to be true. I’m a living success story. Because of the treatment, I am 20 lbs lighter and have more energy (most days I have mega energy). This simple but profound therapy can actually restore a woman’s natural biochemistry even after major system changes like childbirth, surgery, trauma, stress, and menopause.
Now, just to let you know, I still slip up and enjoy the—not so good for me— treats, but my whole life has changed. I’m not going back. If you’d like to join me in this place of health…you can. It just takes daily baby steps and understanding that you are an awesome human being and a beautiful woman! Every day is a new day. A great easy book to start with is Dr. Lita Lee’s, The Enzyme Cure: An Alternative Medicine Guide (Alternative Medicine Guides)
~Namaste~
***For more information about this important health topic, contact Dr. Heidi Kline. Chiropractic & Wellness Center 1305 W. 96th Street, Suite C 317-580-9867 chirowellnessindy.com
***The content of this article is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, its authors, associates, linked sites, and commentators do not claim that any of the content will diagnose or lead to a cure or improvement of any disease or condition.
Photo by Rose Anne
Wellness Wednesday
“You Are What You Absorb”: Enzymes to the Rescue By Dr. Ance Lamse
I was stunned when I checked the vitamin and mineral levels of one of my patients who had been taking her high-quality supplements faithfully. She was deficient in many vitamins and minerals!
They say “you are what you eat.” However, not many people pay attention to the digestion and absorption process. “You are what you absorb,” is a more accurate saying. Good digestion of the proper nutrients leads to healing, healthy growth, and energy.
Digestion begins in the mouth, with the enzyme amylase, which digests carbohydrates; we MUST chew our food well. Yet how many of us practically inhale the bagel, or the bread, or the cookie we eat?
Is There a Brewery In My Gut?
There is a theory out there, regarding undigested starches and carbs in people who have an overgrowth of yeast (or Candida). In The Ultramind Solution by Dr. Mark Hyman, 
At any rate, faulty digestion leads to nutrients that are not broken up (digested) properly. Think about nutrients as a necklace of pearls; every pearl must be separated from the string, in order to be used properly by the body. If two or three or more pearls are connected, and the gut is not healthy, that small “trio” of pearls enters the bloodstream and elicits an immune response.
You may have heard about “leaky gut.” Well, in an individual with leaky gut, these connected pearls cause the immune system to be alerted, leading to antibody formation. Ultimately, if the immune system works overtime, the risk of developing autoimmune disease (such as lupus, psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis) increases. How about getting those pearls separated one by one, in order to calm down the immune system AND in order to make use of the wonderful nutrients we choose to put in our mouths?
My Personal Experience with Digestive Enzymes
After a GI infection January of 2008 left me with a ton of food allergies, I was at a loss about what to do: my energy level was not commensurate with the good food that I was eating. Plus, I would feel fatigued right after I ate my meals, and I was ALWAYS hungry.
With the help of digestive enzymes now, I am able to extract the nutrition and energy out of my meals; I noticed results 1-2 days after I started taking the enzymes. My mind is more clear; I have more energy; and my cravings are GONE! I have not desired chocolate in weeks! There is such a peace when the stomach is satisfied!
What Do Enzymes Do?
Digestive enzymes are used with food. Systemic enzymes are used between meals, in order to “clean up the immune complexes and other junk floating around in the body.” Be aware, however, that these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. I have extracted this knowledge from various authorities on enzymes and about ten books, including Dr. Edward Howell’s, who is considered one of the fathers of enzyme therapy.
What else do enzymes do, other than help with autoimmune conditions (in conjunction with other treatments)? Apparently, in Europe they use enzymes for the Olympic athletes (injuries heal sooner). I can attest to the wound healing power of enzymes, as I watched my hangnail’s healing time decrease to 1/7th its normal rate. Bruises resorb much faster (again, personal testimony). There are also clinics specialized in cancer treatment that have used enzymes.
No Wonder I’m Always Tired
I read somewhere that the body may use up to 80% of its energy in digestion. (Don’t ask me how they came up with that). However, it makes sense that if the body is occupied with triaging and sorting the good from the bad, it may not have as much energy to use for healing purposes and for energy.
Do you have much energy after the Thanksgiving dinner celebration? It makes sense that lifting some of that burden off the body would help it fight other battles, such as destroying viruses and bacteria. Whenever I feel like I’m coming down with a cold, I eat lightly and use digestive and systemic enzymes. Helping with digestion and taking some of those immune complexes out of circulation also lifts a burden off the liver, since that’s one of the organs that detoxifys the blood.
Studies have shown that older and/or sick people have fewer enzymes in their urine. Enzymes may then conceivably be employed for graceful aging.
I am fascinated with the power of enzymes; I think that we (in the medical field) are only scratching the surface when it comes to enzymology in health and nutrition.
Caution: Consult Your Health Care Provider
If you want to start taking enzymes for wellness or treatment purposes, make sure that you consult with a knowledgeable health care provider. People who have bleeding problems, liver or kidney problems, those breastfeeding or pregnant, or are on long acting medications (XL or SR) are not the right candidates for enzyme therapy. You may want to get your enzymes from raw and fermented foods, if your health care provider approves.
For those who can safely take enzymes, I recommend that you buy your enzymes from companies that specialize in making enzymes, to ensure proper quality. I recommend that you start out with the book, Enzyme Therapy Basics, by Dr. Friedrich W. Dittmar, MD & Jutta Wellmann
. If you have any questions, please let us know.
For more information about Dr. Anca and her medical practice, see the following contact information. Lamse Wellness Clinic 17 E. Moore St, Mooresville, IN 46158 Phone: 317-834-9304; Fax: 317-831-0864 www.lamseclinic.com***The content of this article is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, its authors, associates, linked sites, and commentators do not claim that any of the content will diagnose or lead to a cure or improvement of any disease or condition. Photo by Imaexpo
Tip of the Iceberg Tuesday
(A little controversy for your day)
What About Those Men?
If your household runs anything like mine, then every time you turn around someone (I won’t name names, but HE is a man, maybe the father of your offspring) sabotages your efforts to promote a healthful lifestyle. It’s one thing if they want to pollute their own bodies with the likes of Doritos, Bugles, and soda, but back away from the kids; and keep that tempting snack parade out of our sight!
Look, we are trying to stay on the path of good health here…on a daily basis; the least they (nameless sources of frustration in the area of health and wellness) could try to care just a little about the well being of our families. Don’t get me wrong, they (the men) love us; this just isn’t a topic that lives in their fore-brain longer than a millisecond at a time. Sorry guys.
What They Need to Know
Men need to know that we care about their health too. It’s not just that we women have to up each other with scoring big at the latest organic food sale, making the yummiest eggplant, or discovering the fastest way to washboard abs, but it’s the principle that WE have this life to live; we might as well live it in health and look fabulous while doing it – the responsible way. Not to mention we need to set a good example for our children…BTW, in case Mr. Donut Dad didn’t notice, they see everything; they copy everything. Period.
You Must Let Your Man Read This
I say get off your @%&es and do something for yourself and your family. Be fit and healthy, or at least give it a good try…for longer than a week. You have no idea how jealous we women are of your manly ability to burn fat and build muscle with minimal effort. You could literally get your biceps back, your pecs off your belly, and shrink the spare tire (yeah, the one that looks like your carrying twins) within a few short weeks or months.
You love to watch us stay in shape (miraculously…or so you think) and be simply lovely in that sexy dress. Well, we deserve the same eye candy from you. I personally enjoy seeing firm pecs and a tight rear on a man. Here’s the other thing: What if something happens to you because you’ve not taken care of yourself all these years? What if you leave your family suddenly because your arteries are clogged with Mickey D’s and Dunkin Donuts? That’s what I thought. You haven’t thought about that because it’s too morbid and negative. There are positive reasons to be healthy; dwell on those instead.
The Reality
Men need our help to get started. They also need to have a good reason to endure such a lifestyle change – just as we do. It might be your new project; it might be that he will just wise up and go for it (HaHaHa…). At least make sure that he gets regular check ups and actually tells you what the Doc said. He may not want to be honest if it’s bad. Be gentle. Tell him the things that concern you. Hopefully, he will get the hint and make better choices for himself and the family. What ever you do, don’t let him do the grocery shopping…at least not alone.
So, to answer the question I posed in the title, yes, I believe women care more about health and wellness than men do. I could be wrong, but I doubt it. Tell us how well the man in your life takes care of himself. Also, please share if your man is the health buff and you tend to be the one who slacks in this area. Be well-be beautiful…you men too.
Photo by Tabbitta
Administrator’s Note
This wonderful Friday, I am fortunate to have professionals as a part of this blog to teach us about our bodies and the health that we all want to have. The knowledge that others offer freely is imperative to our growth as humans and as women. Be thankful with me.
Donna Martelli has written a stellar post about portion control that we all need. Have you ever dined out and had the server plop a plate of food down in front of you that could feed a football team? We are constantly bombarded with food portions that are WAY out of line with those that we should be eating. The key here is knowledge. The only defense we have against the imbalance in our society is educating ourselves about health and eating right to obtain it.
˜Kellie
Eating Healthy: Portion Control
By Donna Martelli
We all know we should eat the right things and in the right amount… but how? What are the practical steps we should take? Read on to learn how to get portion control down to a science.
1. Know that your body is very adaptable. It can be trained! It will do what you tell it to do. You must take control!
2. Knowledge is power! What is a healthy portion? Your entire meal should be 2 handfuls! Ouch! Sorry! BUT the good news is you can have 4-6 meals a day!! Does that help?
3. Meat - If you like meat, it’s OK, but a serving is to be the size of your fist!
4. Getting Your Veggies – You can have lots of green and yellow veggies and salads but use olive oil and red wine vinegar as a dressing. Olive oil is so good for you and it tastes great!
5. Feeling tired and hungry? Enjoy a teaspoon of natural peanut butter or a handful of walnuts! Yum!! You will be amazed at how these can curb your hunger.
6. Curb the Hunger – I find that if I eat even a small amount of protein I am not hungry for several hours. Suggestions: `1 oz of low fat cheese, 2 tsp hummus. 1 tsp natural peanut butter (ingredients: peanuts. period).
7. Portable Snacks – If you will be away from home for awhile and are afraid you may be hungry, take your own snack of nuts and fruit…use your imagination and create your own healthy delight. Note: nuts are to be natural, without salt or additives! Walnuts are just wonderful!
8. Water: A Food Substitute – What do you do if you are out and you are hungry – no food in sight?? Drink water, water, water!! It will fill you up and take care of the problem until you can get to your healthy food!
9. IF YOU ARE NOT HUNGRY, DO NOT EAT!! We eat because “it is time” or because everyone else is hungry. So go along with your hungry friends and drink your water or green tea! Why should what you put in your mouth (or don’t put in your mouth) affect your ability to have an enjoyable time with others?
10. If you ARE hungry, do eat and enjoy! Choose veggies, fruits, whole grains and love your life! Find recipes on the net and experiment! Spices and herbs do wonders to make foods interesting and many offer great health benefits!
11. Don’t Stuff Yourself- Many Asian cultures eat only until they are 80% full. I think this is a good rule. You know feeling stuffed is a BAD feeling!! So, stop before you are stuffed, it is OK, you will NOT starve, I promise! Remember, you get to eat again in just a few more hours and if you are hungry before that you can have your protein snack (#6).
12. Make Good Choices! When I go to a restaurant, the salad/soup, entrée and sides are too much – and they should be too much for you too! Eat 1/2 or 1/3 of everything and take the rest home…makes a great lunch (or 2).
13. One Day at a Time – It won’t happen overnight, but if you change to healthy eating your body will be happy! You will feel great! You will have energy like never before! You will not want those processed sugary foods ever again! And, believe it or not, they won’t even taste good to you! I know! I no longer like cake!! I used to think it was a food group!
14. Shrink your stomach? I don’t know – but if you eat less your body will adapt and you will want less…again not overnight!
15. Motivation! You can do it and you will feel so much better! Stuffed is out – lean is in!
16. Contribute to Someone Else’s Health – If you are invited to a pitch-in or potluck where everyone else is bringing ugly things, bring a salad or fruit dish – you will have something healthy to eat there!
17. Portion Guidelines – Here is a guideline as to what portion sizes should be:
1 small baked potato – computer mouse
1½ ounces hard cheese – 3 dice
¼ cup almonds (12 nuts) – golf ball
1 medium sized apple – baseball
1 Tbs butter, margarine or salad dressing – poker chip
1 cup soup – baseball.
There you have it! Now you can make good choices when it comes to portion control. Knowledge is POWER!
Photo 1 by
Wellness Wednesday: You tell us.
Today, I pose the question: Why do you want to be healthy? It is a known fact that if you don’t have a good enough reason to do something, one that motivates through the hard stuff, you won’t do it. So, I ask you to share your thoughts about this important subject.
Here are my reasons as I stated in a recent comment on BlogHer.
Health is natural. The concept is simple, but the actions required to obtain health are not always easy. We were naturally made to enjoy strength, vitality, and a long, fulfilling life on an equally healthy planet. It’s sad that this has become such a challenge.
Health is responsibility. My mother died at age 59 – far too early for my taste. She lived a life of ill-health, most of which was by her choice. I choose life. I choose responsibility. I choose my golden days to be spent with my children, grandchildren, and even my great grandchildren.
Health is freedom. When you’re sick, you’re not free to work, play, create, travel, have sex, write, or simply enjoy the company of another. It’s the way to be if you want to act on your dreams, even the foolish whims that might get you into trouble.
Health is legacy.What example you live has impact on every one around you. Your actions speak to your world and your DNA is passed along to your offspring. The health footprint you leave is your legacy that will live longer than you will.
I choose to think about all of the above reasons to find and keep my health. I choose the natural way, to be responsible, to be free, and to leave a positive legacy for generations to come.
Be well-be beautiful
Photo by Inarryba2007
Alex Wrekk started roasting her own coffee in 2005 for herself. It wasn’t long until those around her took notice of her obvious gift for making a mean bean that could stand up to the best out there. Living in the Northwest, Alex knows the competition well. However, she doesn’t worry about that. She spends her time just creating, selling, and loving the life she lives with Paul, the love of her life, in their 100-year-old home in Portland. Like many other artists, she takes pride in what she offers to customers whether its in the uniqueness of her quirky buttons, zines, or in the quality of her coffee, as I had the pleasure of discovering recently.
The Attraction
One of the reasons that I contacted Alex was because she uses only fair trade and organic coffee to create her specialty blends. This is something that is quickly becoming important to me as I seek to live a healthier life. And, there’s no way I’m giving up my coffee because major companies don’t know how to leave out the pesticides and fillers. Alex’s coffee is affordable, too, not to mention the awesome company name of Brainscan. =) Read on.
My First Organic Coffee
You must know that I am a coffee junkie and one who knows a good bean when I taste it. The first thing I did when I received her samples was smell the package. Immediately, I noticed a rich and robust scent that made my senses come alive. You coffee drinkers out there know what the mere scent of coffee does to you. Second, I brewed the first sample, which was the Ethiopian variety. While it brewed, I again took in the aroma that teased my desire to drink it. I was not disappointed in the several cups that came after that.
With my cup full of the java, I sipped it without adding milk. I needed to know what the true flavor was before making it my own. Surprisingly, I didn’t want to add the milk. Black coffee? Not something I normally have or even like. Your first A+, Alex.
The second flavor was the Small World variety that wasn’t quite as bold as the other but suited my taste. I’m an espresso kind of gal, so the stronger the better. This one is a great every day coffee that I would be happy to serve to guests – definitely for those who like it milder.
You must take a look at her offerings at Etsy.com to truly appreciate her unique talents. I look forward to trying some of her other coffee varieties and even picking up a couple of cute buttons for my fridge, especially the one that says, “DEATH BEFORE DECAF!”
Giveaway
Alex is giving away a pound of her best coffee to one lucky reader. The coffee will come in the gift basket of other organic products that we are reviewing this month. You can enter to win the prize package valued at over $100 by doing any of the following:
1. Visit Brainscan’s website and come back here to share which product you would most love to have.
2. Follow Women’s Life Link on Twitter.
3. Pick up our RSS Feed.
4. Stumble this article.
5. Comment on any of the other reviews we did this month: Red Leaf Tea, Aroma Artisan.
Photo by Pelekes
Wellness Wednesday: Beating Inflammation
If you have been keeping up with my 90 Day Health Challenge, than you know that I have a problem with inflammation. It causes headaches (ones that last much longer than they should), sore muscles and joints, and a fatigue that makes exercise difficult to say the least. So, for this month’s Instant Health Boosters, I researched some ways in which you and I can alleviate this annoying condition.
Food is Medicine
1. Use Olive Oil instead of Corn, Canola, Safflower, and Butter
I became aware of the coralation between Omega Fatty Acids and inflammation some months back when I did a post on the subject. I have managed to change all of our oils over to Extra Virgin Olive Oil (OVOO). This alone is something everyone can do to instantly change the balance of Omega 3 and Omega 6. Most people have way too much Omega 6 in their bodies.
2. Eat some pineapple
Bromelain is a group of enzymes extracted primarily from the stem of a pineapple, a member of the bromeliad (Bromeliaceae) family of plants. Though there is less concentration of Bromelain in the flesh of the pineapple, you can still get a nice dose.
3. Use Tumeric (Curry spice)
The use of turmeric in Indian culture has taken on almost mystical properties, perhaps due in part to its many uses in Ayurvedic Medicine. Tumeric is used for a wide variety of stomach ailments, headache, liver and gallbladder ailments, respiratory infections, cancer and inflammation.
Nature’s Best
4. Try St. John’s Wort
Though this herb is primarily known for its antidepressant effect, italso has anti inflammatory properties. “In a laboratory experiment, researchers from the University of Frieburg, Germany found that hypericin, one of the constituents of St. John’s wort, inhibited NF-kB, which activates proinflammatory genes. Daily dosage: Because product forms vary, follow label directions.” (Quoted from thenutritionreporter.com)
5. Sprinkle Rosemary on your food
The ursolic acid ingredient in rosemaryhelps block the action of inflammation-inducing compounds. You can add a couple of Tablespoons of this flavorful herb to soups, pasta, and salads. One of my faves is a tomato & mozzarella salad with a homemade rosemary vinaigrette. (See recipe below).
Rosemary Tomato Mozzarella Salad
Vinaigrette:
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3-4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1/2 teaspoon fresh oregano, or 1/4 teaspoon dry
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
pinch of red pepper flakes
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
Salad:
2 tablespoons pitted black oil cure olive, chopped
1/2 lb fresh mozzarella (sliced)
5 ripe tomatoes (sliced)
2 Scallions
Allow the minced garlic and chopped scallions to stand in the vinegar for 10-15 minutes before preparing recipe. This will help remove the “bite” from the garlic and mellow it.
Meanwhile, slice tomatoes. Drain mozzarella of any liquid. Remove pits from black olives and chop. Set these ingredients aside in a salad bowl.
Combine vinaigrette ingredients in a cruet or in a blender with the garlic and vinegar from above. Use 4 tablespoons vinegar if you like a tangy salad (3 tablespoons if you don’t). You can use all balsamic vinegar, or if you prefer a milder dressing, use half balsamic and half red wine or Chianti vinegar. No mincing or chopping is required if a blender is used – pulse briefly.
Pour vinaigrette over tomatoes, cheese and olives; stir to coat. Do not add too much dressing – just enough. You can add fresh basil leaves for added taste and garnish.
Product Trial
Just to let you know, I will be trying an anti-inflammatory product that incorporates many ingredients thought to battle inflammation. Because I haven’t received it yet, I will keep you posted about my trial and give company information if I feel the product is worth it. I will also be incorporating the above Instant Health Boosters to my daily health regimen; I’ll let you know how I feel. Please share any anti-inflammatory remedies that you have. Until then, be well-be beautiful.
Resources: thenutritionreporter.com, herbalremediesworld.com
Photo by Jangle-Bangle
The weeks are really flying by here! Overall, I feel good about my progress with my self-induced program- a personal trainer would be nice, though. I think I’d be more inclined to go further with my fitness level; lunges are just no fun unless someone is standing over you barking, “One more, you can do one more, you lazy cow!
I realize that having a support system in all this has made a difference though. I have the best health care providers, alternative therapy practitioners, meta physics gurus, aromatherapy experts, friends, and great resources without which I wouldn’t fair well. As I was grateful for resources yesterday on Fortunate Friday, I am equally thankful for my peeps today.
One area that seems to be lagging behind is my level of inflammation. I’m still quite head-achy, and the old joints don’t like the lunges with or without a maniacal trainer. I need some help in this area; and it needs to be all-natural. I’m sick of NSAIDs. Please let me know if you have any ideas. I know that cherries are anti-inflammatory, and I love them. Thanks to all of you for keeping up with my progress. I am positive that the accountability has made a difference. Be well-be beautiful.
Photo by Duckie-Yuckie