Fit For Health Guide

Ah Berries. They are truly one of nature’s most perfect foods. They taste delicious, look wonderful and are chock-full of health benefits. Amazing health benefits! Berries should be eaten fresh if possible and to maximize the health benefits you should try and buy organic berries. The health benefits can also be maximized by juicing fresh berries.

But what exactly are the health benefits of berries?

Let’s take a list of the most popular berries and quickly bullet-point the health benefits…

Strawberries

*Rich source of polyphenols (anthocyanins)

*Help protect against cancer

*Help protect against heart disease

*Natural anti-inflammatory properties

*Protection against rheumatoid arthritis

Blueberries

*Blueberries have the highest antioxidant content of almost any fruit

*Loaded with anthocyanins

*Can help slow-down the aging process

*Promotes urinary tract health

*Protect the cells from free-radical activity

*Could help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease

*Help to improve brain-function

*Contains ellagic acid which can help prevent cancer

*Could help protect against colon cancer

Cranberries

*Chock-full of antioxidants and phytonutrients

*Contain proanthocyanidins that can help prevent disease

Blackberries

*Loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients

*Excellent source of vitamin E

*Can help fight infection

*Contains high amounts of tannin and phenolic acids

Raspberries

*Great source of ellagic acid which can help prevent cancer

*Loaded with phytonutrients, antioxidants and tannins

*Could help prevent cancer and other degenerative disease

I am often asked, “What is the healthiest of the berries?” This is a good question. All berries are fantastically healthy, however; if I had to eat just one type of berry I would definitely choose the remarkable blueberry. Blueberries could possibly be one of the healthiest foods on the planet. They have what is believed to be the highest antioxidant content of any fruit and a plethora of other health benefits. But this does not diminish the healthy benefits of the other berries.

Here are some tips on buying berries…

1. If you can, try and buy organic berries as these will be free of harmful pesticides and other chemicals

2. Try and buy berries that are plump and brightly colored as these are ripe and loaded with phytonutrients

3. Avoid berries that look overly soft or that are bruised

4. Try and use berries soon after purchasing them as they can go bad quickly ‘especially organic berries

5. Always cover and refrigerate berries

If you want to take advantage of the health benefits of berries but are finding it difficult to consistently eat fresh berries, there are some supplement options that can deliver the benefits in a powder or liquid form. But like most health products you need to educate yourself and beware of the many hype-driven, low-quality products that exist.

There has been so much media attention given to berries lately that legions of berry-based supplements have popped up on the shelves of grocery stores and health food stores seemingly overnight. The majority of these are not worth your money because they contain just a smattering of berry powder and you would have to consume obnoxiously large quantities to get any real health value.

The supplements you should target are those that are powders or actual juice. Look for high potencies and keep two critical factors in mind. The first factor is you want to look for supplements that use organic produce. This ensures the integrity of the bulk ingredients and ensures that there are no harmful pesticides and other chemicals. The second factor to look for when shopping for berry-based supplements is that the source of the berries are juice extracts as opposed to berry powder.

The difference between the two is enormous. Berry powder means that they take a whole berry, freeze-dry it and then grind it up ’skin and all. Berry powder is not bad for you; it just limits the amounts of phytonutrients you are getting. Juice extracts, the highest quality source of berry ingredients, means the berries are actually juiced and then the juice is freeze-dried. The phytonutrients and phytochemicals are found in the juice of the berries, not necessarily in the skin and leaves.

Keep in mind however, that buying supplements that contain organic, juice extracts is going to cost you more because the produce is more expensive and the process more tedious. But the extra money spent means you are getting the maximum health benefits from the supplement. Visit our website to learn more about whole-food, super-food supplements.

Berries are some of nature’s most perfect foods. Whether you eat them fresh or take berry-based supplements, do yourself and your body a favor ‘keep eating more of them.

About the Author:

Joe Costello founded Kylea Health in 1995. Kylea is a well-respected nutritional company providing cutting edge nutritional formulas servicing hundreds of thousands of people. Joe is a health researcher, author, and hosts a weekly health Television show. For more information about Joe Costello and Kylea Health and Energy visit http://www.kylea.com

In order to ensure that we’re eating healthy, we need to be sure we are including as many healthy nutrients in our daily meals as possible. Out of all the nutrients out there, do you know which one is most important? Vitamins, minerals- which one would you choose?

Would you be surprised to hear that water is the most important nutrient in our body? Our body is 60% fluid, making water the most important nutrient to our body.

Losing as little as 5% of water in your body can cause headaches, fatigue, confusion, forgetfulness, and an elevated heart rate. You easily lose almost half that amount each day through urination and sweat, so replacing fluid is vital to maintaining a healthy body.

What does water do for the body?

Each part and function of the body requires water in order to operate properly. Without water, no tissue can be formed or repaired and very few chemical reactions can take place.

1. Blood, tears, saliva, gastric fluid, and mucus all contain water. 2. In order for our cells to dissolve and transport vital nutrients, cells must have adequate water. 3. Water dilutes and flushes toxins from the body. 4. Water helps to regulate the body’s temperature 5. Fluid lubricates our joints, cushions the body’s organs, and makes skin soft.

How do I know if I need more water?

You will be happy to know that your body, more or less, can control its balance of fluids. When your body is low, the sodium in the body becomes elevated. As the brain reads this change in sodium levels, it signals to the kidneys to slow down. It is this signal that makes you feel thirsty. But by the time you feel thirsty, you have already lost about 2 cups of fluid from your system!

How much water should I drink?

To be smart about water intake, it is important to drink water even if you are not thirsty. The recommended daily water intake is 8-12 8-ounce glasses of water a day, but other factors must come into consideration here. If the weather is hot and humid, you exercise, and even the types of foods you eat will require that you take in more fluids. On top of the amount of water recommended, you may want to drink an additional 1-3 cups.

How can I get my water intake in?

Simply by making sure you drink it! Try carrying around with you a water bottle (I never leave home without it!). Choose water with your meals over soda, sip water during your favorite show, or while you are doing work. You will find that when you are in the habit of drinking your water, it is easy to get in your required amount.

Can I only drink water?

No. Teas, lemonade, flavored water- they are all great choices and add flavor to boot. Just stay away from liquids like fruit punch and sodas, which are not good for you, anyways.

It is amazing how important water is to our overall health. Adequate water intake really does have a terrific impact on our bodies, so do your body good: drink water!

About The Author:

Colleen is a health and fitness enthusiast who loves to pass on the latest information on health and wellness. Sign up for your free e-newsletter filled with cutting-edge information on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness. For your free e-newsletter, visit http://www.HealthyRevelations.com.

We will all cherish the day we learned chocolate was good for us. Maybe a few naysayers still remain skeptical, but study after study is proclaiming the health benefits, both mental and physical, of chocolate. Even the Life Extension Foundation includes chocolate extract in their flagship vitamin formulas. Many folks are switching from their daily dose of coffee to a cup of hot chocolate. It’s an antidepressant, an antioxidant, its full of vitamins and minerals, it improves drive for procreation, AND it tastes good. Really good. So what is the best way to get the health benefits? Is it as simple as eating cases of your childhood favorite chocolates? As you might have thought, there are considerations when indulging in chocolate as a regular part of your diet. But it can be done! Let’s see how…

Like so many things in our modern world, its the processing of chocolate that makes all the difference. This isn’t just the New Age Hippy types saying this either (as one, the author feels comfortable making this statement). The scientists measuring all the chemicals in our food, telling us which bits are good and which are bad are saying it too. It’s RAW, minimally-processed chocolate that’s the miracle food. Un-roasted, un-cooked plain old powdered chocolate, better known as ‘Cacao’, is far superior in every way for your health. It’s called a ’superfood’ by many, as it’s list of super-good for you super-nutrients is extensive. Note that ‘organic’ does not mean ‘raw’. Even the premium organic hot-chocolate powders found in the high-end health food stores is still roasted and usually processed with alkali (called ‘Dutch Processing’, making it easier to dissolve in water, and destroying most of the antioxidants at the same time). This means that 99% of the chocolate products on the shelves are NOT the superfood you wished they were, but it also points the direction to how to include chocolate in your life on an exceptionally health daily basis. We’ll get to some recipes in a moment, but first a few points to help you remember why raw chocolate is where it’s at.

Energy and stimulation is at the heart of the chocolate experience, but many people are sensitive to chocolate’s effects. There are however, significant differences in the alkaloid structures of raw and roasted chocolate. Raw chocolate’s stimulation comes primarily from theobromine, which has little anxiety producing effects. Studies by natural wellness professionals and user reports both note that while commercially prepared dark chocolate has a very stimulating action that caffeine sensitive individuals may find too strong, an equivalent amount of raw cacao does not. The stimulating effects are reported mild, gentle, and without a ‘crash’ that is often associated with caffeine. A reason for mothers to think about creating their own raw chocolate treats for their children, too. The jury is still out on the actual amount if caffeine in raw chocolate; some investigators have found none, some have found small amounts in the ’skin’ of the cacao beans, and others of found only small amounts in beans that have fermented somewhat (an indication of a lower-quality cacao). Either way, if you’ve refrained from chocolate because of it’s caffeine content, raw cacao may just be your answer to enjoying this treat again.

The really big news about chocolate has been it’s antioxidant profile. Chocolate contains significant amounts of polyphenols — the same important antioxidants found in green tea, red wine and green apples — but in greater amounts. Dark chocolate contains an impressive 5% of these compounds, yet raw chocolate is made up of an incredible 10% concentration of these possibly life-extending molecules. Both roasting and processing with alkali (to make Dutch cocoa) reduce antioxidant concentration. Further, the increased absorbability of powdered raw cacao (perhaps the most versatile form of raw chocolate) over cacao nibs give them an edge in ORAC value, a measure of Oxidative Radical Absorbance Capacity.

Maybe the most intriguing constituents of chocolate are it’s mood-altering chemicals besides its stimulation. Many users of raw chocolate find and even greater boost than from commercial chocolates. Like caffeine, some of the molecules attributed to mood-enhancement are also heat sensitive. Tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, is present in significant amounts and is known to be broken down by heat (and apparently it’s not the Tryptophan in the turkey dinners that makes one tired, it’s the three servings followed by pie and ice cream!). Other natural constituents are dopamine and precursors to dopamine, one molecule called the ‘love chemical’ and another called the ‘bliss chemical’. Add to these monoamine oxidase inhibitors which actually enhance the activity of all of the above mood brighteners. Finally, there’s lots of easily absorbed magnesium in raw chocolate, a mineral associated with serotonin production (many pharmaceutical antidepressants increase serotonin activity), and the ability to relax. Raw chocolate offers the healthiest and most effective means of adding these happy-making nutrients to your daily diet.

Need more be said? Ready for some recipes? The simplest means of eating raw chocolate is snacking on cacao nibs. These are small pieces of cacao beans that mix well with natural granolas or dried fruit. To really get the most benefits, and for the most delicious raw chocolate creations, find yourself a source of raw organic cacao powder. The powder can be added to any drink, or easily made into bars, drops or other shaped candies. The hands-down most common preparation of cacao powder is the hot chocolate drink: Put one heaping tablespoon raw cacao powder, one teaspoon raw agave nectar, and one teaspoon high quality coconut oil in a blender (note that coconut oil quality varies greatly - a good coconut oil should taste pleasant by itself and have no chemical or rancid flavor which would otherwise be noticed in your chocolate drink). Add eight to twelve ounces of hot (but not boiling water) and blend at low speed for about ten seconds. That’s it; Chocolate magic that’s easily adjusted to your tastes — experimenting in whatever way comes to mind is highly encouraged.

There are lots and lots of recipes out there, and great reading on raw chocolate’s health benefits and preparation. You’ll cacao powder often combined with other super nutritious foods in smoothies and good-for-you deserts. Natural organic candies start with the same ingredients as the drinks, but without the liquid. Just make a paste, adding pecans, coconut shavings or whatever you like, and chill to harden. As you’re not baking anything, there’s little to go awry, and really, so many possibilities. By using raw chocolate, you’ll open up a whole new world of cooking for yourself and your family — and if you hadn’t before, you might just find yourself really motivated to treat yourself to natural health and wellness.

About the Author:

The author is a chocolate fanatic, and includes essential oils in many of his recipes. His diverse natural wellness education includes the therapeutic use of essential oils ~ more is available at http://www.anandaapothecary.com

Did you know that getting enough fiber in your diet could help prevent many of the most common health problems? Illnesses such as Colon cancer, heart disease, high cholesterol, breast cancer, constipation, hemorrhoids, and strokes can all be prevented with the aide of fiber.

But unfortunately, many of us don’t get in enough fiber, causing numerous health conditions as listed above. White flour and other refined foods increase the onset of such serious conditions as cancer and heart disease. In countries where people eat natural foods and avoid refined carbohydrates and foods, these conditions appear at a much smaller rate. Researchers and doctors alike have concluded that fiber is one substance we should not live without.

What is fiber?

There are actually two types of fiber. Let’s discuss the different types:

Soluble fiber: The type forms a gel-like coating in the intestines. Soluble fiber traps cholesterol before it gets into the bloodstream, lowering the risk of stroke and heart disease. You can find soluble fiber in: some fruits, legumes, and oats.

Insoluble fiber: This type of fiber soaks up water as it goes through the intestines, helping to prevent constipation and hemorrhoids. Insoluble fiber also binds to estrogen found in the intestines, in turn allowing less of the hormone to enter the bloodstream. Some researchers have found that this can help to lower the risk of breast cancer.

How can I get enough fiber into my diet?

You don’t need to measure and worry about getting in enough fiber each day. It is actually quite easy! First, you want to make sure you get in about 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day. And do not worry about making sure you get in both types of fiber. By simply eating a lot of fruits, loading up on your veggies, beans, and whole grains, you will quite assuredly be getting in enough of both soluble and insoluble fiber.

Need some suggestions on maximizing your fiber intake?

Chose whole grains: Whole grains have twice as much fiber as breads made with white and refined fiber. Just because something says “wheat”, do not assume it is. The label must read “whole wheat” or better yet, “whole grain” to have adequate fiber.

Eat your stems: How many of us throw the stems away on broccoli and asparagus? I know I have often been guilty of this. But know that these stems contain the most fiber and are really quite good for you! To make them easier to eat, try cutting them into smaller, bite-sized pieces before you cook them.

Eat the peel: It is amazing how much fiber is contained in the peel of fruits and vegetables. When you throw away the peel, you also throw out beneficial nutrition and fiber. Eat apples, potatoes, and carrots with the peel on for extra fiber.

Eat your beans: Beans are one of the best sources of fiber. Just a half-cup of black beans contains 25 percent of the recommended daily amount of fiber. And, they taste great!

Eat your cereal: Many cereals contain a lot of fiber. Sprinkle some wheat germ on your cereal, and you get an extra boost of fiber!

Getting in your fiber is important and really quite easy. As you begin to increase your fiber, please be aware that it is normal to experience an increase in intestinal gas as you begin. To avoid this, start adding fiber slowly, increasing your intake just a bit every couple of days until you are able to load up with no discomfort.

Fiber is a healthy and important addition to your diet, and your body will thank you for it!
About The Author:

Colleen is a health and fitness enthusiast who loves to pass on the latest information on health and wellness. Sign up for your free e-newsletter filled with cutting-edge information on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness. For your free e-newsletter, visit http://www.HealthyRevelations.com.

Are you unsure which vitamins are in which foods? If so, it’s time to change that because your health could be in jeopardy!

A vitamin is an organic substance or chemical found in food that is absolutely necessary for normal growth, health, and bodily functions. Vitamins help the body to resist infection, as well as to increase mental alertness.

It is best to ingest our nutrients through whole foods, but very often we need to supplement our diet. If needed, choose natural, whole food vitamins. These vitamins are made from a natural food source and are absorbed by the body much better than chemically produced vitamins.

Did you know that there are 14 different vitamins that fall into two distinct categories? These two categories are fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins.

Water-soluble vitamins (as discussed more thoroughly in a previous article) includes nutrients such as Vitamin C, choline, biotin and seven B vitamins. These vitamins dissolve in water and cannot be stored in the body for an extended period of time as any excess water-soluable vitamins are excreted in urine.

Fat-soluble vitamins, on the other hand, includes Vitamins A, D, E and K and are stored in your body fat and liver if they are not used immediately for digestion. Excess fat-soluble vitamins can accumulate in your body and reach toxic levels.

In this article, I will discuss the various fat-soluble vitamins and get you on your way to creating a healthy diet!

The following is a description of each fat-soluble vitamin:

Vitamin A - Can be found in liver, dairy, and cod liver oil. Helps our cells reproduce normally, stimulates our immune system, and is required for the formation of protein, bone, and growth hormone. Aids in fighting infection, PMS, urinary tract infections, and acne. May reduce harmful cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart attacks. Vitamin A may prevent night blindness, improve eyesight, and strengthen our teeth, bones, hair and gums.

Vitamin D - Can be found in cod liver oil, egg yolks, and butter, but the majority of vitamin D can be supplemented by sunlight exposure. Helps our bodies to absorb calcium and vitamin A. If taken with vitamins C and A, it can help to prevent colds. Without vitamin D, phosphorus and calcium cannot build strong bones and teeth. Also aids in preventing migraine headaches and osteoporosis.

Vitamin E - Look for Vitamin E in wheat germ oil, nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, whole grains, egg yolks and leafy green vegetables. Aids in PMS, cold sores, increased energy, and wound healing. Helps keep our skin looking young, aids oxygen in traveling throughout our bodies, prevents and dissolves blood clots, and helps wounds heal faster. Also aids in lowering blood pressure, minimizing leg cramps, and in helping nerves convey messages faster.

Vitamin K - Found in leafy green vegetables. Vitamin K is needed for proper bone formation and blood clotting. Helps the body transport calcium.

Proper nutrition is the key to a long and healthy life. Make wise food choices each and every day to maintain the healthy lifestyle that we all aim for!

About The Author:

Colleen is a health and fitness enthusiast who loves to pass on the latest information on health and wellness. Sign up for your free e-newsletter filled with cutting-edge information on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness. For your free e-newsletter, visit http://www.HealthyRevelations.com.

Most of us all assume that the older we get, the more forgetful we become. But did you know that forgetfulness does not necessarily have to happen?

Studies have found that older people forget more often when they are expected to. For example, in China, older people score great on memory tests: and in this culture, they are never told how forgetful they are.

Studies are showing how important our food intake and a proper diet actually are in maximizing our potential and brainpower. Good, nutritious food has the ability to sharpen thinking by helping the cells of the nervous system function properly.

A good diet positively affects the operation of brain-related enzymes, helps get rid of cellular waste, and helps to nourish the structure of brain cells. Proper nutrition and a healthy diet also can help to regulate vital chemicals that aide in a variety of mental processes and influences the amount of oxygen and energy that is delivered to the brain.

How should I eat?

What we eat, and even when we eat has an effect on our brainpower. How many of us have skipped breakfast in the morning only to feel mentally slumped throughout the day? Breakfast, in my opinion, is THE most important meal of the day as it plays a critical role in jump-starting the brain after a long sleep with no nourishment.

It has been found among school-aged children that those who skipped breakfast made significantly more mistakes in their schoolwork than those who ate a good breakfast. This also applies to adults and their work.

Breakfast is vitally important: just make sure you are eating the right foods. Sugary breakfasts with little nutritional value will not help your brain during the day. In fact, they can make you feel sleepy, cranky, and all around yucky! Make sure to select healthy breakfast foods.

What should I eat?

Stay away from refined sugar, simple carbohydrates, and processed foods for maximum brainpower. Low-fat, healthy whole-foods, vegetables, and fruits are all great choices! Here are some especially great nutrients that can help give your brain a boost:

Choline: Choline is imperative in manufacturing the memory nerve chemical acetylcholine. The body makes some, but by adding brewers yeast, egg yolks, peanuts, liver, and wheat germ, you can possibly improve your memory and get more out of your food.

Antioxidants: Antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, and E can block free radicals from damaging the brain cells and can even help to ward off Alzheimer’s disease. Broccoli, carrots, cantaloupe, oranges, kiwi, prunes, and sweet potatoes are all wonderful choices in boosting your antioxidant intake.

B Vitamins: B vitamins play a big role in nerve and brain function. Boost your intake by adding chicken, collard greens, oranges, salmon, and low-fat milk into your diet.

Iron: Iron helps to carry oxygen to the body. Chicken, enriched cereal, and lean red meats will help your body get the iron it needs.

Herbs: Ginkgo Biloba and Kava both have the ability to improve your memory and provide clear thinking.

The old saying, “You are what you eat” may hold a lot of truth when it comes to your brain. Eat processed, sugary foods and your brain will respond slow and unclear. Eat healthy, whole-foods, and your brain will be sharp as a tack!

About The Author:

Colleen is a health and fitness enthusiast who loves to pass on the latest information on health and wellness. Sign up for your free e-newsletter filled with cutting-edge information on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness. For your free e-newsletter, visit http://www.HealthyRevelations.com.

Because of the industrial processes involved in manufacturing, sugar has very, very little nutrition value: The vitamins and enzymes have become denatured (loose their molecular shape) and thus fail to contribute to the body’s metabolic requirements. Refined sugar is also devoid of mineral content.

-It is pure energy

For those who frequently eat significant amounts of refined sugar products, this can lead to many problems.

Because a large intake of sugar causes a sharp rise in blood glucose, the pancreas jets out high levels of insulin as a sudden response. The insulin converts glucose into glycogen as storage in the liver.

However, the overreaction of high insulin more than converts the excess glucose. This results in the blood having lower than normal glucose levels. Consequently, hunger is felt. Remember that, an individual in this circumstance has more than enough glucose, but it has been converted as storage in the liver.

So the need to munch away again is carried out (more sugar perhaps?). The even more excess glucose from this next eating binge causes the glucose storage to get converted into fat…Frequent recurrences of this situation can lead to obesity and type ‘2 diabetes.

-It can cause Type-2 Diabetes

Diabetes is the body’s inability to control the blood glucose levels. Diabetes type-1 is where there is insufficient insulin; a lack of insulin produced from the pancreas needed to regulate sugar levels. In the case of diabetes type-2 the insulin levels needed are sufficient. However, the insulin produced is ineffective: What this means is the insulin is not in any way defective but is ineffective in that the body’s cells do not respond to it. With reference to the earlier point regarding the constantly high sugar intake and high insulin levels as a response: This is how the body develops type-2 diabetes over time. It takes about 6 years to manifest.

The sad thing is that there are now record-breaking numbers of children developing this disease as young as six or seven years old, such as those in the United States of America.

Is this slow-motion suicide?

Obesity and the failure to metabolise carbohydrates effectively could lead to illnesses such as: Poor night vision, blindness, kidney disease, cardiovascular problems, liver failure, damage to nerves, impotence, obesity, failure of wounds to heal properly, not to mention type-2 diabetes can lead to a whole range of side effects. This includes: Alzheimer’s disease, a lack of male function with low testosterone levels…There is no doubting that diabetes type-2 goes hand in hand with obesity.

-Hyperactivity, mood swings and depression

There is much evidence to support the idea that ‘food changes the mood’. Individuals taking high levels of sugar on a regular basis are no exception. Take the case of children as an example. If you want to see some of them not bouncing off walls and have their hyperactive state prevented or greatly reduced: the solution may be easier than you think. -Just stop giving them sugar. Substitute this for good natural, wholesome food and watch them change their behaviour.

Mood swings and depression has been linked to fluctuations in blood glucose levels. Remember, when refined sugar products are eaten, first there’s the ‘rush’ or ‘highs’ experienced, and then the pancreas overcompensates by jetting out more than enough insulin (roller coaster ride). This results in too much glucose converted in to storage. So now there’s low-level blood glucose. Cravings for more of that sweet stuff comes about and the accompanying feelings of being foggy headed, depressed or down in the dumps results.

-Sugar feeds bad micro-organisms

If ever there is a circumstance whereby disease is allowed to manifest, it is by means of a sugar environment. Micro-organisms can be abundantly present in the body’s internal dead-end regions. For example, they can be at ducts or lymph nodes. Feed them on their favourite food, sugar, they will grow and multiply. Consequently, you could be well on the way to illness from the toxic environment they generate.

-Sugar and Ageing The Advanced Glycation End-products (AGE’s), the nasty yellow-brown compounds made up of sugar and body tissue protein acts as a precursor to aging. In effect, the body becomes oxidised and then ageing, premature grey hair and wrinkles… manifests. Sugar addicts may be rusting themselves away into an early grave since degenerative disease could soon follow on.

Remember that sugar has no nutrition value of its own. It is of no use to the body’s cells: No contribution to growth or repair. So if sugar is eaten, the body is depleted of nutrients by having to deal with it. For example, as William Duffy quite rightly points out in his excellent book ‘Sugar Blues’, through eating sugar, the body is depleted of copper, which is an essential in maintaining the elasticity in veins and arteries. This could lead to strokes or aneurysms. Other essential elements such as sodium, potassium and calcium are used up in handling the sugar onslaught. If too much calcium is used in dealing with sugar, then this could lead to osteoporosis. Not all the sugar is detoxified in the body. Metabolic remnants are left behind that accumulate as fatty deposits.

Sugar can also contribute to an unhealthy acid imbalance in the body.

-Avoid sugar and notice the changes for the better in yourself!!

About the Author:

I, Paul Phillips am a health writer researcher. I graduated in ‘Biological Sciences’ which includes biochemistry, physiology and nutrition. I have worked in various related research and development labs. I am always willing to give advice and help people in my field. For more information please try the link below http://www.HealthNewsLive.net

Don’t begrudge the extra money; it’s worth it when considering your health. Here are my ten reasons for going organic:

1. Organic crop is grown naturally, free from pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and other cocktails of poisonous chemicals. For example, an apple not organically grown can have something like 25 different chemicals on its skin, even when washed.

2. The nutrition value is something like 50% higher than intensively farmed food: Higher vitamin, mineral, enzyme and micro-nutrient content being the factors.

3. Saying no to GMO food is something I highly recommend for three reasons: a) Considerations to safety. Particularly the long-term effects are yet to be determined and are potentially dangerous. Food companies and their research and development have not invested enough time and money on this. b) Natural occurring food has higher nutrition value and c) Companies that genetically modify will own the crop (patents). In other words, that which is naturally belonging to Mother Earth could become property of some greedy corporation. Think about the serious implications here…Choosing organic can be your way of saying no to GMO.

4. Intensively farmed animals are frequently given a wide range of chemical cocktails such as antibiotics, hormones like bovine growth hormone (BGH), anti-parasite drugs… and other medications. These noxious substances remain in the animals when they are killed and turned into food produce for human consumption. The same applies to dairy food.

5. Organically raised animals are at a far lesser risk of becoming diseased and passing on the contamination to humans after they have been killed for consumption. For example, there were no BSE cases reported in organically raised cows.

6. Many people such as myself think that organic food tastes nicer.

7. Organic farming is more conducive to nature. It produces a greater diversity of life and is more flourishing.

8.There is a far less chance of animal diseases such as BSE occurring on organic farmlands, which can be quite costly.

9.There have been far higher cases of illness on intensive farms amongst its workers. This has been related to the agrochemicals used. Therefore, choosing organic farm produce supports a healthier option, not only for the animals but also for its workers.

10.Organic farmland is safer for the public at large to visit People like myself have followed the good nutrition protocol and have felt so much more vitalised, healthier and illness-free. Naturally, I would encourage others to try this for themselves if they haven’t already. Knowing the importance of good nutrition and how to distinguish it allows you to realise that your health is in your hands.

About the Author:

I, Paul Phillips am a health writer researcher. I graduated in ‘Biological Sciences’ which includes biochemistry, physiology and nutrition. I have worked in various related research and development labs. I am always willing to give advice and help people in my field. For more information please try the link: http://www.HealthNewsLive.net

The common cold is as common as white bread. Everyone has had several versions of the cold, so we can all agree it’s not fun. The runny noses, cough, sore throat, and pounding head - what a miserable time!

Did you know there are 200 respiratory viruses? That’s a lot of virus! With all the viruses floating out there, what can we do to ward off, or at least minimize, the effects of the common cold?

How can I avoid or minimize the common cold?

The best way to beat the cold is to wash your hands frequently and use disinfectants on surfaces such as doorknobs, drawer pulls, telephones, and counter tops. Giving yourself an immune system boost by following a nutrient filled diet can also greatly enhance your body’s ability to attack the cold, thus minimizing the effects of the cold or avoiding it all together.

What kinds of foods should I eat?

Including fruits and vegetables in abundance will help to improve your immune system and its ability to attack invading viruses. Take a look at the list below and try to include as much of these options as possible.

Fruits and Vegetables Rich in Vitamin C & E: These will help keep the immune system strong. Try citrus fruits, strawberries, red peppers, and broccoli. To get a good amount of vitamin E, try sprinkling wheat germ on your cereal, salad, or yogurt.

Fruits and Vegetables Rich in Beta-Carotene: Try dark leafy vegetables like spinach and bright orange fruits and veggies such as sweet potatoes and cantaloupe.

Water: In a dry environment, germs multiply. Make sure to drink at least eight - 8 oz. of water a day to hydrate your body and make it hostile to invading viruses.

OK - So I have a cold. What should I eat?

Below is a list of some food items you can add to your diet to help you get through a cold as painlessly as possible.

Chicken Soup: Research suggests that chicken soup contains compounds that reduce respiratory inflammation, as well as providing hydration for the body. Who knew that the soup our mother gave us as a child actually does a lot to heal the common cold!

Herbs: Echinacea, which boosts the immune system, Goldenseal, and Sage are all fantastic herbs to use when battling a cold.

Zinc: Taking zinc lozenges can help to cut a fever, cough, and mucus build-up especially when taken at the first sign of a cold. The downside is that they taste awful!

Vitamin C Supplements: The daily value for vitamin C is 60mg. Those who recommend mega dosing vitamin C when a cold arises suggest 1000 mg.

Now before you decide to prescribe different supplements for your symptoms, always check with your doctor first. They will be able to give you a thorough check up and recommend certain remedies that are special to your needs.

So, the next time you get a cold or feel one coming on, practice the above dietary recommendations and minimize the effects of the common cold.

About The Author:

Colleen is a health and fitness enthusiast who loves to pass on the latest information on health and wellness. Sign up for your free e-newsletter filled with cutting-edge information on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness. For your free e-newsletter, visit http://www.HealthyRevelations.com.

Your heart is an amazing organ. Think about it: your heart works hard each and every day of your life making sure your body runs smoothly. Knowing this, how many of us are really aware of what our heart needs? How many of us really think about the health of our heart on a daily basis?

Taking care of our heart is one of THE most important health actions we can take in order to enhance our life. It’s time to start taking care of that precious organ: your heart.

Studies show that by eating a variety of just ten foods each week, your chances of many heart malfunctions can be reduced. Isn’t that amazing! By simply including certain foods into our diet, we can improve our health and life a longer, healthier life.

Taking a proactive stance on your health can really improve the quality of your life. Look through the list below and see how many of these amazing foods you can incorporate into your daily diet in order to improve the health and stamina of your heart.

1. Eat fish twice a week to help maintain normal heart function, prevent platelets from clotting and promote healthy blood pressure through the valuable omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. Try eating salmon, tuna, sardines and swordfish at least twice a week.

2. Eat beans 3-4 times a week. Beans provide a lot of fiber that reduces LDL, the bad cholesterol. Try soy products like tofu or soy burgers. They really are tasty!

3. Eat lots of vegetables. Veggies provide a lot of fiber and nutrients that decrease LDL cholesterol and prevents hardening of the arteries. Try broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage.

4. Get in your bright colored vegetables. Including these amazing nutrients will have the same results as above but are also low in calories, which is great for weight loss. Try spinach, romaine lettuce, carrots and bell peppers.

5. Eat your fruit. Fiber and nutrients found in a variety of fruit can help in the decrease of LDL cholesterol. Try any fresh fruit including apples, plums, apricots, and berries - dried or frozen.

6. Get in your whole grains. Fiber and nutrients found in whole grains can help to reduce LDL cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease. Try whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal and popcorn.

7. Use canola and soybean oil when cooking in place of butter, margarine or shortening. These oils are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in many heart functions.

8. Eat low-fat or non-fat dairy products. These will help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Try buttermilk, cottage cheese and yogurt.

9. Alcohol is OK in moderation. A moderate amount of alcohol has been shown to increase HDL or good cholesterol lowering the risk of heart disease. Try a 12oz. beer, 5 oz. wine or 1.5 oz. of 80 proof liquor.

10. Try an occasional treat once in a while. Treat yourself, but in moderation. Try a piece of birthday cake or chocolate on a holiday or special occasion.

In addition to including the above dietary considerations, be sure to mix in some exercise. Try walking, taking the stairs or running to maintain a healthy heart. You’ll be healthier for it and your heart will beat with happiness!

About The Author:

Colleen is a health and fitness enthusiast who loves to pass on the latest information on health and wellness. Sign up for your free e-newsletter filled with cutting-edge information on health, nutrition, weight loss, and fitness. For your free e-newsletter, visit http://www.HealthyRevelations.com.