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What is a Probiotic? By mjamic

June 6th, 2009

Probiotics are known as “good bacteria” that take up residence in the gastro-intestinal tract of humans. They not only aid in the digestive process but also help to reduce the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause an upset stomach. There are approximately 400 different types of probiotics in the digestive tract, with the two most prevalent types being Lactobacilli, which is found in the small intestine, and Bifidobacteria, which is found in the large intestine. These probiotics operate by producing a slightly acidic compound which inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and promotes digestion of essential nutrients the body takes in.

So what does this all mean to me?

Consuming foods such as yogurts (with live cultures), some milk and soy products or miso promotes a healthy immune system and digestive regularity. Taking probiotic supplements also does the trick. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

High fiber foods & their health benefits By Olive Oil

November 2nd, 2008

Fiber is the portion of foods that does not break down when passing through the digestive tract. Since these substances have a such a large impact on overall health, individuals are encouraged to eat fiber-rich foods. Fiber is known to lower the risk for diseases such as colorectal cancers, gallstones, diabetes, breast cancer and heart disease, among others.

There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves during digestion and creates a gel-like substance that protects the entire digestive tract from absorbing various substances. One of the substances soluble fiber helps to protect against is cholesterol. By reducing the rate that cholesterol is absorbed, soluble fiber also is an important weapon against heart disease. It also aids in controlling diabetes by controlling the rate of glucose absorption. This reduces drastic variations in blood sugar levels. Soluble fiber is found in fruits and vegetables such as prunes and brussels sprouts and in brown rice, oats and rice bran.

Insoluble fiber enters and exits the digestive tract without being significantly altered. It also absorbs water and, as a result, prevents constipation and aids regular waste elimination. When waste is expelled from the body regularly, the time that potentially harmful substances remain in the colon is lessened. Research has also shown that insoluble fiber lowers the risk for breast cancer by combining with estrogen through digestion and thus reducing the level of estrogen in the body. Some sources of insoluble fiber are wheat, beans, bran, figs and artichokes.

A major advantage of a high-fiber diet is the effect on weight control. Studies have shown that the majority of seriously overweight people have diets low in foods containing fiber. Since fiber-rich foods are filling and, for the most part, low in fat, individuals are satisfied with less food and lose weight easily. It is recommended that between 20 and 30 grams of fiber be consumed daily. This is not difficult if fruits, vegetables and grains are added to the daily diet. However, at least eight glasses of water should be consumed daily to aid the movement of food through the digestive tract.

What is Flax Seed Oil? By Olive Oil

October 25th, 2008

Flax Seed Oil is a blue flowering plant that is grown on the Western Canadian Prairies for its oil rich seeds. This natural oil (also known as Linseed Oil) is highly recommended for the general well being and whole body nutrition and is considered to be nature’s richest source of omega-3 fatty acids that are required for the health of almost all body systems.

Flax Seed Oil contains omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, lecithin, magnesium, fiber, protein, and zinc and also provides approximately 50% more omega-3 oils than what you could get from taking fish oil, minus that horrible “fishy” after taste.

Some nutritionists, researchers, and scientists believe that it could be the most important health-promoting supplement next to a multi-vitamin. Nearly every system in the body can benefit from flax seed oil’s natural properties, including the cardiovascular system, immune system, circulatory system, reproductive system, nervous system, as well as joints.

Not eating past 6PM By rose220

September 6th, 2008

Not eating past 6PM has been all the rage since the cayenne pepper diet. Celebrities like Will Smith and Jeff Lewis stay tone and sexy by disciplining themselves and not eat past a specific evening time. Why is this you ask?

Great question. Eating too late holds a risk for gaining weight since when you consume food throughout the day you are using the energy from that food. When you are asleep, your body is just storing the calories instead of using it, hence your body will be storing calories as fat. It’s no wonder those Midnight Snackers have a tough time with losing weight and staying fit.

Cancer fighting foods By Suze Mae

September 6th, 2008

The National Cancer Institute estimates that roughly one-third of all cancer deaths may be diet related. What you eat can hurt you, but it can also help you. Many of the common foods found in grocery stores or organic markets contain cancer-fighting properties, from the antioxidants that neutralize the damage caused by free radicals to the powerful phytochemicals that scientists are just beginning to explore. There isn’t a single element in a particular food that does all the work: The best thing to do is eat a variety of foods.

The following foods have the ability to help stave off cancer and some can even help inhibit cancer cell growth or reduce tumor size.

Avocados are rich in glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that attacks free radicals in the body by blocking intestinal absorption of certain fats. They also supply even more potassium than bananas and are a strong source of beta-carotene. Scientists also believe that avocados may also be useful in treating viral hepatitis (a cause of liver cancer), as well as other sources of liver damage.

Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower have a chemical component called indole-3-carbinol that can combat breast cancer by converting a cancer-promoting estrogen into a more protective variety. Broccoli, especially sprouts, also have the phytochemical sulforaphane, a product of glucoraphanin - believed to aid in preventing some types of cancer, like colon and rectal cancer. Sulforaphane induces the production of certain enzymes that can deactivate free radicals and carcinogens. The enzymes have been shown to inhibit the growth of tumors in laboratory animals. However, be aware that the Agriculture Department studied 71 types of broccoli plants and found a 30-fold difference in the amounts of glucoraphanin. It appears that the more bitter the broccoli is, the more glucoraphanin it has. Broccoli sprouts have been developed under the trade name BroccoSprouts that have a consistent level of sulforaphane - as much as 20 times higher than the levels found in mature heads of broccoli.

Carrots contain a lot of beta carotene, which may help reduce a wide range of cancers including lung, mouth, throat, stomach, intestine, bladder, prostate and breast. Some research indicated beta carotene may actually cause cancer, but this has not proven that eating carrots, unless in very large quantities - 2 to 3 kilos a day, can cause cancer. In fact, a substance called falcarinol that is found in carrots has been found to reduce the risk of cancer, according to researchers at Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences (DIAS). Kirsten Brandt, head of the research department, explained that isolated cancer cells grow more slowly when exposed to falcarinol. This substance is a polyacethylen, however, so it is important not to cook the carrots.
Chili peppers and jalapenos contain a chemical, capsaicin, which may neutralize certain cancer-causing substances (nitrosamines) and may help prevent cancers such as stomach cancer.
Cruciferous vegetables - broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage contain two antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin that may help decrease prostate and other cancers.

Figs apparently have a derivative of benzaldehyde. It has been reported that investigators at the Institute of Physical and Chemical Research in Tokyo say benzaldehyde is highly effective at shrinking tumors, though I haven’t seen this report. In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says figs, which contain vitamins A and C, and calcium, magnesium and potassium, may curtail appetite and improve weight-loss efforts. Fig juice is also a potent bacteria killer in test-tube studies.

Flax contains lignans, which may have an antioxidant effect and block or suppress cancerous changes. Flax is also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to protect against colon cancer and heart disease.

Garlic has immune-enhancing allium compounds (dialyl sultides) that appear to increase the activity of immune cells that fight cancer and indirectly help break down cancer causing substances. These substances also help block carcinogens from entering cells and slow tumor development. Diallyl sulfide, a component of garlic oil, has also been shown to render carcinogens in the liver inactive. Studies have linked garlic — as well as onions, leeks, and chives — to lower risk of stomach and colon cancer. Dr. Lenore Arab, professor of epidemiology and nutrition at the UNC-CH (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) schools of public health and medicine and colleagues analyzed a number of studies and reported their findings in the October 2000 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. According to the report, people who consume raw or cooked garlic regularly face about half the risk of stomach cancer and two-thirds the risk of colorectal cancer as people who eat little or none. Their studies didn’t show garlic supplements had the same effect. It is believed garlic may help prevent stomach cancer because it has anti-bacterial effects against a bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, found in the stomach and known to promote cancer there.

Grapefruits, like oranges and other citrus fruits, contain monoterpenes, believed to help prevent cancer by sweeping carcinogens out of the body. Some studies show that grapefruit may inhibit the proliferation of breast-cancer cells in vitro. They also contains vitamin C, beta-carotene, and folic acid.

Grapes, red contain bioflavonoids, powerful antioxidants that work as cancer preventives. Grapes are also a rich source of resveratrol, which inhibits the enzymes that can stimulate cancer-cell growth and suppress immune response. They also contain ellagic acid, a compound that blocks enzymes that are necessary for cancer cells - this appears to help slow the growth of tumors.

Studies show that consumption of green and yellow leafy vegetables has been associated with lower levels of stomach cancer.

Kale has indoles, nitrogen compounds which may help stop the conversion of certain lesions to cancerous cells in estrogen-sensitive tissues. In addition, isothiocyanates, phytochemicals found in kale, are thought to suppress tumor growth and block cancer-causing substances from reaching their targets.

Licorice root has a chemical, glycyrrhizin, that blocks a component of testosterone and therefore may help prevent the growth of prostate cancer. However, excessive amounts can lead to elevated blood pressure.

Mushrooms - There are a number of mushrooms that appear to help the body fight cancer and build the immune system - Shiitake, maitake, reishi, Agaricus blazei Murill, and Coriolus Versicolor. These mushrooms contain polysaccharides, especially Lentinan, powerful compounds that help in building immunity. They are a source of Beta Glucan. They also have a protein called lectin, which attacks cancerous cells and prevents them from multiplying. They also contain Thioproline. These mushrooms can stimulate the production of interferon in the body.
Extracts from mushrooms have been successfully tested in recent years in Japan as an adjunct to chemotherapy. PSK is made from the Coriolus Versicolor. Maitake mushroom extract is PCM4.

Nuts contain the antioxidants quercetin and campferol that may suppress the growth of cancers. Brazil nut contains 80 micrograms of selenium, which is important for those with prostate cancer. (Note: Many people are allergic to the proteins in nuts, so if you have any symptoms such as itchy mouth, tight throat, wheezing, etc. after eating nuts, stop. Consider taking a selenium supplement instead or work with someone on how to eliminate this allergy.)

Oranges and lemons contain Iimonene which stimulates cancer-killing immune cells (lymphocytes, e.g.) that may also break down cancer-causing substances.

Papayas have vitamin C that works as an antioxidant and may also reduce absorption of cancer-causing nitrosamines from the soil or processed foods. Papaya contains folacin (also known as folic acid), which has been shown to minimize cervical dysplasia and certain cancers.

Raspberries contain many vitamins, minerals, plant compounds and antioxidants known as anthocyanins that may protect against cancer. According to a recent research study reported by Cancer Research 2001;61:6112-6119, rats fed diets of 5% to 10% black raspberries saw the number of esophageal tumors decrease by 43% to 62%. A diet containing 5% black raspberries was more effective than a diet containing 10% black raspberries. Research reported in the journal Nutrition and Cancer in May 2002 shows black raspberries may also thwart colon cancer. Black raspberries are rich in antioxidants, thought to have even more cancer-preventing properties than blueberries and strawberries.

Red wine, even without alcohol, has polyphenols that may protect against various types of cancer. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants, compounds that help neutralize disease-causing free radicals. Also, researchers at the University of North Carolina’s medical school in Chapel Hill found the compound resveratrol, which is found in grape skins. It appears that resveratrol inhibits cell proliferation and can help prevent cancer. However, the findings didn’t extend to heavy imbibers, so it should be used in moderation.

Rosemary may help increase the activity of detoxification enzymes. An extract of rosemary, termed carnosol, has inhibited the development of both breast and skin tumors in animals. We haven’t found any studies done on humans. Rosemary can be used as a seasoning. It can also be consumed as a tea: Use 1 tsp. dried leaves per cup of hot water; steep for 15 minutes.

Seaweed and other sea vegetables contain beta-carotene, protein, vitamin B12, fiber, and chlorophyll, as well as chlorophylones - important fatty acids that may help in the fight against breast cancer. Many sea vegetables also have high concentrations of the minerals potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and iodine.

Soy products like tofu contain several types of phytoestrogens — weak, nonsteroidal estrogens that could help prevent both breast and prostate cancer by blocking and suppressing cancerous changes. There are a number of isoflavones in soy products, but research has shown that genistein is the most potent inhibitor of the growth and spread of cancerous cells. It appears to lower breast-cancer risk by inhibiting the growth of epithelial cells and new blood vessels that tumors require to flourish and is being scrutinized as a potential anti-cancer drug. However, there are some precautions to consider when adding soy to your diet. Eating up to 4 or 5 ounces of tofu or other soy a day is probably ok, but research is being done to see if loading up on soy could cause hormone imbalances that stimulate cancer growth. As a precaution, women who have breast cancer or are at high risk should talk to their doctors before taking pure isoflavone powder and pills, extracted from soy.

Sweet potatoes contain many anticancer properties, including beta-carotene, which may protect DNA in the cell nucleus from cancer-causing chemicals outside the nuclear membrane.

Teas: Green Tea and Black tea contain certain antioxidants known as polyphenols (catechins) which appear to prevent cancer cells from dividing. Green tea is best, followed by our more common black tea (herbal teas do not show this benefit). According to a report in the July 2001 issue of the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, these polyphenols that are abundant in green tea, red wine and olive oil, may protect against various types of cancer. Dry green tea leaves, which are about 40% polyphenols by weight, may also reduce the risk of cancer of the stomach, lung, colon, rectum, liver and pancreas, study findings have suggested.

Tapioca is derived from the cassava plant. It is one of the many plants that manufactures cyanide by producing a chemical called linamarine which releases hydrogen cyanide when it is broken down by the linamarase enzyme. Spanish researches have been studying the cassava and attempting to clone the genes from the plant which are responsible for producing the hydrogen cyanide and then transfer it to a retrovirus.

Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant that attacks roaming oxygen molecules, known as free radicals, that are suspected of triggering cancer. It appears that the hotter the weather, the more lycopene tomatoes produce. They also have vitamin C, an antioxidant which can prevent cellular damage that leads to cancer. Watermelons, carrots, and red peppers also contain these substances, but in lesser quantities. It is concentrated by cooking tomatoes. Scientists in Israel have shown that lycopene can kill mouth cancer cells. An increased intake of lycopene has already been linked to a reduced risk of breast, prostate, pancreas and colorectal cancer. (Note: Recent studies indicate that for proper absorption, the body also needs some oil along with lycopene.)

Tumeric (curcuma longa), a member of the ginger family, is believed to have medicinal properties because it inhibits production of the inflammation-related enzyme cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2), levels of which are abnormally high in certain inflammatory diseases and cancers, especially bowel and colon cancer. In fact, a pharmaceutical company Phytopharm in the UK hopes to introduce a natural product, P54, that contains certain volatile oils, which greatly increase the potency of the turmeric spice.

Great foods for beautiful skin By Suze Mae

September 6th, 2008

Our skin endures tremendous amount of attacks from harmful UV rays, stress, toxic food, dirt, smoke and other damaging factors everyday. Fortunately, there are natural ways to reverse it by eating skin boosting foods.

Fish and Nuts

Salmon, Walnuts, Canola Oil, and Flax Seed help produce healthy oils that are needed to nourish and protect the skin after harsh chemical soaps we use to cleanse our skin. Putting Extra Virgin Olive Oil can also aid our oil producing glands to function normally so that our skin can fight back decay and fully restore itself.

Berries

Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and plums are full of terrific antioxidants, perfect to combat aging and fine lines/wrinkles. In ancient Greek mythology, ambrosia is sometimes the food, sometimes the drink, of the gods, often depicted as conferring ageless immortality upon whomever consumes it. We are convinced that we have found the Ambrosia salad you’ve all been looking for.

Low Fat Dairy Products

One the most important components of skin health is vitamin A. One of the best places to get it is low-fat dairy products. In fact, experts say that the health of our skin cells is dependent on dietary vitamin A.

Are all types of cholesterols bad? By rose220

September 6th, 2008

Nutritionists would often say that poor eating habits and lack of exercise may produce high levels of cholesterols that may be damaging to the body. However, not all cholesterols in food are bad. Here are some insights for you.

LDL (Bad) Cholesterol
When too much LDL (bad) cholesterol circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up in the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. Together with other substances, it can form plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can narrow the arteries and make them less flexible. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, heart attack or stroke can result.

HDL (good) Cholesterol
About one-fourth to one-third of blood cholesterol is carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL cholesterol is known as “good” cholesterol, because high levels of HDL seem to protect against heart attack. Low levels of HDL (less than 40 mg/dL) also increase the risk of heart disease. Medical experts think that HDL tends to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it’s passed from the body. Some experts believe that HDL removes excess cholesterol from arterial plaque, slowing its buildup.

Trick or Treat Workout Game By dailyyummy

October 17th, 2007

Tired of sitting on your butt while you wait for Trick or Treaters on Halloween. Try this Workout Game for a size.

Hungry Girl’s Trick or Treat Workout Game

The Rules: Each time you see a trick-or-treater dressed in a particular costume, do the corresponding exercise after you close the door. Remember, you have to finish before the doorbell rings again, so no dawdling. If a large group shows up, limit your exercises to just 2 to 3 at a time. We don’t want you passing out!

HG Tip! As with any exercise, you may want to consult a doctor first. If it’s a busy night, take a break when you need to. And feel free to swap the exercises listed here with ones you feel most comfortable with.

Ghost: 10 jumping jacks

Witch: Run in place for 30 seconds

Fairy/Butterfly/Anything with wings: Dance freeform for two minutes or till the doorbell rings again

Princess: Reach hands toward the ceiling, then toward toes (10 times)

Monster: “Invisible jump-rope” for 30 seconds (pretend you’re jumping rope, just without the rope)

TV/Movie Character: 10 sit-ups or crunches

Curves New Cereal Bar By dailyyummy

October 17th, 2007

I got ahold of the new Curves Cereal Chocolate Peanut Butter Bar. It’s a fairly good size snack with an unmistakably sweet honey smell upon opening the package. The bar is sticky but not too sticky that it sticks annoyingly to your teeth. It’s good sticky. The chocolate tastes delectable for a diet bar and the peanut butter after taste is satisfying. Overall, bravo!

I definitely like the way that the bar looks, it is certainly appetizing and yummylicious. I would recommend a try if you love Nature Valley’s Fruit and Nuts Bar. Curve’s bar is a slightly more decadent piece of goody that below Trail Mix.

The best part about Curves Bar is that they are giving away free samples at their site. So try it for yourself!

Click here

6 Winter Diet Mantras By dailyyummy

October 12th, 2007

1. Re-think your snacks. Don’t go near the junk food aisle in the supermarket. Junk food is very high in carbohydrates. Avoid going to the grocery store when you are hungry.
2. Steer clear of carbohydrates that put on weight without giving you any nutritive benefit. The worst offenders are potato chips, chocolate bars, soft drinks, flour, cookies, ice cream or any other sweets that’s very high in sugar. Your body is a temple. Keep repeating that!
3. To lose weight you have to be prepared to spend more time cooking.
4. The enemy of diet is hunger. it’s when you feel hungry that you reach for the quick fix like french fries, chocolate bars, cookies. Prevent hunger by eating enough food at each meal to satisfy yourself. Don’t eat until you can eat no more, but eat enough to last you until the next meal.
5. Be prepared. Take some fruits to work with you, or a few slices of ham and tomato. Eat these if the craving for a “little something” comes upon you. Little somethings are better than little nothings.
6. Tell your friends that you are dieting. A group support will help to motivate you to the end!