3/24/16

12 Reasons Why Your Body Will Love The Spice of Life (Turmeric)

Turmeric or Curcumin is known as the Spice of Life.  Turmeric offers a wide variety of natural health benefits that the body will love; read on for the top 12 reasons why.  Research Verified provides a high quality extract that includes 1000mg per serving (2 capsules) with 95% curcumin in each.  Their product contains the same properties and formulation used in the clinical study and according to Dr. Oz's recommendations. There are no extra ingredients, and their Turmeric Curcumin is 100% Pure. This is a quality product offering high amounts of curcumin per serving, something that is hard to find.  Read on to find out why you should be taking this daily.


12-reasons-why-body-will-love-spice-of-life-turmeric
12 Reasons Why Your Body Will Love The Spice of Life (Turmeric)
  1. Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory.  PubMed.com states, "clinical trials indicate curcumin may have potential as a therapeutic agent in diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, arthritis, and chronic anterior uveitis, as well as certain types of cancer.
  2.  Turmeric reduces redness and skin irritations.
  3. Turmeric increases the anti-biotic capabilities of the body.  The main reason antioxidants are so beneficial, is that they protect our bodies from free radicals.
  4. Turmeric boosts brain activity keeping it sharp and alert fighting against many age related brain diseases.  Improves the oxygen intake of the brain.
  5. Turmeric Lowers risk of heart disease
  6. Turmeric can treat and prevent various cancers such as colon cancer, bladder and lung cancer by interfering with molecular pathways that are involved with the development, growth, and spread of cancer cells.  Also benefits those taking chemotherapy by boosting the effectiveness.
  7. Turmeric may be useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Increases memory function.
  8. Turmeric helps with those suffering with arthritis or other joint pain, often working better than most prescribed medications for the same. 
  9. Turmeric helps those suffering with depression
  10. Turmeric helps against aging and age related diseases such as diabetes, 
  11. Protects the liver
  12. Turmeric is safer to take than Ibuprofen, Prozac, Aspirn, Metformin, Lipitor, Steroids, Inflammatory bowel-disease drugs, Chemotherapy, Arthritis Medications Anticoagulants.
research-verified-turmeric-curcumin
#Turmeric

I wish the knowledge of Turmeric Curcumin was around as readily as it is today 20 + years ago.  My father died from colon cancer, and my mother died from complications of Alzheimer's disease.  What a difference turmeric may have had in their life.

For me personally, I like taking turmeric as a pain reliever.  I try to keep my body and mind fit, but sometimes I just overdo it.  One of the biggest reasons why I like taking Turmeric is that I am very allergic to Ibuprofen, and get sick to my stomach on a half dose of aspirin.  I have no need for prescription meds, and haven't needed pain relievers for a long time.  But like I've mentioned in other posts, we are gearing up for a move, and my back is getting over worked.  

I like that I can take just 1 capsule of Research Verified Turmeric Curcumin on an empty stomach and not suffer any ill effects.  I notice results of pain relief under 30 minutes.  I've even taken this at dinner time, and still notice positive results in under 30 minutes.  That's pretty good in my eyes.  When combined with black pepper, turmeric seems to work faster.  Sometimes, I will empty a capsule into a bowl of soup, add some black pepper and take it this way.  It's spicy, but I like it.



turmeric-curcumin
Research Verified Turmeric
One of the unexpected benefits I personally have discovered is that the nights I take Turmeric, I sleep a whole lot better.  My sleep is restful, relaxing, and I feel invigorated the next day.

There are some pre-cautions I list below to be aware of if you decide you want better health naturally by taking turmeric on a daily basis.
  • Heart burn
  • Indigestion
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Increased risk of bleeding
  • Lowered Blood Pressure
Overall, I am impressed with Research Verified Turmeric Curcumin.  I like the high 1000 mg per serving, and each serving has 95% curcumin.  I highly recommend this product.  I did receive this product for free in exchange for my honest opinion.  I'm sold on Turmeric.

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Research Verified Turmeric Curcumin - 60 Capsules - 1 Month Supply - Standardized to 95% - Natural Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxydant, Pain Relief and Anti-Depressant - 100% Money Back Guarantee!




3/21/16

Beauty from the Inside Out

Beauty from the inside out is so obtainable with Beauty Infusion by NeoCell.  This is an all natural solution that leads to a more youthful and radiant beautiful body.  Over the years, collagen levels in our body leave it sagging, gives us brittle nails, and makes our hair thin out.  Other symptoms of lack of collagen include easy bruising, frequent muscle ache, stiff and painful joints, blood vessel issues, early destruction of teeth and loosening of teeth in gums. Honestly, who wants that?  But it does happen.  

NeoCell has provided us with a remarkable solution to regain our beauty, hydrate our skin and provide antioxidant power by nourishing it from the inside out.  Beauty Infusion is a refreshing drink mix that comes in 3 delicious flavors. Cranberry Splash, Appletini, and Tangerine Twist.  
beauty-from-the-inside-out
#Neocell Beauty Infusion Cranberry Splash
Each container provides a 30 day supply.  Each scoop delivers 6000 MG of collagen Type 1 & 3 for firm, smooth skin, strong hair and nails; 50 MG of Hyaluronic Acid for skin hydration and renewal, 3000 MCG of Biotin for support of strong hair and nail growth; Alpha Lipoic Acid & Vitamin C for protection from free radical damage and enhancement of collagen formation.

Learn more about the benefits of Type 1 & 3 collagen by NeoCell in this post here. 

Learn more about the benefits of Hyaluronic Acid by NeoCell in this post here.

Like I've mentioned before, we are gearing up for another move.  We've been packing, boxing, and having a blast. Really!  This is a move we are looking forward too.  Needless to say, I have certainly been neglecting my body, and believe me, my nails and hair have certainly let me know. And the easy bruising now has an explanation....lack of collagen. Oh, yeah, and I have developed a more wrinkly face. Ugh! Something had to be done, and done real fast.  I want to look youthful and healthy when we move.  So while we are in a period of limbo right now, it was time to take time and reclaim my healthy body. NeoCell Beauty Infusion to the Rescue! 

NeoCell Laboratories Collagen Drink Mix - Beauty Infusion - Cranberry Splash - 11.64 oz - Gluten Free-Dairy Free-Yeast Free-Wheat Free-

I typically would rather just swallow a capsule than chew something or swallow a flavored drink.  Too many nasties from the past.  But I decided to give the Cranberry Splash a try. WOW! This beauty infusion is full of flavor.  I was so extremely impressed. I look forward to my tasty daily drink of health.

beauty-infusion-neocell
1 Scoop Daily Contains
6000 MG Collagen,
50 MG Hyaluronic Acid
3000 MCG Biotin
+ Vitamin C & Alpha Lipoic Acid
I've been drinking this 5 days a week for the last two weeks.  I have seen my fingernails grow approximately an 1/8 of an inch during this time.  That's quite impressive for me. Especially since up to that point, my fingernails were breaking daily, and definitely not growing. Not only that, but the ridges in my nails have disappeared.  In addition when I trimmed my nails last night, I couldn't believe how thick they were.  Certainly a vast improvement from the two weeks previous.

My hair feels thicker from the previous two weeks, and when I washed my hair this week, I didn't have near as much hair loss as I have had all year long.  

In just this short time I've been drinking the Cranberry Splash Beauty Infusion, I honestly can't say I've seen an improvement in my wrinkles on my face going away, but they haven't gotten any worse. (It's still only 10 days I've been drinking the Beauty Insusion though.) My skin on my hands have tightened up, and even though they weren't wrinkly, they certainly were not supple and smooth. That has improved. One would think with all the hand exercises I get by typing so much during the day, that would keep them firm. LOL. In spite of this, I firmly believe I will see improvement over the course of time, based on how quickly I experienced positive results for nails and hair.
you-are-beautiful-inside-and-out

The only downside to this marvelous product is when I mix my scoop of Beauty Infusion in my glass of water, it doesn't dissolve completely.  It sometimes makes me cough if I don't stir it when I get near the bottom of the glass of drink.  I have found that the longer I let it the powder sit in the glass after the initial blending, it dissolves better.  I have read other's reviews where they add this to smoothies, and don't have that issue of it not completely dissolving.  I haven't let this deter me from taking the drink.  I like the benefits too much.

I did receive this product for free in exchange for my honest opinion.  In any case, I highly recommend NeoCell's Cranberry Splash Beauty Infusion.  Get yours today and start your beauty transformation from the inside out. I'm confident you will love the fast results. 

NeoCell Beauty Infusion Cranberry Cocktail -- 11.64 oz (330 G)

Neocell Beauty Infusion Appletini

Neocell Beauty Infusion Refreshing Collagen Drink Mix Supplement, Tangerine Twist

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3/18/16

9 Ingredients To Make Your Breakfast More Healthy

Having a healthier breakfast is as easy as adding any or all of these 9 ingredients. There are so many wonderful healthy consumables to put into your body to maintain or regain good health. I have found that adding these ingredients to my daily work week breakfast cereal is a great way to get a lot in all at once. I eat a variety of hot cereals during the week. I eat oatmeal, oat bran, corn meal, 9 grain cereal, and home made granola using a 6 way rolled grain. Below I have listed some of those healthy items I eat by putting them in my morning cereal. I'm sure you can find other healthy items to include in your morning routine as well.  Here's to a Healthier Breakfast!


flax-seed
1. Flax Seeds: 


  • (Ground – if you don’t grind them, they don’t produce the many benefits listed below. I just grind them in my blender. Once ground, store in fridge.) 
  • Walnuts and fish are excellent sources of omega-3s, but so are flaxseeds. The recommended daily intake (RDI) of omega-3s is 1.1 grams a day, and one tablespoon of flaxseed offers 1.8 grams. (We use 2 Tablespoons daily. Can take up to 5 Tablespoons daily) 
  • The omega-3s in flaxseed can help reduce the inflammation that leads to conditions such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine headaches, and osteoporosis.
  • Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is one kind of omega-3s that is found in flaxseeds, and this fat helps promote bone health.
  • Flaxseed is known to lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, and it may lower blood pressure — all essential elements to having a healthy heart.
  • Whole flaxseeds are great sources of fiber. One tablespoon contains three grams of fiber, so they can help prevent constipation.
  • Lignans, the fibers found in flaxseed, promote regular digestion and are thought to have a role in breast cancer prevention.
  • Sprinkle ground flaxseed on your cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, salad, sandwiches, pancakes and smoothies. We also like it on ice cream; provides a nice nutty flavor. 
  • Use ground flaxseed as an egg substitute in baked goods. Just mix one teaspoon of ground flaxseed and 1/4 cup of water for every egg to be replaced.



cinnamon

2. Cinnamon: 

  • Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol. (We take up to 2 teaspoons daily.)
  • Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.
  • In some studies, cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.
  • In a study published by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland, cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.
  • It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.
  • In a study at Copenhagen University, patients given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning before breakfast had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month. 
  • When added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative. 
  • One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.
  • Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices
  • Cinnamon is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium



coconut

3. Shredded Coconut: 

  • Shredded coconut is made by mechanically breaking down the copra, the dried kernel of the fruit. Normally served dried, shredded coconut maintains all of the fiber and the macro-nutrients present in its fresh form; this includes a high content of saturated fat and the highly-prized medium-chain fatty acids, only found in such concentrations in the coconut. 
  • The unusual nutritional make-up of the coconut results in a range of unusual benefits, from improved cardiovascular health to positive effects on the fat-burning process
Cardiovascular Health 
  • Shredded coconut may aid the health of the heart due to the coconut's oil content, which totals 60 percent of the dry weight. Although the reputation of saturated fats remains poor in the eyes of the public, coconut oil has shown to aid cardiovascular health in a range of experiments. 
  • Researchers from the Weston A. Price Foundation report how the consumption of coconut products can lower overall cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and lipoprotein(a), all biomarkers linked with higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. The same academics describe how the polyphenol content in the oil acts to limit oxidation of LDL cholesterol, itself an important step in the development of arteriosclerosis. The medium-chain fatty acids again take center stage in this regard. 
  • When it is shredded, coconut has less than three percent moisture content and sixty-eight percent oil. It was previously thought this fruit's oil was high in saturated fat, but after studies were conducted that opinion was reversed. It is now considered heart healthy. Its powerful antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that contribute to the buildup of LDL (bad cholesterol). Its healthy fats help the body produce HDL, (good cholesterol). 
Fat Burning 
  • The oil content of shredded coconut appears responsible for the fat-burning effects witnessed by doctors. Dr. Bruce Fife, the author of "The Coconut Oil Miracle," explains how the oil provides a wealth of medium-chain fatty acids that can enhance the fat-burning process in the body. The physician describes how, unlike other fats, these unique compounds travel directly from the intestines to the liver for immediate oxidation. They also burn more easily than other fats, causing an increase in both fat oxidation and the overall metabolic rate. 
Antimicrobial 
  • Those suffering from chronic infections may also benefit from eating shredded coconut, due to the anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties it contains. The oil is 48% percent lauric acid. This is a fatty acid that stirs up immunity. The body converts the lauric acid into a compound, monolaurin, which keeps viruses and bacteria from compromising healthy cells. This helps reduce heart disease. 
Bone Strength and Weight Loss
  • It contains sterols, which mimic the action of progesterone, (the hormone for bone strength). The oil nourishes the pancreas, so the enzymes can absorb bone fortifying minerals like calcium. It contains medium chain fatty acids, which is a unique fat that goes straight to the liver and is instantly used for fuel. This boosts the metabolic rate which speeds up weight loss and energy levels.  Shredded coconut is a source of unrefined coconut oil, which offers such health benefits as increasing your metabolism rate and keeping your hormones balanced. 
 Coconut Fights Disease
  • The fruit is helpful for the prevention and/or treatment of viral infections such as influenza and the measles as well as yeast infections such as thrush. It can also help relieve arthritis, control diabetes, and prevent osteoporosis. 
Coconut Adds Fiber 
  • Adding shredded coconut to food is a good way to get more fiber in your diet, which helps you feel fuller while eating less and supports regularity. 
Coconut Helps Skin 
  • All coconut products are good for your skin. They fight blemishes such as acne and age spots, and help the skin rejuvenate itself. They can even protect against skin cancer. 





coconut-oil


4. Coconut Oil:


Coconut oil is good for weight loss, hair care, skin care, stress relief, maintaining cholesterol levels, increased immunity, proper digestion and metabolism, relief from kidney problems, heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV and cancer, dental care, and bone strength.


3 – 4 tablespoons of unrefined coconut oil can help with weight loss. Try to have at least 1 tablespoon every morning. This oil produces energy instead of being stored as fat. It gives you a more “full” feeling after eating so you tend to eat less as well.


To make your hair shine, massage coconut oil on your scalp. This helps repair damaged hair, prevent dandruff, and helps with lice issues. 


Coconut oil helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections. Just rub into your skin as often as necessary. It is a great anti-aging product to help reduce wrinkles. 


Got IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or other digestive problems? How about bad bacteria or parasites? Include coconut oil in your daily routine to get rid of those problems. 


Some good ways to get that oil in your body---add it to your daily hot cereal, use it in place of butter or margarine on toast, mix it in your main dinner entrees, make a salad dressing with it. Note: Coconut oil has a lower threshold for melting than some oils. Just heat it up a bit and it will liquefy.


5. Lecithin Granules:lecithin


• The recommended dose of lecithin granules is two teaspoons a day with meals.

 • Deficiency in this nutrient may help in the development of Huntington's chorea, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and cirrhosis of the liver in alcoholics. Used as a preventive measure, a diet rich in Choline may be protective against alcoholic damage.

 • Lecithin Granules: One tablespoon two to three times daily. Recommended therapeutic doses for lipid, neurologic (tardive dyskinesia), and psychiatric disorders is 12-35 grams.

 • Choline has resulted in a significant improvement in children who were seriously developmentally delayed. Lecithin is high in Choline.

 • Lecithin benefits your heart health by promoting healthy circulatory function and supporting the role of "good" HDL cholesterol levels in your bloodstream. 

• Lecithin also has an exceptionally high inositol content, which has been shown to enhance mood and support a positive mental outlook, among other health benefits. One tablespoon of lecithin granules daily not only contains about 1,000 milligrams (1 gram) of inositol, but also over 1,700 milligrams of phosphatidylcholine and over 2,000 milligrams of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid.

 • It's best to take lecithin in its granule form. You can add it to your favorite foods or mix it up in a shake. 

• Apart from the lecithin benefits for the heart and cardiovascular functions of the body, lecithin is also linked with preventing the onset of gallstones and improves the gallbladder function and health. 

 Treating problems or illnesses related to the functions of the brain such as Alzheimer's disease, amnesia and dementia are associated with soy lecithin benefits (soy lecithin is extracted as a by-product while processing soybean oil and is generally used as a natural emulsifier or stabilizer in various food applications).

Other Lecithin Benefits: 

• Other benefits of soy lecithin includes treatment of bipolar disorder, eczema (generic term for inflammatory conditions of the skin; particularly with vesiculation in the acute stages), fatty liver (hepatic steatosis) and liver disease. Apart from all these, extrapyramidal symptoms, anxiety and dry skin have also been known to be treatable by soy lecithin supplements.

 • Lecithin granules benefits show impressive results in improving cardiovascular health, liver and cell function. They are also beneficial for healthy skin and as said earlier, for treatment of gallstones and other medical conditions. 

• Think less-a-thin! Lecithin helps make you feel full and therefore eating less. It is important to take note of the fact that expecting or nursing mothers should seek professional advice, before including the supplement in their diet. However, some research reveals that intake of lecithin ensures healthy pregnancy and development in the infant. 

• According to some other studies, this product forms an important ingredient in breast enhancing supplements, as it is known to add to the proper functioning of breast cells. Health benefits of lecithin also involve the improvement of the quality and quantity of male semen. Consuming soy lecithin improves prostate secretions making it high in volume and amount.

• Another benefit of lecithin has been found to be related with healthy hair. Healthy hair growth is governed by the amount of protein in the hair. Lecithin benefits for hair mainly support and enhance the required amount of protein for hair growth. Thus lecithin not only maximizes hair growth, but also improves its texture making it strong and shiny.

 • 8 grams of lecithin granules sprinkled onto a fruit salad or blended in a smoothie will ensure that you are getting the benefits and not overdoing it. It’s preferable that you have the lecithin granules rather than the capsules, since the powdering of capsule ingredients usually compromises the quality of the product and reduces effectiveness.
6. Ginger:ginger

• Ginger is great for morning sickness and motion sickness. I personally have taken ginger root for motion sickness and know it really works. As for morning sickness, well…after 5 pregnancies, I’ve never experienced morning sickness. I’ve been blessed. 

 • Ginger is also great to take when you are bloated from over eating at your favorite buffet or restaurant. If you thought some of your food was not prepared exactly to correct temperature, you better take a ginger root capsule, or eat some ginger root slices immediately. It will help  and fight off food poisoning and bloating

 • Ginger helps with migraines and menstrual cramps. It’s a great pain reliever. To treat muscle pain, take 2 grams of either cooked or raw ginger daily.

 • Ginger boosts your immune system. It helps with colds, flu, and coughs. Ginger is also a great addition to prevent colon cancer and to help with ovarian cancer.

 • Less flatulence with Ginger use. Fresh ginger combined with cumin and coriander helps to break down high-protein foods such as meat and beans, and lessens the formation of uric acid in the body. With beans, it counters the problems of flatulence.

 • Ginger has the ability to lighten age spots while acting as an energy-booster in aromatherapy spa treatments. Because ginger is energizing and is believed to improve circulation, it is often used in cellulite-reducing treatments. 

• A minimum dose would be 250mg four times daily (with meals and bedtime). If you like the crystallized ginger, one cube is probably 1000 mg of ginger, and one or two a day would be a good dose. This is a very safe herb with virtually no toxicity or interaction with drugs. I personally have about 1/2 teaspoon with my hot cereal.

7. Honey: honey 

Nature’s Energy Booster 

The benefits of honey go beyond its great taste. A great natural source of carbohydrates which provide strength and energy to our bodies, honey is known for its effectiveness in instantly boosting the performance, endurance and reduce muscle fatigue of athletes. Its natural fruit sugars play an important role in preventing fatigue during exercise. The glucose in honey is absorbed by the body quickly and gives an immediate energy boost, while the fructose is absorbed more slowly providing sustained energy. It is known that honey has also been found to keep levels of blood sugar fairly constant compared to other types of sugar. 

So, to experience these health benefits of honey, here are a few tips for you: 

1. Next time before you go for a workout, take a spoon of honey to enable you to go for the extra mile. 

2. If you are feeling low and lethargic in the morning, instead of reaching out for a can of carbonated energy drink , try honey. Spread it on hot toast or replace the sugar in your tea with it for a refreshing surge of energy.

 3. If your kids are finding hard to cope with the physical strain from the buzzing activities at school, prepare them some sandwiches with honey, butter and ham to make sure they have enough energy to sustain through the day. My kids are delighted when they see me prepare warm honey water in their bottles. They couldn't care a bit about the health benefits of honey, but simply love the taste of it! 

Immunity System Builder 

Amongst the many health benefits of honey it can be a powerful immune system booster. Honey’s antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties can help improve digestive system and help you stay healthy and fight disease

Start every brand new day with this cleansing tonic if you want to see this health benefit of honey: before breakfast, mix a spoonful of honey and lemon juice from half a lemon into a cup of warm water and drink it.

Honey is Anti-Cancer! Honey does not cure cancer but what many people don't think enough of or have overlooked is - honey possesses carcinogen-preventing and anti-tumour properties! Read: Honey is Anti-Cancer! 

Honey Remedy for Ailments Using Honey

FOR CUTS AND BURNS: For thousands of years, honey has been recognized as one of the most natural home remedies to treat a wide range of ailments and complaints including yeast infection , athlete foot , and arthritis pain. Its antiseptic properties inhibits the growth of certain bacteria and helps keep external wounds clean and free from infection.

Honey has been used as a natural cure in first aid treatment for wounds, burns and cuts as it is able to absorb moisture from the air and promote healing. Its antibacterial properties prevent infection and functions as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing both swelling and pain, and even scarring. It is widely believed that UMF Manuka is the preferred honey for wound dressing due to its strong antibacterial property. 

FOR HANGOVERS: When you get a hangover from drinking too much alcohol, combat its effects by applying honey remedy. Honey is gentle on the stomach and contains a mix of natural sugars such fructose which is known to speed up the oxidation of alcohol by the liver, acting as a 'sobering' agent. Follow this recipe: 15ml of liquid honey with 80ml of orange juice and 70ml of natural yogurt. Blend them together until smooth. 

FOR SORE THROATS: One of the better known health benefits of honey is that it is able to help treat sore throats. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, honey not only soothes throats but can also kill certain bacteria that causes the infection. Professional singers commonly use honey to soothe their throats before performances. The Chinese believe that excess "heatiness" in the body causes sore throat and taking honey drink can be helpful. Direction: Take a spoonful of honey to soothe the inflammation or gargle with a mixture of two tablespoons of honey, four tablespoons of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. 

FOR SLEEPLESSNESS: Unable to sleep? Use the famous Milk and Honey Remedy. Take a glass of hot milk with a teaspoon of honey to calm the soul and induce sleep. Or, add 1 or 2 teaspoons of honey to a cup of chamomile tea and sip.

8. Oatmeal:
oats












• Over 40 studies show that eating oatmeal may help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. According to Quaker, all it takes is 3/4 cup of oatmeal each day to help lower cholesterol. The soluble fiber in oats helps remove LDL or "bad" cholesterol, while maintaining the good cholesterol that your body needs. 

• The soluble fiber in oatmeal absorbs a considerable amount of water which significantly slows down your digestive process. This result is that you'll feel full longer, i.e. oatmeal can help you control your weight.

 • New research suggests that eating oatmeal may reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes. In fact, the American Diabetes Association already recommends that people with diabetes eat grains like oats. The soluble fiber in these foods help to control blood glucose levels.

 • With the exception of certain flavored varieties, the oats found in your grocery store are 100% natural. If you look at the ingredients on a canister of rolled oats, you will usually see only one ingredient... rolled oats.

 • According to recent studies, a diet that includes oatmeal may help reduce high blood pressure. The reduction is linked to the increase in soluble fiber provided by oatmeal. Oats contain more soluble fiber than whole wheat, rice or corn. 

• Oatmeal contains a wide array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and is a good source of protein, complex carbohydrates and iron.

 • The fiber and other nutrients found in oatmeal may actually reduce the risk for certain cancers.

 • Oatmeal is quick and convenient. Every type of oatmeal can be prepared in a microwave oven. Even when cooked on the stovetop, both old-fashioned and quick oats can usually be made in less than 10 minutes. And what about instant oatmeal… a hot breakfast in under a minute... incredible! 

• Oatmeal can be absolutely delicious! Whether instant, cooked on the stove or baked in the oven, the combination of flavors you can fit into a serving of oatmeal is limited only by the imagination.

9. Oatbran:oatbran 

One very important point about OAT BRAN is how kind it is to one's digestive system. It is much more gentle than wheat bran which can cause bloating and very acid stomach. 

Health Benefits of Oatbran: 

Cardiovascular Disease: 

1. Soluble fiber from oats lowers cholesterol levels in the blood. Consuming 3 g of soluble fiber from oat products per day (provided by three 28 g servings of oatmeal or one large bowl of oat bran cereal) has been shown to decrease total cholesterol by approximately 
1.8. It is estimated that a 1 reduction in total cholesterol could lower the incidence of coronary heart disease by around 

2. Some studies suggest that oat consumption may reduce blood pressure.



3/16/16

Tuna Melts

Tuna Melts Recipe
My kids detested tuna sandwiches growing up until I came up with tuna melts. I felt like they needed the omega 3's which tuna provides. It's basically an open face grilled cheese sandwich with tuna.  My kids don't like the extra slice of bread on sandwiches.  We've mixed up the meats to include ham or bologna when they were young, but their favorite was always a tuna melt.  It made a great after school snack.  Even now that they are grown, most of them still eat tuna melts.  Even my husband will ask for them once in a while.
1 can tuna
1/3 to 1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/8 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. dried parsley flakes
Any other seasonings you desire
Pepper Jack Cheese (or your favorite)
Bread
Mix up the tuna, mayonnaise and seasonings. Spoon on top of bread. Top with cheese. Broil on High until cheese has melted. A great accompaniment to your favorite bowl of soup.
Tuna Melt
Tuna Melt
What's your favorite way to eat tuna?

3/14/16

Spinach Salad with Mandarin Oranges

Spring is the perfect time to serve Spinach Salad with Mandarin Oranges.  It's so light, refreshing, and highly nutritious.  This would be a super salad to serve right after Easter and wondering what to do with all those boiled eggs.  It's also a great accompaniment to the 2 Ingredient BBQ Ribs Recipe found here.  This is one of my top favorite salads.  Even my in-laws, who despise spinach, will eat this, and go back for seconds.  Now that's saying something.

SPINACH SALAD WITH DRESSING
spinach-mandarin-salad
1 lb. fresh spinach
1 sm. pkg. slivered almonds
Chopped, boiled eggs
Broken up bacon pieces
2 sm. cans mandarin oranges
Fresh mushrooms
Grated cheddar cheese


DRESSING:
1/3 c. sugar
1/3 c. vinegar
1 tsp. celery salt
1 c. salad oil
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. garlic salt

Mix dressing in blender until foamy. Pour over salad just before serving. Serves 8.

Be sure to serve using these awesome spring colored salad tongs. 

3/10/16

Best Tasting 2 ingredient BBQ Ribs Cooked in Crockpot

Hands down this is the absolute best tasting 2 ingredient BBQ ribs cooked in a crockpot ever. The aroma from these ribs is sensational.  
Bar-B-Qued Ribs Recipe
I place thawed country style ribs in the crockpot (ingredient #1)  and 1 - 18 oz. bottle of BBQ sauce (ingredient #2) over top. I cook on high for about 8-10 hours. These are also very tender and moist. The meat falls off the bones. Everyone who trys them (even those who do not like BBQ) do like these ribs. The ribs are great served with rice, a salad and veggies. The Spinach and Mandarin Orange Salad is perfect for this meal.  
BBQ Ribs
BBQ Ribs

3/9/16

No More Excuses ~ Why You Should Drink More Hot Chocolate

Are you one of those people looking for another great excuse to eat chocolate, or to sip on another cup of hot chocolate?  

Well, I am.  I love dark chocolate especially.  My husband's favorite is white chocolate, but I'm slowly converting him over to the dark side.  The darker the better.  Read on to discover why you should drink more hot chocolate without excuses.

why-you-should-drink-more-hot-chocolate

Years ago I recall going through a Farmer's Market in WA state.  There was a vendor there that was serving all kinds of garlic flavored dips.  He said, "Oh, don't worry about the garlic smell on your breath from my dips.  Just go 3 doors down and make sure you taste the dark chocolate samples and the garlic smell will disappear."  Sounded like a plan to me.  Now, you have to understand one thing. I Hate garlic. Period.  But I also know of the tremendous health benefits one can get from eating 1 fresh clove of garlic daily.  So I do, but I still don't like it. Well, we went 3 doors down, sampled the darkest of dark chocolate, loved it, and tested out the garlic guy's theory.  Sure enough.  It really works.  So each day after eating our 1 clove of fresh garlic daily, we top it off with a few dark chocolate covered almonds, and wahlah, no more garlic breath.

chocolate-is-the-answer-who-cares-what-the-question-is

Recently a Harvard Medical School study showed that drinking two or more cups of cocoa daily can improve one's memory.  60 people with the average age of 73, were given 2 cups of cocoa a day for 30 consecutive days.  At the end of the study all but 5 showed improved blow flow to the brain and significant improvement with their memory.  Another study shows how a certain cocoa extract called Lavado actively helps fight Alzheimer's disease.  You can read more here.
hot-chocolate-makes-me-happy
Another recent study showed how cocoa can aid in weight loss.  Cocoa has the ability to boost endorphins, helps brain function and puts one in a more positive mood.  I can certainly attest to both of these. Despite the over eating of the calculated servings on our dark chocolate almonds, my husband and I are losing weight.  When we feel very anxious, upset, frustrated etc., we will eat 5-10 of these delicious dark chocolate covered almonds, are moods are nearly 100% more positive and happier.  More information can be found here.  In addition, cocoa has been helpful in reducing blood pressure, benefiting the heart and vascular function.  Click here for info.

keep-calm-and-drink-hot-chocolate

Cocoa is loaded with minerals such as iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, copper and zinc.  It has more antioxidants than red wine per same serving size.  It is almost twice that of red wine, and 2-3 times stronger than green tea, and 5-7 times stronger than black tea.  When purchasing cocoa powder, try to avoid those that have undergone Dutch Processing.  That takes all the good stuff out.

If you are looking for an excuse to drink more hot chocolate, made from the dark cocoa powder, then here you have it.  From the above to other benefits such as strengthening teeth, being kind to diabetics, preventing cancer, protecting skin, then stop looking for excuses to not drink it, because now you have many reason to drink a cup or two of hot chocolate a day.

no-more-excuses-drink-more-hot-chocolate

One way to help increase the health benefits of your everyday hot chocolate mix, add cacao powder, (in it's raw form) or cacao nibs.  What we like to do is buy the high content cacao chocolate bars and add a square to our regular hot chocolate as it is heating up.  You can find our hot chocolate mix here.
We especially love drinking them out of these Serafino glasses by Ozeri.  They are so perfect, as they don't burn our hands, look awesome, and pretty much unbreakable, but looks and feels like glass.

ozeri-serafino-double-wall-insulated-beverage-glasses

3/8/16

Tastiest Carrot Cake Recipe Including Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Carrot Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

This is by far the tastiest carrot cake recipe I have ever had, including the cream cheese frosting recipe.
Carrot Cake is my husband's all time favorite dessert. There are certain restaurants he gets this at each time we go. He also gets one for each birthday.
Cake Recipe
• 1-3/4 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil (I use 1/4 cup oil and 1/2 cup applesauce)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1-1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups lightly packed shredded carrots
• 1 can (8 ounces) pineapple tidbits, drained
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts (I usually skip the walnuts and add raisins instead.)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 13x9-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round pans. In a mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, oil, and vanilla just until combined. At medium speed, beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda. Add the carrots, pineapple, and nuts. Stir just until combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Remove from the oven, place onto a rack, and let cool.
Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
• 6 ounces (2 small packages) softened cream cheese (I usually use 8 oz. and add more powdered sugar)
• 6 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 teaspoon minced orange peel (optional)
• 2 to 2-1/4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
For frosting: Combine all ingredients and beat until smooth. Adjust the amount of confectioners' sugar, depending on how stiff you like the icing to be.
I slice the round cakes in half, and stack cake, frosting, etc. so it is a 4 layered cake.
Carrot Cake
Carrot Cake