Wellness Wednesday - Great Tips From Women's Magazines

I love reading the women's magazines- such as the ones stacked at the checkout counter at supermarkets. Headlines such as "Easiest Detox Ever",  "Drop 10 Pounds in 10 Days", "New Virus Fighter",  "Bye Bye Stress", and The Vitamin that turns flab into firm" surely attract my attention. 

I usually end up buying the magazine. Now I'm sharing some of the great ideas.

Powerful Anti Cancer Smoothie

This smoothie is based on the suggestions of Dr. Kristi Funk who is a cutting edge doctor/surgeon who has treated many celebrities including Angelina Jolie! Dr. Funk does extensive research on the effects of food and lifestyle on cancer!

She is convinced by research that she can reduce women's risks of getting cancer by diet and lifestyle.

Anti-Aging Morning Routine with Qi Gong

My Anti Aging Morning Routine

Looking for a way to energize and feel better?

Qi Gong is an easy age old exercise to help relax, center, ground, and rejuvenate - I find it much less strenuous to do than yoga or pilates and according to many sources a daily practice of Qi Gong provides amazing anti-aging benefits to the body.

According to the Monterey Bay Holistic Alliance ( see their article)  Qi Gong can help loosen muscles , build bone density, reduce stress, balance emotions, improve circulation, improve posture, flexibility, balance, memory, and help with better digestion. See all the videos below

Can Cinnamon Help You Lose Weight?

If you want to know why I always add cinnamon to my oatmeal, it's because cinnamon can encourage weight loss and is beneficial in helping regulate blood sugar.

I recently read an article about cinnamon and weight loss By carolyn_ on a blog called Healthy Eating. I have always known that spices are good for you, and that many spices are loaded with antioxidants and could be viewed as natures little pharmacy. Cinnamon, it turns out,  is certainly one of those spices. 

The following is a small excerpt from the article on Healthy Eating. There is additional information in the article that you might like to view.

"Cinnamon and Weight Loss

A recent report speaks to the health benefits of cinnamon as a miracle spice that has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant, as well as cancer-fighting and cholesterol-lowering effects. However, the amount of clinically controlled trials to corroborate cinnamon’s effect on humans is scant. 

One such study of Type 2 diabetes patients showed profound effects on the levels of fasting blood glucose and an added weight loss perk to boot. The double blind, randomized trial assigned participants to a three-grams-per-day cinnamon supplement for eight weeks.

 Though there were no significant differences in baseline characteristics, dietary intake and physical activity between groups, when compared to placebo, those who took the supplements saw a reduction in weight, BMI and body fat mass which all decreased significantly compared to baseline. Other study findings include:

• A ½ teaspoon of cinnamon a day can help lower LDL, your "bad" cholesterol.
• Cinnamon can be used as a natural preservative, inhibiting bacterial growth and food spoilage.
• Cinnamon is a natural cure for headaches and migraines, and may lower fever.
• The smell of cinnamon alone can boost your cognitive function and memory. "

The article also stated that 2 teaspoons of cinnamon has 2.5 gms of fiber, which is a great way to add fiber to foods. It's no secret that  fiber and weight loss go hand in hand.

Oatmeal and Cinnamon are a great team!

Cinnamon and blackberry Overnight Oatmeal

Cinnamon and Oatmeal Pancake

                                             Cinnamon and apples taste great together. 

Roasted Apples and Cinnamon

                     These cookies were posted by a  blogger friend who has a great website called  
                                                             Sweet and Healthy Living

Cinnamon Maple Spice Cookies ( vegan )                 

Don't stop with just cinnamon. All spices are full of potent antioxidants, and studies are finding that spices provide protective and health giving properties. Remember spices like turmeric, cumin, oregano, basil, etc.a little powerhouses and there are lots of ways to add these to foods. 

How to Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes

Studies reveal that you can reduce your risk of devleping diabetes by almost 30% by including nuts in your diet 5 days a week.

 While looking for nutritional information on nut butters and nuts, I found some very interesting information related to many degenerative diseases and how the good fats in nuts are very beneficial for blood sugar stabilization. Who knew? I usually avoid them thinking they are too fattening, but the study revealed that they not only do not make you gain wieght,  they can actually help lower your risk of developing diabetes.

I found the study posted on the website Flutters Nut Butters which has lots of interesting information and studies about the benefits and importance of nuts in the diet. The following information is taken directly from their website:

"Nuts can dramatically reduce your risks of developing type 2 diabetes according to a Nurse's Health Study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association on  Thursday, 28 November  2002

.Eating nuts substantially lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and does not lead to weight gain, a large-scale American study of women has found - a result that is likely to also apply to men.

                         

Eating five servings of 30 grams a week reduces a woman's risk of developing type 2 diabetes by almost a third, the research by Dr Rui Jiang from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston has found. The research appears in this week's Journal of the American Medical Association.

The results are based on an analysis of 83,818 women who took part in the Nurse's Health Study, one of the largest investigations into risk factors for major chronic diseases in women. Participants were a sub-group of the original 121,700 who had no history of diabetes, cardiovascular disease or cancer. They were tracked for 16 years.

"We were not really surprised by our findings," said Jiang. "Nuts contain lots of fat, but most fats in nuts are mono and polyunsaturated fats, which are good for insulin sensitivity and serum cholesterol. Nuts are also rich in antioxidant vitamins, minerals, plant protein and dietary fibre."  (quoted from Flutters Nut Butters website)

The researchers define a serving of nuts as 1 ounce, or 28 grams. Eating five servings a week reduces the risk by 27 per cent. Even eating a serving of nuts less than once a week reduces the relative risk by eight per cent, they said. Consuming between one and four serves a week results in a reduction of 16 per cent."

I used to eat some soaked almonds every morning. I don't know about you, but I'm putting nuts like almonds back in my diet.

Do you eat nuts? Why or why not? Did you know about this study?

Please leave a comment so I know you stopped by. Scroll down to the end of the post and click on
comments.

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Why You May Need More Vitamin D

Fifteen Facts You Probably Never Knew About Vitamin D and Sunlight Exposure:

by Mike Adams ( guest article) http://www.naturalnews.com/   

• Vitamin D is perhaps the single most underrated nutrient in the world of nutrition. That’s probably because it’s free: your body makes it when sunlight touches your skin.

• Vitamin D is produced by your skin in response to exposure to ultraviolet radiation from natural sunlight.

• The healing rays of natural sunlight (that generate vitamin D in your skin) cannot penetrate glass. So, you don’t generate vitamin D when sitting in your car or home
• It is nearly impossible to get adequate amounts of vitamin D from your diet. Sunlight exposure is the only reliable way to generate vitamin D in your own body.

• A person would have to drink ten tall glasses of vitamin D fortified milk each day just to get minimum levels of vitamin D into their diet.

• The further you live from the equator, the longer exposure you need to the sun in order to generate vitamin D. Canada, the UK and most U.S. states are far from the equator.

• People with dark skin pigmentation may need 20 - 30 times as much exposure to sunlight as fair skinned people to generate the same amount of vitamin D. That’s why prostate cancer is epidemic among black men -- it’s a simple, but widespread, sunlight deficiency.

• Sufficient levels of vitamin D are crucial for calcium absorption in your intestines. Without sufficient vitamin D, your body cannot absorb calcium, rendering calcium supplements useless.

• Chronic vitamin D deficiency cannot be reversed overnight: it takes months of vitamin D supplementation and sunlight exposure to rebuild the body’s bones and nervous system.

• Even weak sunscreens (SPF=8) block your body’s ability to generate vitamin D by 95%.
• It is impossible to generate too much vitamin D in your body from sunlight exposure: your body will self-regulate and only generate what it needs.
• If it hurts to press firmly on your sternum, you may be suffering from chronic vitamin D deficiency
• Vitamin D is “activated” in your body by your kidneys and liver before it can be used.

• Having kidney disease or liver damage can greatly impair your body’s ability to activate circulating vitamin D.

• Even though vitamin D is one of the most powerful healing chemicals in your body, your body makes it absolutely free.

Read more about Vitamin D


The information in this article was reprinted with permission from http://www.naturalnews.com/

Disclaimer:  The information about Vit D was not written by and is not necessarily the views of Gluten Free A-Z  Blog and is for educational purposes only. Always consult  your doctor before making any changes in your lifestyle.

Is Your Microwave Leaking Radiation ?

Healthy Lifestyle Awareness

Microwave ovens are sealed so they don't leak radiation. However, sometimes the seals break and that means that you may be exposed to unsafe levels of radiation every time you use your microwave and not even know it.

According to Bottom Line Magazine there is a simple test that you can do to see if your microwave is leaking.

Supposedly, a cell phone cannot recieve a signal in a microwave that is sealed properly.
So, here is the test.

• Take your cell phone and place it in your microwave.
• Close the door, but DO NOT turn the microwave on.
• Go to another phone and call your cell phone
• If it rings, it means the seal of your microwave is broken because signals are getting through
• If it doesn't ring, it means your microwave seal is tight and signals cannot get through.

Why do we care? Well , according to Bottom Line Magazine when you use a microwave with a broken seal, higher levels of radiation than acceptable are released in your kitchen and everyone who is in your kitchen is exposed.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for informational purposes only. Please try this test at your own risk. We are just passing on information that we read.

How To Reduce House Toxins

Where do toxins come from? 

Toxins come from the common cleaning Supplies that you buy in the supermarket. newly painted rooms give off toxins. New furniture is frequently treated with flame retardants and cleaners that give off toxins. 

New carpets give off toxins, as well as stained or sealed woods and plastics are treated with chemicals that release ongoing toxins into the air in your home or office which can be harmful to you and your family members, especially young children. 

In addition, copiers and ink can release toxic fumes into the air as well.. 

Common House Toxins and Their Sources

Benzene is released into the air from gasoline, inks, oils, paint, plastic and rubber. It is also used in some detergents and dyes.

"Benzene has long been known to irritate the skin and eyes. In addition, it has been shown to be mutagenic to bacterial cell culture and has shown embryotoxic activity and carcinogenicity in some tests. Evidence also exists that benzene may be a contributing factor in chromosomal aberrations and leukemia in humans. Repeated skin contact with benzene will cause drying, inflammation, blistering and dermatitis.

Acute inhalation of high levels of benzene has been reported to cause dizziness, weakness, euphoria, headache, nausea, blurred vision, respiratory diseases, tremors, irregular heartbeat, liver and kidney damage, paralysis and unconsciousness. In animal tests inhalation of benzene led to cataract formation and diseases of the blood and lymphatic systems. Chronic exposure to even relatively low levels causes headaches, loss of appetite, drowsiness, nervousness, psychological disturbances and diseases of the blood system, including anemia and bone marrow diseases." ( quoted from an article in a website called Zone 10 ) http://www.zone10.com/wpSource/wp-content/themes/lifestyle_10/images/zone10-headerF.jp

Formaldehyde is a very common toxin in most homes because it is used in urea-formaldehyde foam insulation and particle board or pressed-wood products. Grocery bags, waxed paper, tissues and paper towels are also frequently treated with urea formaldehyde resins. In addition, many common cleaning products contain formaldehyde.

"Formaldehyde irritates the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and throat. It is also a highly reactive chemical which combines with protein and can cause allergic contact dermatitis. The most widely reported symptoms from exposure to high levels of this chemical include irritation of the eyes and headaches. Until recently, the most serious of the diseases attributed to formaldehyde exposure was asthma.

However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently conducted research which has caused formaldehyde to be strongly suspected of causing a rare type of throat cancer in long-term occupants of mobile homes."( quoted from an article in a website called Zone 10 ) http://www.zone10.com/wpSource/wp-content/themes/lifestyle_10/images/zone10-headerF.jpg

Trichloroethylene is found in printing inks, paints, lacquers, varnishes and adhesives.

 Certain Varieties of House Plants can Help Remove Toxins from the Air!!

Although it may be difficult to avoid using some of these products, there are precautions you can take to help reduce your exposure to harmful toxins.

Scientific studies conducted by NASA and the Associate Landscape Contractors of America reveal that certain types of common house plants have been found to help absorb airborn toxins.

Results of the Plant Studies

information quoted from the following website: http://www.humeseeds.com/purify.htm

• "Gerbera daisy, Dracaena Marginata, Peace lily (Spathiphyllum), Dracaena 'Janet Craig' and Bamboo palm in order were the five most effective plants in removing Trichloroethylene concentrations from the air.
• Gerbera Daisy, pot Mum, Peace lily, Bamboo palm, Dracaena Warneckei, English ivy and Mother-in-law's tongue are the seven top houseplants for removing Benzene concentrations in the air.
• Bamboo palm, Dracaena 'Janet Craig', Mother-in-law's tongue, Dracaena Marginata, Peace lily, green Spider plant, and golden pathos are seven of the top plants for removing concentrations of Formaldehyde in the air.
• 15-20 are needed plants are needed to purify an 1,800 square foot house.    

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat disease. Always check with your doctor if you need medical treatment or before making any changes in diet or lifestyle.

Linked to: Waste Less Wednesday Blog Linky

13 Convincing Reasons to Eat Bananas

Healthy Tips Thursday
In addition to posting gluten free recipes, I will now be posting healthy tips every Thursday.

You may have heard the old saying that " an apple a day keeps the doctor away." Well apples are not the only healthy fruit. Bananas are highly nutritious as well.  Here are thirteen convincing reasons to start including bananas in your diet.

1. Tired?
Bananas provide an instant energy boost, along with B vitamins, minerals and fiber
When you need a quick energy boost, grab a banana. What could be easier? They do not require refrigeration, they are easy to digest and are readily available. Athletes know this secret and depend on bananas and their added nutrients to fuel their bodies for strenuous exercise. Just two bananas can provide enough energy to sustain a 90 minute workout. Their B vitamins nourish the nervous system, minerals aid muscles and fiber helps lower cholesterol and is a factor in healthy elimination. So, next time you need a quick energy boost, forget the granola bar and grab one of nature's snacks, a health giving satisfying banana.
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2. Stress lowers potassium levels; Bananas restore potassium and thus relieve stress:
Bananas contain a substantial amount of potassium, a vital mineral that helps regulate heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain, and normalizes the body's water balance. When we are stressed, the metabolic rate automatically increases and this in turn lowers the body's potassium levels. Bananas are rich in potassium and can help restore the body's potassium levels.
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3. Bananas can help lift your mood 
Bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin . Higher serotonin levels in the brain can help you relax, improve your mood and make your feel happier. Eating a banana can help raise your levels. So, when you are feeling blue, try a banana before you delve into the junk food. The nutritious low calorie banana may be just what you need to help lift your serotonin levels and thus your spirits.
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4.  High Blood Pressure?
Bananas to the rescue again. The banana is high in potassium and low in salt, making it an ideal for lowing blood pressure. The US Food and Drug Administration allows the banana industry to endorse bananas as a food that can help lower the risk of high blood pressure and stroke. This nutritious fruit is a power food when it comes to good health.
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5.  Constipation ?
Before resorting to a laxative, first try eating two large bananas. The bulk of the two may help restore bowel function. Better yet, to avoid constipation, try make eating bananas part of your daily routine. Their high fiber content may help keep you regulated.
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6  Heartburn?
The natural anti-acid type properties in a banana may help relieve your heartburn. Why suffer? Try a banana for natural relief.
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7.  Morning sickness?
Bananas have long been known for their soothing effects on eliminating morning sickness. Eating bananas between meals helps keep the blood sugar up and thus may lower the incidence of morning sickness.
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8.  Hangover?
Make a banana smoothie using bananas, milk, and honey . This smoothie helps coat the stomach, re-hydrate the body, and balance blood sugar levels. Many say it works quickly and gives great relief.
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9. Ulcers?
Bananas are the only raw fruit that can usually be eaten without distress for those with severe cases. Its soft texture and smoothness makes it an ideal food for intestinal disorders. It is excellent for coating the lining of the stomach which helps reduce irritation and neutralizes acidity.
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10.Warts?
It might be an old wive's tail , but they say the relief is in the peel. Many people say that by wrapping the inside of the banana peel over the wart and securing it in place with tape, they are able to get rid of the wart. However, use bananas that are somewhat green. The active healing compounds diminish as the banana ripens. If you wan to try it, soak the wart in warm water allowing the wart to soften. Rough the wart with an Emory board so it is better exposed to the banana peel. Cover the wart with the inside of fresh peel and secure in place with a large bandage. My nephew tried it and said it worked! Those who have used it say it takes at least 3-5 treatments but within 2 weeks their wart disappeared. ( Of course check with your doctor before trying this)

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11.  Mosquito Bites?
Again the inside of the peel is to the rescue. Rub mosquito bites with the inside of the peel to help reduce swelling, itch, and irritation.
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12.  Anemia ?
Bananas also contain significant amount of iron. Iron stimulates the production of hemoglobin in the blood which may help in the case of anemia
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13. Looking for a tasty treat? Chocolate Covered Bananas
Try dark chocolate dipped frozen bananas.
Peel bananas and insert a popsicle stick in one end to halfway through banana. Freeze on cookie sheet until frozen ( about 8 hours) . Remove from freezer and dip banana in melted dark chocolate chips.

Bananas make great snacks whether eaten alone or incorporated into a smoothie, a muffin recipe, cut into cereal, dipped in chocolate or eaten on a sandwich with peanut butter. So, when you are tired and stressed instead of grabbing for a cookie, grab for a nourishing health giving banana. Your body will thank you.

You have always known that bananas are good for you, but you may not have known how much  they have to offer? Bananas have many qualities that are thought to contribute to optimal health. In comparison to an apple, they have twice the protein value, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice as many other vitamins and minerals.

Extra Tip: To keep bananas from ripening too quickly, separate your bananas. They ripen more slowly when they are separated from the bunch.

Disclaimer: This information in this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to treat or diagnose. Always check with your doctor before making any changes to your diet.

                 I love your comments, so please leave one

This post has been linked to the recipe carnivals at   Thrilling Thursday,  Full Plate Thursdays, Cooking Thursdays, Simple Lives Thursdays, It's a Keeper Thursdays, Frugal Food Thursday, La Bella Vita , Katies Cusina , Fight Back Friday, Foodie Friday, Friday Potluck Fighting the Flu