April 2010

Regular Walking Dramatically Cuts Stroke Risk in Women

by Scott Campbell on April 30th, 2010

Women in their fifties may be concerned about the risk of strokes yet many do not feel that a “gym” lifestyle is for them. The good news is that in a long-term study by the Harvard School of Public Health, it was found that walking came out on top for slashing the risk of strokes in women by up to 68%. Here’s the lowdown: The research study followed more than 39,000 female health professionals with an average age of 54. Every 2-3 years the study group reported on their physical activity which ranged from jogging and aerobics classes to yoga.

Digging In The Dirt Helps You Blossom And Grow

by Allyson Dekker on April 28th, 2010

Left to their own devices, small children will often spend hours just digging in the dirt. Studies show that if we as adults spent more time “digging in the dirt” we would enjoy enhanced physical, mental and spiritual health.  This spring, make a point to get your hands dirty by planting a garden and watch your health blossom and grow. The benefits of gardening are so well-documented that “horticultural therapy” has emerged as a proven method to support physical healing by promoting happiness and peace.  Because gardening has numerous emotional benefits, it has been introduced into various settings including prisons,

How to Stay in the Game…The Game of Life!

by Cindy Gray on April 22nd, 2010

…. And Enjoy it to the Fullest!! Recently I received a health newsletter from a local hospital about to celebrate its 40th year of service.  With a cartoon of a fortune teller looking into a crystal ball, they wrote: “Looking Ahead: What Will It Be Like Getting Older?”  Here are some of the forecasted changes they say we can expect… Bones shrink in size and density, making them easier to break. The heart muscle becomes less efficient, and blood vessels become less elastic, making arteries stiffer, making the heart work harder, a vicious cycle that can lead to hypertension. The

The Health Benefits of Macrobiotic Miracle Foods

by Sheila McCormick on April 14th, 2010

The word “macrobiotic” is derived from the Greek language and means “long life.” A macrobiotic lifestyle is based on a healthy diet made up of local and seasonal organic foods. In an ideal macrobiotic world, meals would be made up of grains, vegetables, beans, sea vegetables and fish or seafood, which is often eaten with horseradish, wasabi or ginger for detoxification purposes. An occasional dessert is also recommended in controlled portions. According to devotees, this diet provides a blend of nutrients, tastes and textures, which is said to enhance balance and wellness within the body. Many believe the macrobiotic diet

The Wonders of Wheatgrass for Better Health

by Sheila McCormick on April 7th, 2010

Wheatgrass, the young grass of the common wheat plant, is a phytonutrient (or plant nutrient) that has been slated to be a “super supplement” in terms of its health benefits.  Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll and a host of healthful amino acids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes.  It can be juiced fresh for the most health benefit or dried and made into a powder or tablet.  Unlike wheat flour which is a grain, wheatgrass is a vegetable and does not contain gluten which can sometimes cause allergies.  In fact, wheatgrass contains properties which are anti-allergenic in most people.  It generates a sweet tasting