Spring brings with it the desire for renewal. That is why we launch into a frenzy of spring cleaning in our homes. We find ourselves wanting to freshen things up by cleaning out closets, washing the curtains and shining the kitchen floors until they gleam. This year, why not do some spring cleaning where it matters most: your body! During the past several years the concept of detoxing our bodies has gained popularity as holistic practitioners and mainstream health providers have confirmed the benefits it can have on our health. Detoxification, which has been practiced for centuries by cultures throughout
May 2010
Spring Cleaning For Your Body
by Scott Campbell on May 26th, 2010The Hidden Sugars in our Modern Diets
by Holly Anderson on May 21st, 2010Most consumers agree that sugars are one of the main culprits which add up to obesity and poor health in our westernized diets. However, few of us realize just where these sugars come from. Refined sugars have no nutritional merit and for those trying to lose weight they should be the first thing to be cut from a calorie-controlled diet. Sugary drinks, doughnuts, chocolate, sweet treats, ice cream and brownies are all seen as no-no’s for those watching their weight. However, it is both surprising and enlightening to see where our daily sugar intake comes from. It is not always
Natural Ways to Boost Brain Power
by admin on May 19th, 2010Have you ever been in the midst of a conversation and couldn’t remember what you were trying to say? Do you occasionally forget names? We all want to be mentally sharp and focused, and there are ways to make this happen! Give these suggestions a try to help boost your brain power and maximize its full potential. Try these foods for a healthy brain: Wild Salmon is one of the best sources of essential fatty acids. This healthy fat boosts memory and helps to prevent age-related dementia. Wild salmon is also a rich source of high-quality animal protein, which is
Breakfast: Is it What We Eat or When We Eat It That Really Counts?
by Holly Anderson on May 17th, 2010Breakfast is oft-quoted as being the most important meal, yet it is the easiest and most commonly skipped, setting a bad precedence for the rest of the day. A study at the University of Edinburgh found that more than half of girls in the UK over the age of 15 were skipping breakfast, often to watch their weight. A recent study by the University of Connecticut has homed in on breakfast items and has concluded that eating eggs for breakfast might help you eat less later in the day. The reason is simple; protein is more filling and satisfying and
D is for Diabetes, Deficiency and Vitamin D
by Holly Anderson on May 14th, 2010Recent studies by the Loyola University Chicago Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing have found an interesting connection between the Ds of diabetes and deficiency in Vitamin D. The study reported that an adequate intake of vitamin D may prevent or delay the onset of diabetes whilst helping those who are already diagnosed with the disease. It has now been shown that diabetics are generally low in vitamin D and that the deficiency has been associated with hyperglycemia, hypertension and insulin resistance. Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to many other serious illnesses including rickets and osteoporosis. Another recent study
Do You Drink Enough Water?
by Cindy Gray on May 12th, 2010Next to air, water is the single most essential element for life. Just like the earth, we consist primarily of water. The human body is composed of approximately 75% water, and 25% solid matter. The composition of our brain tissue is said to be 85% water. Drinking plenty of pure water is one of the absolute best things you can do for yourself on the road to self-care. Water provides our bodies with moisture and lubrication, both inside and out. Water regulates our temperature, carries nutrients and oxygen to our cells, removes waste, cushions our joints, and protects our organs
Studies Show Long-Term Decreased Lung Function in Rescue Workers at Ground Zero
by Scott Campbell on May 10th, 2010If you suffer with asthma, emphysema or other breathing problems, then spare a thought for the men and women who were exposed to the dense cloud of smoke, concrete dust and fumes when the World Trade Center collapsed on 9/11. In particular the first responders were exposed to clouds of toxic and irritant fumes, not only from the building’s collapse but also from the diesel exhaust fumes generated by the rescue equipment. Although everyone’s lung function declines with age, recently released studies show that the lung function of rescue workers at Ground Zero suddenly took a hit which equated overnight
Discover The Savory Goodness Of Fresh Herbs
by Allyson Dekker on May 5th, 2010Who says something that tastes good can’t be good for you? Whether you grow your own or purchase them at your local farmer’s market, fresh fragrant herbs can turn even the most modest meal into a savory delight. And best of all, herbs add flavor without increasing sodium and other additives in your diet. As an added bonus, many culinary herbs contain antioxidants that help boost the immune system. There are several varieties of herbs that are perfect for enhancing your favorite recipes and they are very easy to use. Bear in mind that when you use fresh herbs you
A Glass of Wine a Day May Help Keep the Doctor Away
by Holly Anderson on May 3rd, 2010While doctors and health gurus are constantly adding to the list of what not to eat and drink, a number of recent reports have dared to show that the benefits of drinking wine, in moderation, may actually be good for your health. Boost Your Memory Alcohol in excessive amounts can most certainly blot out the memory, but one interesting study by researchers shows that women in their 70s who drank a glass or more of wine each day scored much better in memory tests than their tee-total sisters. Wine is known to reduce inflammation in blood vessels and helps prevent