Cascia Talbert's Blog, page 34

Hydration: Not Just Important for the Summer Heat Wave– It Can Help Your Digestion, Too

by Susan Bowerman, M.S., RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND – Senior Director, Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training, Herbalife Nutrition Susan

Water is vital for the proper function of virtually every cell, tissue, and organ in the body. It helps regulate body temperature, acts as a “shock absorber” for the brain and spinal cord, and it lubricates joints, organs, and tissues. One of its most essential roles is aiding in proper digestion and delivery of nutrients to your cells.

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If more people really thought about how much their digestive systems do for them every day, they might be more inclined to take better care of their digestive health. Your digestive system has a huge job: it breaks down the foods that you eat in order to make nutrients and energy available to the body, and it is responsible for steering unwanted waste out of the body, too, all of which requires adequate hydration.

As the weather warms up, we tend to find ourselves drinking more mineral water which– in addition to staying active and eating plenty of fiber-rich plant foods – is key to healthy digestion. We’d want to have a  functioning air conditioning system to keep ourselves cool in the summer. But we still may not be drinking enough.  By the time your thirst mechanism kicks in, you’re already fairly dehydrated, so it’s important to stay on top of your fluid intake during the day. It’s also critical to make sure infants and small children get enough fluids as well, since it’s been estimated that half of the nation’s children are under-hydrated.

We all know we should drink water, but we don’t always set ourselves up for success. Registered dietitian, Susan Bowerman, shares five ways to prioritize your hydration:

Start your day with a beverage. Set out some water next to your bed at night and drink it as soon as you wake up – you’ll create a good habit that can last a lifetime.Hydrate throughout your workouts. Regular exercise also supports digestive health in a couple of ways. As your muscles contract and your breath deepens during activity, the natural contractions of your intestinal muscles are stimulated, too, which helps to move food through your system. Ensure you’re properly hydrating before, during and after trainings to help support the process.Drink more than you think. While your age, size, gender, and physical activity level will help determine your specific water needs, as a general rule, according to the Institutes of Medicine, the recommended daily fluid intake is about 11 cups for adult women and 15 cups for men. That sounds like a lot, but not all of it needs to come from beverages alone. About 70-80% should be provided by beverages – and at least half of that from water, with lesser contributions from tea, coffee, milk, and other beverages. The remaining 20-30% should come from watery foods such as fruits and vegetables.Try Aloe Beverages. Aloe is also popularly promoted as a tonic for the digestive system, since it helps to support nutrient absorption and overall digestive health. And it adds a nice flavor to water, which may encourage you to drink more.Make it interesting: add in citrus, herbs, fruit or a splash of juice to amp up the taste; go for a bubbly, unsweetened option; have sometea with lemon; keep a pitcher in the fridge for a nice icy blast on a warm day.

Whatever way you choose to stay hydrated, even a little bit more water on a daily basis can make a big difference.

For more tips from Susan Bowerman, visit www.IAMHerbalife.com.

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The article Hydration: Not Just Important for the Summer Heat Wave– It Can Help Your Digestion, Too by Susan Bowerman, M.S., RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND – Senior Director, Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training, Herbalife Nutrition Susan appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

The Benefits of Homeopathy

by Tiffany Pratt

Homeopathy is one of the most effective treatments for patients with certain common illnesses that cannot be treated with the drugs available on the market. Many people are questioning why people would even consider this treatment and how it works. This article will explain the benefits of homeopathy and what you can do to improve your health. Homeopathy is a type of medicine that can be used to treat the body from the inside out without the use of harmful drugs or surgery. It involves using pure substances and combining them to create a remedy.

There are then also some incredible homeopathy clinics all over the USA and Canada and one in particular has been getting some amazing reviews which is the DurdanaTariq.com homeopathy clinic in Mississauga so check them out if you want the very best.

Remedies are typically composed of substances that stimulate the healing process and stimulate the healing of injuries, diseases, or tumors. Homeopathic remedies can be used to treat a variety of different illnesses and ailments. The most popular of these are known as homeopathic cures.

This form of alternative medicine is different from modern medicine in that it is not based on the use of drugs or chemicals to treat diseases. Instead, it uses substances and dilutions that have been proven to work on humans. You will find that many treatments include an equal amount of substances and dilutions, which gives the remedy a similar taste and feel to the human body.

There are some reasons why homeopathy might be worth trying. A few of the benefits of homeopathy include a decrease in the level of depression and anxiety, relief from certain types of headaches, better sleep, and an increase in energy levels. Most patients also say that they experience fewer side effects from homeopathy.

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However, you should know that homeopathy does not guarantee that you will get positive results. It can be difficult to determine if a homeopathic remedy will work because it cannot be evaluated like pharmaceuticals. You should never give a homeopathic remedy to anyone who has a medical condition that you know about.

When you undergo treatment with homeopathy, you will receive relief from certain ailments by using the ingredients and the dilution ratio of that particular remedy. As long as you are aware of what is involved in homeopathy, you should be able to tell when a homeopathic remedy is working for you.

The process of homeopathic medicine is based on the observation that chemicals and substances can have an effect on a person’s body. These chemicals and substances cause chemicals and substances to occur within the body. As long as the symptoms that you are suffering from are an effect of these chemicals and substances, then it is because of the chemicals and substances in the remedy. The remedy is the chemical and substance that are causing the effect.

In the natural world, the difference between a beneficial and not-so-beneficial remedy is often referred to as the energy of the medicine. The energy of the medicine affects a person in the way that they feel and how they react to certain situations. You can determine whether a treatment is beneficial or not-so-beneficial one by testing it on yourself.

If you are feeling a certain side effect after a treatment and then try a placebo remedy, you may get the same side effect after you stop the treatment. Many patients who have had problems with side effects after homeopathic remedies have received these remedies from another doctor. By giving the patient a placebo instead of a placebo remedy, the placebo will not have the same effects as the medicine.

This type of medicine has also been shown to improve a person’s immune system. Scientists believe that it helps to stimulate the body’s immunity to fight disease. This means that the person’s immune system is boosted and they are more likely to recover from common illnesses.

It is a good idea to ask your doctor about homeopathy before undergoing any type of treatment. Many doctors are not sure ifthis type of medicine works, but they want to be sure that you are receiving the best care possible. You should be able to receive a prescription for homeopathic medicines if you are suffering from a specific illness or problem that cannot be treated with the prescription drugs on the market.

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The article The Benefits of Homeopathy by Tiffany Pratt appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Raw Vs Regular Honey

by Tiffany Pratt

Honey is sweet, sticky food substance produced by honeybees and related tropical insects, like bees ants, carpenter ants, and bumble bees. It is produced by the exhalation of queen bees from their hives. Bees create honey by the sugary fluid excreted by glands at the base of the hive, by enzymatic action, regurgitation, and by water evaporating. A hexane-based solvent is applied to the  surface, allowing it to pass through a strainer into a container. A small quantity of the concentrated honey is transferred to a wooden spoon for further stirring.

Raw honey is not in itself a food but contains a complex mixture of enzymes, minerals, proteins, vitamins, and starches. All living cells contain sugar and honey is one of the richest and most varied sources of natural sugars. A bee collects pollen from plants in the neighborhood and carries it back to the hive where workers collect it, dry it and package it into  small jars or baskets. Honey also is the best source of nourishment for bees, other insects, and birds.

The enzymes in honey are necessary for breaking down starches and fatty acids that are part of the complex carbohydrates found in plant cell walls. The raw material they use is called flower nectar. Flower nectar is carried to the hive where it is used to feed bees. During the winter months when there is no supply of plant sap, the beekeepers collect and mix this nectar with store-bought sugar syrup. This is mixed with flower nectar and honey is created.

All parts of the plant are consumed by bees except the white pith, which is retained by the worker bees for use in the hive. Only about ten percent of the honey is actually made by the worker bees. Queen bees take care of the rest. It can also be processed in another way to make honey-flakes that are harvested by the consumer. Large quantities of raw honey are collected every day from all parts of the world by commercial beekeepers.

There are two general types of honey: raw and pasteurized. Raw honey is produced by the bees in the hive by extracting honey by either manual or electronic methods. When it is extracted manually, it is often blended with water to dilute its flavor and improve its aroma. Raw honey is light in color and has a pleasant sweetish taste.

Pasteurized honey is made by heating raw honey to at least 135 degrees Fahrenheit and then passing it through a heat exchanger where the air is replaced by heat. Then it is passed through a centrifuge to remove the excess liquid, and left to cool in the hive.  All honey must undergo some further processing before it is ready for sale.

The quality and flavor of raw honey may vary depending on where it comes from, the quality of the beekeepers and the procedures used to extract it, among other factors. Honey that comes from locally grown bee colonies may be more flavorful than one obtained from farms in other areas because the bees are not exposed to pesticides or other contaminants. Therefore, you may find that the price of raw honey is less expensive than pasteurized honey from a nearby farm. On the other hand, raw honey may contain fewer pollen types than the version that is pasteurized, resulting in a honey that is not as pure as the one that is pasteurized.

One of the reasons why many people believe that raw honey is better for you than regular honey is that  it is closer to its natural state. Perhaps this is because people are more likely to eat raw honey that comes from their gardens. Raw honey may contain more vitamins and antioxidants than regular honey.

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The article Raw Vs Regular Honey by Tiffany Pratt appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

3 Easy Ways to Get Rid of the Mommy Pooch

by Kyle Colbert

For most women, being pregnant and having a baby (or more) is one of the greatest blessings in her life. Sure, there are many (many, many) challenges and struggles, but the entire experience, and of course, the baby, are miracles from God.

The mommy pooch, on the other hand, does not feel like a miracle. It’s tough. Sometimes women still look pregnant years after they’ve had children, never feel completely fit and lean, and struggle with a lack of results despite dieting and exercise. But there’s hope: Keto Zone can help you get rid of mommy pooch.

Why Mommy Pooch Happens

You know the story. For about 40 weeks, a baby grows inside and all your midsection seems to get rearranged. Part of the deal is that you must eat enough to nourish yourself and your growing baby, and part of it is that your body automatically stores fat (needed for pregnancy and breastfeeding).

Once you deliver your baby, much of your body rebounds. But, a mom’s midsection is not so accommodating. Typically, it continues to “pooch out” and carry extra fat.

And, it is so stubborn.

What’s more, a mom’s abdominal muscles may weaken and separate during pregnancy, as she gains centimeters outward each month. This, combined with extra fat accumulation equals the famed mommy pooch.

Why Get Rid of Mommy Pooch

While many women simply don’t like how it looks, mommy pooch goes beyond vanity. Abdominal fat is a dangerous type of fat storage.

In fact, studies show a significant link between lower belly fat and diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and heart attacks (1). What’s more, there is now evidence that belly fat also increases your risk of cancer and brain diseases.

Unfortunately, many eating plans simply can’t budge the belly fat. Even if using a low-calorie, high-carbohydrate diet, you may find that you lose fat everywhere but your belly.

This is why the Keto Zone is so amazing. It targets belly fat so you can finally get rid of belly fat. Here’s how:

3 Easy Ways to Get Rid of the Mommy Pooch1. Omits Most of the Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates, and especially refined sugars and starches, are part of the myriad of culprits in mommy pooch. In fact, their fructose sugar causes the formation and accumulation of visceral fat (a type of fat that lines your organs in your mid-section) (2) and causes mommy pooch. What’s more, visceral fat is also associated with increased risk of disease and type II diabetes (3).

All carbohydrates, whether whole-grain or refined, promote fat gain (4). Until you remove most of the carbohydrates from your diet, you will likely struggle with belly fat.

But, there’s great news. Dr. Colbert’s Keto Zone Diet will walk you through the exact steps of omitting carbohydrates to enter the Keto Zone, safely and effectively.

2. Add a Lot of Healthy Fat

If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, you were likely taught that fat was bad. You were taught that dietary fat actually caused fat gain and many diseases.

Unfortunately, this was incorrect teaching. Recent studies have found that eating a low-carb, high-fat diet is the most effective way to lose weight, body fat (5), and improve cardiovascular, blood sugar, and inflammation numbers.

In fact, when you replace most of your carbohydrates with healthy fats, you will feel fuller, more satisfied, lose weight, and get rid of your mommy pooch!

One of the best fats it adds is medium-chain triglycerides. These special fats are great for entering the Keto Zone, improving energy and mental clarity and losing fat. Best of all, Dr. Colbert’s Keto Zone MCT Oil Powder is easy to consume and tastes great in coffee.

Lastly, if you’re especially short on time and want an automatic way to way to drastically omit carbs and add healthy fats in the right balance, you can replace a meal with the delicious Keto Zone Shake.

3. Try Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a vital part of the Keto Zone for many. And, it’s much easier than it sounds. It simply means abstaining from foods for about 15-18 hours per 24-hour day (you use overnight as part of your fast). A lot of people wonder “can intermittent fasting help?”, well, we have the answer for you, yes!

And, you can actually consume many drinks while intermittent fasting, and it works very well for busy moms-on-the-go.

How?

If you simply stop eating in the evening by 6:30 or 7:00 after dinner, and then drink Keto Zone Coffee (coffee with Keto Zone MCT Oil Powder and Keto Zone Hydrolyzed Collagen), you can extend your “fasting time” into late morning.

Then, if you use a Keto Zone Shake around 10:00 or 11:00 am, and wait to eat solids until afternoon, you’ll have use IF for 16-18 hours. This is perfect IF, and will help you get rid of mom pooch. Studies show that IF reduces body fat and does not cause muscle loss (6, 7). It also promotes whole-body health, may reduce risk of cancer, and more!

Win-win!

In fact, when you use liquids that are extremely low in carbohydrates, your body continues to mimic fasting. So, you don’t have to “starve” yourself to use Keto Zone Intermittent Fasting, and you’ll actually feel more energetic and healthy than you think!

Bottom Line

You may be at the end of your rope trying to get rid of mommy pooch. But don’t despair. The Keto Zone diet is absolutely effective at reducing abdominal fat, improving energy and health, and increasing mental clarity and focus. Get starting, and start shrinking mommy pooch, today.

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The article 3 Easy Ways to Get Rid of the Mommy Pooch by Kyle Colbert appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

How to Care for a Sunburn

by LouAnn Moss

Sunburn occurs when the skin is exposed to excessive sun exposure, specifically the ultra-violet (UV) radiation from the sun. Your skin can also get burned from prolonged exposure to other UV light sources like at a tanning booth. The skin can burn when it is exposed to direct contact with the sun’s ultra-violet rays. This is what we usually refer to when we talk about sunburn.

Ultra-violet radiation (UV-A) is the main cause of sunburn. The most common type of UV-A is called uv-a radiation, which is found in high-energy rays such as those coming from the sun or from fluorescent light. The main problem with uv-a radiation is that it does not reach its peak level immediately. In other words, while you are sunbathing, you do not always experience the full-brightness of the UV-A rays.

By delaying the onset of the UV-A rays, sunburn sufferers avoid two things: first, the potential damage from UV-A; and second, the possibility of developing skin cancer. Both of these issues can lead to premature skin aging and, in the case of premature aging, premature death. The damage from uv-a radiation may not fully show up for up to three days after sun exposure, so it is possible to experience sunburn without knowing it.

Sunburns can be healed or at least reversed, if they are discovered early. You can take preventative measures to heal a sunburn and prevent them from occurring again. This includes staying out of the sun during periods of high UV rays. You can also avoid skin irritants and use sunscreen.

Sunburns are often accompanied by skin discoloration from the sunburn and small bumps (cysts) or raised skin lesions. These are caused by the overexposure to UV-A radiation. Sunburn patients are encouraged to limit sun exposure while healing. This includes wearing a wide-brimmed hat to shield their faces and their skin; applying sunscreen lotion to all exposed parts of the body;, and staying away from overexposure to ultraviolet rays as much as possible. Once healed, it is important to note that the sunburn will return unless the surrounding skin is bleached, treated with special moisturizing agents, or protected from UV light.

It is important to note that while the sun is the greatest risk for most people when it comes to skin cancer, it is not the only one. Exposure to indoor and outdoor smoke, as well as other types of pollution can lead to an increased risk of developing certain types of cancers. For this reason, smoking cessation is a good idea after sunburn treatment. If you do not quit smoking, the sunburn may come back even more difficult than before.

Although cool baths, lotions, and creams help relieve pain, they usually do not treat the source of the discomfort. In addition, exposure to skin may start to itch and burn once again once you are no longer in direct sunlight. These creams and lotions are not a long-term solution to sunburn, but they may help you feel better until your next sunburn.

Sunburns affect almost everyone at some point in their lives. An intense sunburn often happens right where the skin cells most need moisture, such as around the mouth and eyelids. Overexposure skin may start to peel as the layers of skin cells on the outermost layer of skin become damaged by ultraviolet radiation. This damage is what causes the dry, itchy, flaky, and itchy skin.

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6 Ways Gratitude Changes A Mom’s Life

by Kyle Colbert

This time of year, we are reminded to be thankful. To express gratitude for our foods, family, friends, and blessings. But what if we could harness these feelings and turn them into action? What if we practiced daily gratitudes for all the mundane daily blessings (and trials) in our lives throughout the year? Do we really believe that gratitude changes anything?

God teaches us to practice gratitude. In Psalm 107:8-9 it says, “Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for mankind, for He satisfies the thirsty and fill the hungry with good things.”

But why? Why is it so important to practice gratitude that Jesus Christ modeled it, even just hours before his crucifixion?

Why does God want our thanksgiving? Maybe it’s not for Him. Perhaps He’s given us a gift. A grateful heart that cultivates a healthy mind and body. One that can change our life.

A Grateful Happy Person

I want to be clear. This is not an admonition to be a grateful, happy person. We all have different God-given personalities. This list is about the practice of gratitude.

It’s an action, not a feeling or personality.

In fact, in the end, we’ll discuss ways to activate gratitude in your own life.

6 Science-Backed Ways Gratitude Changes a Mom’s Life1. Gratitude Improves Our Attitude and Happiness

There are a million tiny things that drive us crazy each day.

A million things pulling us and rushing us.

It would be easy to focus on these.

But, you tend to get more of what you focus on.

When we are grateful, even with and through all the things that make us nuts, and we focus on what we appreciate in our lives and in others, gratitude changes us. It increases our happiness.

There is no perfect life, so we must learn to be grateful in the midst of all the imperfections. This is not easy, and we will fail at it time and time again.

But thankfully, we serve a mighty God who will help us with each gracious step.

2. Motivation for a Healthy Lifestyle

When we practice daily thanksgivings, gratitude changes us by empowering us with motivation towards are goals.

In fact, scientists have linked practicing gratitude with healthier choices. In studies, those who report more gratitude use of tobacco, engage in more exercise, and better food choices (1, 2).

But of course, this could just be a reflection of a happy life.

Fortunately, they’ve also found that gratitude works as an intervention. “Gratitude intervention” studies have shown that 31% of gratitude-practicing participants quit smoking and maintained abstinence after 6 months, compared to the more common averages of 23% with a nicotine patch (3).

3. Stronger Heart and Less Sickness

Amazing, practicing gratitude changes our physical health, too.

In research, gratitude is associated with many good heart health outcomes including:

Better cholesterol levelsLower your blood pressure DDecreased heart rate variability.

These markers all indicate better heart health (4, 5).

What’s more, practicing gratitude can also boost your immune system, which is certainly a year-round gift!

How?

Studies show that the human body produces more disease-fighting cells when we are grateful and optimistic (6). As you’ll read, its effect on cortisol also benefits the immune system.

4. Healthy Aging and Optimism

One of the most sought-after therapies for any mom surrounds healthy aging.

Having babies, taking care of them, and living decade after decade can take a toll on your body. It impacts energy, physical appearance, and our outlook.

Did you know gratitude changes these as well?

First, the biggest key for healthy aging is a sharp, healthy brain. One key factor to healthy aging is brain health.

Next, gratitude can change the way you see your physical appearance, which is a big factor in your joy with aging. This too, has been studied. When subjects specifically focus on body gratitude, or an appreciation for their own physical body, its appearance, and what it could do, both their body image and physical abilities improve (7).

Lastly, gratitude unlocks optimism, and optimism is the fountain of youth if there ever was one. In fact, a recent study has found that greater optimism is linked to longer lives (8).

5. Better Sleep for Weary Moms

The majority of moms could use better sleep. Try finishing your day with writing down gratitudes rather than worrying about stresses!

One study of 400 individuals found that writing gratitudes before sleep improves both the quality and duration of sleep (9).

Another study found that gratitude was linked to a 10% improvement in sleep and a 19% decrease in stress and depression levels in patients with chronic disease and insomnia (10).

Gratitude can help us all rest easier.

6. Stressed Out? Gratitude Offers less Stress and Anxiety

As we head into the most wonderful, but the busiest time of year, it’s helpful that gratitude changes our stress levels.

As we focus on gratitude actions, we can welcome the Christmas season with less stress and anxiety.

In fact, gratitude decreases cortisol, the stress hormone, by up to 23% in studies (1).

This is good both for our mental and physical health.

High, chronic cortisol levels are associated with many chronic diseases including diabetes, heart health, and metabolic syndrome (11).

Since most of our modern stress is mental, and not physical, we often don’t have an outlet for it, and it simply continues to increase in our bodies.

Additionally, gratitude changes brain health by:

Increasing self-worthImproving emotional and mental resilience to overcome challengesReducing negative emotions such as envy, regret, and resentmentLowering symptoms of, and the risk of depressionHow Can a Mom Practice Gratitude?

Let Thanksgiving be your grand kick-off to a whole year of gratitude. To keep this habit going, try these steps.

Set up a “gratitude time.” This is often great before bed. List 5 gratitudes each night, and meditate on them.Keep a journal with you and write down daily gratitudes throughout the day that come to mind. Keep these in the same journal alongside the before-bed gratitudes.Need more inspiration? A wonderful book on gratitude is called 1000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp. The author recognizes gratitude throughout scriptures and how it can change our lives.Bottom Line

Gratitude changes everything, and it can absolutely change a mom’s life. Don’t see it as a personality or a once-per-year holiday. Rather, it’s daily actions and recognitions of blessing, big and small. Put gratitude into practice and see your life changed this year!

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The article 6 Ways Gratitude Changes A Mom’s Life by Kyle Colbert appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Health Benefits of Fenugreek

by Andrea Crawley

Fenugreek (Fennel Seed) is used to treat several conditions. In folk medicine it is used for pain relief, as well as used for digestive concerns. Some other conditions, it may be useful for include inflammation, constipation, blood circulation problems, colds, and influenza, neuralgia (painful muscle spasms), rheumatism, as well as yeast infections. Many of the health claims regarding fenugreek are based on folklore rather than solid medical evidence. If you have any questions about fenugreek or find that your condition has improved after taking it, talk to your health care provider.

How does fenugreek help lower blood glucose? It contains anti-oxidants, which have been found to inhibit the conversion of LDL cholesterol into oxidized forms that lead to heart disease. Fenugreek also contains lots of other nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and thiamin. These all work to improve the overall health of the body, including lowering blood glucose. Some of these nutrients also help increase muscle mass.

Other herbs containing anti-oxidants that fenugreek seeds contain are aloes, licorice, mangosteen, alfalfa, ginger, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. All of these extracts can be combined in a powder to make a great-tasting tea. You don’t need any special brewing equipment to make this tea. Simply add hot water, let the fenugreek seeds steep for just a minute, strain into a container, and add a little sugar or honey for that sweet, lasting taste. It tastes great as a pick-me-up or in combination with other natural ingredients.

Not only does fenugreek have lots of fiber and anti-oxidants, it also contains one more nutrient that has been found very beneficial for reducing cardiovascular disease and cancer: trigonella. What is trigonella? According to Native American folklore, the spirits of the dead fly around the living to warn them of danger. In Chinese medicine, the herb is called Jiu (Jiaogulan) Gui, while in Ayurvedic medicine, it is called Trigonella.

In addition to helping reduce cardiovascular disease and cancer, fenugreek may help to protect against aging. In fact, some researchers believe that the herb reverses the effects of aging. This is due to fenugreek’s ability to prevent damage caused by free radicals in our bodies. Free radicals are chemical molecules that are created when we are exposed to toxins, such as cigarette smoke, pollutants, and air pollution. These chemical molecules attach to our cells, steal nutrients from them, and cause a wide variety of diseases, including cancer and heart disease.

While scientists have yet to determine all of the health benefits that fenugreek possesses, they do agree that this herb can help with a host of male disorders. For example, research has shown that fenugreek has an effect on erectile dysfunction in men. The herb can stimulate testosterone production, which allows men to experience increased sexual desire and function. Testosterone plays a significant role in the body’s ability to maintain a stable heart rate and to produce blood sugar, which is essential for low testosterone levels. As a result, men who take fenugreek supplements have been found to have lower levels of blood sugar, which can lead to fluctuations in mood and energy levels.

Another area where fenugreek may be helpful is in the treatment of hypogonadism. Hypogonadism is caused by the absence of fenugreek in the body, which can prevent the pituitary gland from producing the necessary hormone for optimal brain function. Because hypogonadism can cause serious functional problems, some physicians may use fenugreek as a substitute for prescription medications.

In sum, fenugreek does have some legitimate uses. However, anyone wishing to treat an existing condition should view abstract data and consider the benefits and risks of any alternative treatments that they are considering. Before taking any herbs, it is important to consult with a qualified professional, such as a doctor, nutritionist, or homeopathic practitioner. This will ensure that you obtain the most beneficial results from your fenugreek supplementation.

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Your Guide to Leaky Gut During the Holiday Eating Season

by Dr. Chad Larson

Genetics are usually the first to be blamed for our food intolerances, sensitivities and disorders. And, while they are said to play a role in the digestive functions of individuals, there are many lifestyle triggers responsible for the onset of digestive issues.  Stress and diet, food intolerance and excessive alcohol consumption in particular, are key factors. Well, guess what! We just happen to be rolling into the greatest host of these lifestyle triggers: the holiday season!

Leaky gut syndrome, the process of bacterial antigens and unwanted proteins permeating the intestinal wall and leaking into the bloodstream, is a condition that has raised concern over recent years, and with good reason. Western lifestyle is thought to be a major contributor to leaky guts across America. While this victimizes our culture, it also illustrates that it can be fixed or avoided altogether. How? Through a thoughtful diet and healthy behaviors. Unfortunately, both of these often go MIA during the holidays as we indulge in less-than-healthy, rich foods and drinks, while functioning on minimal sleep and maximum stress.

For those who may already be susceptible to a leaky gut, the gluttony of holiday festivities can heighten the symptoms which range from digestive issues like constipation, bloating, diarrhea and nutritional deficiencies, to physical issues such as chronic fatigue, joint pain and arthritis. But possibly the most shocking discovery is the effect leaky gut can have on the brain and neurological function, affecting one’s mood and causing brain fog, anxiety or depression. While the holidays are supposed to be a time for celebration, family togetherness and rejoicing, it is sadly also a time that brings about stress and feelings of loneliness and depression for many—which can then be magnified for an individual experiencing the effects of a leaky gut.

It is therefore imperative that those who present symptoms associated with leaky gut syndrome be cautious with their culinary indulgences and be mindful of their behavioral patterns during this busy, festive season. It may come as no surprise that sugar, alcohol, grains and dairy are among the top foods to avoid. Just what you wanted to hear before diving in to pumpkin pie and spiked eggnog, right? I’m just the messenger, and there’s more. You also need to minimize stress and overexertion and get plenty of sleep. This might seem impossible as you start to dust off your holiday décor, plan and attend parties and shop for gifts. But, look at it this way, you’re of little good to your family and friends if you are sluggish, not feeling well and down in spirit.

A healthy diet and lifestyle can prevent leaky gut or help to repair the damage associated with leaky gut. Failure to avoid inflammatory foods or foods that you may be intolerant to could lead to inflammation, autoimmune reactivity and ultimately, the onset of autoimmune disease. Leaky gut can also have negative implications on your overall health due to an increase of inflammation from the toxic antigens that would otherwise not be leaking into your system.

If you have digestive issues or any of the symptoms described, you should consider testing to help determine if the foods you’re eating may be impacting your gut permeability. Cyrex Laboratories, a clinical laboratory specializing in functional immunology and autoimmunity, offers the only enhanced intestinal permeability test on the market, the Array 2 – Intestinal Antigenic Permeability Screen. This screening tests the permeability of large molecules in the small intestine and helps identify the route of intestinal damage as a result of immune reactivity from environmental or dietary triggers.

It is always recommended to seek the advice of your primary care physician. And, understanding the route of damage can help direct your healthcare professional to the trigger causing your symptoms. ‘Tis the season to be holly, jolly—and healthy. And you really can’t get the holly and jolly without the healthy so take care of yourself this holiday season!

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The article Your Guide to Leaky Gut During the Holiday Eating Season by Dr. Chad Larson appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Health Benefits of Garlic and What is It Good For

by Tammy Jones

One of the most versatile and yet most misunderstood of all herbs is garlic.  It is  an herb with a very distinctive, strong flavor. For centuries it has been used to treat a range of ailments. Even though there are many varieties on the market, it is still possible for you to find the best one based on your individual needs. If you want to know how to cook garlic, then here are some tips you need to keep in mind.

The most common way to cook garlic is by boiling it. To do this, make sure that you have washed the garlic thoroughly, cutting it into thin slices. Then place them onto a plate and drizzle on generous amounts of olive oil. Wait for it to heat up slightly and pop them into the pan with the bulbs. You should wait until they are halfway done before removing them from the heat.

Another way of cooking garlic is by using garlic scapes. To prepare the scapes, first peel the clove or bulb and  cut a slit in the middle of it. Then wrap it  a cloth around it and leave it to dry. In order to remove the cloves from the scape, simply hold it up by its base. It will come off quite easily, as the skin of it is very thin.

There has also been much debate about whether garlic oil is helpful to prevent heart disease. Some studies have shown that it may lower the incidence of heart disease by up to 40 percent.

Most people enjoy the taste of garlic in early summer.. In early summer, there is enough of it available that you can cook a lot to get all the use out of it. If you are lucky enough to have a garden near your house, you can harvest the clove or bulb every day. In fact, this is ideal and recommended if you are able to harvest your own garlic. Many people prefer to buy their garlic in the late spring or early summer.  This is better because spring and summer are when it is at its ripest.

It should be noted that if you have never cooked with garlic before, you might find it a little tricky at first. The taste of garlic scapes taste like garlic bulbs but, the difference is that it is smoother. This means that it can be swabbed onto vegetables or used on your baked potatoes.

Garlic may help lower blood pressure and increase cardiovascular health. Both these benefits have been proven over the past several years. Garlic has also been used to treat various conditions such as diabetes. In fact, studies have shown that garlic may help decrease blood pressure and cholesterol while increasing the levels of good cholesterol.

Another way in which garlic supplements may be beneficial is by controlling cholesterol levels. There is some evidence that suggests that a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, along with adding garlic to your diet, may help to control high cholesterol levels. Garlic also contains an enzyme that allows it to break down cholesterol. So, by adding garlic to your diet, you could help prevent the build up of cholesterol and high blood pressure.

As you can see from this overview of the health benefits of garlic, there are a variety of ways that it can benefit your overall health. People may choose to include this tasty herb in their daily meals to get a variety of health benefits. Or, they may simply enjoy the taste of garlic and add it to a variety of dishes.

In order for garlic to have the most health benefits, you should ensure that it is eaten raw. Raw garlic contains allicin, which is a powerful compound that destroys bacteria. Garlic can also be ingested to eat raw onions or eating cooked garlic cloves. You should not eat garlic breath directly though, as the breath will contain a number of bacteria that can lead to a range of different health problems including stomach infections.

Allicin is the most active component in garlic, accounting for about 60% of the plant’s strength. This compound is produced when the cells of the garlic plant split open (by either puncturing the bulb or by hydrolysis). When this occurs, chemical compounds called colicins are released. These compounds are antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral, among other things.

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The article Health Benefits of Garlic and What is It Good For by Tammy Jones appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Fewer Sweets for More Protein this Holiday

by Susan Bowerman, M.S., RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND – Senior Director, Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training, Herbalife Nutrition Susan

Did you know some Americans may gain up to six pounds this holiday season?

Herbalife Nutrition recently commissioned a survey* of 2,000 Americans to find out about the dietary challenges they experience during the holiday season. Not surprisingly, many who reported weight gain contributed it to the amount of sweets they consume over the holidays. More than half of the respondents reported cookies (54%) and pies or cakes (53%) to be the biggest food temptation, more so than holiday meals (44%). In fact, 44% of respondents reported that they tend to eat more than one dessert during a holiday meal.

While it’s probably not realistic to avoid all sweets during the holidays, there are some things you can do to help you keep your intake reasonable. One key to minimizing holiday weight gain overall is to make sure that you eat balanced meals and snacks throughout the day and include a source of protein each time. Protein can help you to feel fuller, so you’ll eat less, which may help prevent over-indulging on those tempting treats.

Here are some tips to help you stay on track over the holidays:

Start the Day with a High Protein Breakfast

Aim for 15-20 grams of protein at breakfast. Instead of cereal, have eggs, yogurt or cottage cheese or try a protein shake. Studies have shown that a high protein breakfast not only helps you stay full until lunch but may even curb your intake and unhealthy snacking over the course of the day.

  Don’t Go to a Holiday Party Hungry

Too many people skip meals before holiday events, but they often end up overindulging at meals and dessert because they’re overly hungry or think they’ve “earned it”. Have a substantial, protein-rich snack prior to your event— such as some Greek yogurt with fruit or some hummus and vegetables – before you walk out the door.

Lighten Up On Dessert

There are likely certain desserts that you associate with the holidays – the ones that you don’t eat any other time of the year.  Save some calories so that you can enjoy a small serving but skip the ‘everyday’ sweets that really aren’t that special. And try being satisfied with just a couple of bites.  Studies show that the first few bites really are the best, and that pleasure diminishes with each extra bite.

For more tips from Susan, visit http://www.IAmHerbalifeNutrition.com/.

*Herbalife Nutrition and OnePoll (Writing Off the End of the Year November 2019)

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The article Fewer Sweets for More Protein this Holiday by Susan Bowerman, M.S., RD, CSSD, CSOWM, FAND – Senior Director, Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training, Herbalife Nutrition Susan appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.