Beautiful Medjool Dates
As most of you know, I am a type 1 SUPER STRICT Diabetic :-)
Since my diagnosis, from that day forward, I quite sugar and all refined, highly processed foods.
So these days the sweetest thing I eat would probably be dates, other than fruit, and only recently did I discover the beauty of massive Medjool dates.
Now I'd been purchasing the normal dates from time to time, but recently I stumbled across these massive beauties.
Medjools are often informally known as the “king of dates,”. Most people describe medjool dates as having a rich, almost caramel-like taste. They are a lot bigger than the normal dates you see in the shops.
Medjool dates only contain about 66 calories each. They are a good source of fiber and contain high levels of the essential minerals potassium, magnesium, copper, and manganese. Most do contain a significant amount of fruit sugar, but this can make them a good alternative to more caloric desserts. They are virtually fat, cholesterol and sodium FREE!
They are delicious in desserts, or a snack. For a massive boost of energy, vitamins and minerals, spoon some peanut butter into one, squish in a brazil nut, and nosh! So so so good :-) Perfect, healthy pick me up.
Since my diagnosis, from that day forward, I quite sugar and all refined, highly processed foods.
So these days the sweetest thing I eat would probably be dates, other than fruit, and only recently did I discover the beauty of massive Medjool dates.
Now I'd been purchasing the normal dates from time to time, but recently I stumbled across these massive beauties.
Medjools are often informally known as the “king of dates,”. Most people describe medjool dates as having a rich, almost caramel-like taste. They are a lot bigger than the normal dates you see in the shops.
Medjool dates only contain about 66 calories each. They are a good source of fiber and contain high levels of the essential minerals potassium, magnesium, copper, and manganese. Most do contain a significant amount of fruit sugar, but this can make them a good alternative to more caloric desserts. They are virtually fat, cholesterol and sodium FREE!
They are delicious in desserts, or a snack. For a massive boost of energy, vitamins and minerals, spoon some peanut butter into one, squish in a brazil nut, and nosh! So so so good :-) Perfect, healthy pick me up.
Alternative to Dairy
There has been much research and speculation over dairy. Most of us were taught as children that dairy is an essential part of a healthy diet and is necessary for building strong bones.
We have come to learnt that cows milk has 59 active hormones, scores of allergens , fat and cholesterol. Most cows milk has measurable quantities of herbicides, pesticides, dioxins, antibiotics, blood, pus, feces, bacteria and viruses. Besides the effects of casein in the body, and the link to prostate cancer and osteoporosis, dairy has links to many diseases and ailments.
If you are concerned about getting enough calcium in your diet without dairy, here are a few things to consider:
So, now we move onto alternatives. Nut milk. Delicious, nutrition and 'bad stuff'' free! Yes please!
Almond Nut Milk
Ingredients:
1 cup Almonds
4 Cups Water
Optional Add-Ins
-sweetener to taste (i.e. maple syrup, honey, stevia, or my suggestion…4-6 medjool dates)
- Vanilla Extract (I like to add 1 teaspoon to the mix)
- Spices (i.e. cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cardamon…get creative)
Soak the nuts overnight. Drain and place in blender with water. Blend at high speed until very well mixed. Add your optional add ins. Pour mixture into nut milk bag, or very fine mesh cloth. Stir the mixture to help the liquid get through. Store the milk in the fridge. Shake before use. It should keep for 2-4 days. Yum Yum Yum!
We have come to learnt that cows milk has 59 active hormones, scores of allergens , fat and cholesterol. Most cows milk has measurable quantities of herbicides, pesticides, dioxins, antibiotics, blood, pus, feces, bacteria and viruses. Besides the effects of casein in the body, and the link to prostate cancer and osteoporosis, dairy has links to many diseases and ailments.
If you are concerned about getting enough calcium in your diet without dairy, here are a few things to consider:
- Protein from animal products is much more likely to cause calcium loss than protein from plant foods. This may be one reason that vegetarians tend to have stronger bones than meat eaters.
- To be absorbed efficiently, calcium has to be paired with an adequate amount of magnesium. Milk does not contain magnesium.
- Caffeine increases the rate at which calcium is lost through urine.
- Diets high in sodium, especially packaged processed foods, increase calcium losses in the urine.
- Diets high in refined carbohydrates such as cereal, candies, pasta and white bread decrease the availability of calcium in the body.
- Alcohol inhibits calcium absorption.
- The mineral boron may slow the loss of calcium from bones.
- Exercise slows bone loss and is one of the most important factors in maintaining bone health.
- Green leafy vegetables such as kale, collard, turnip greens, spinach. Just 3/4 cup of collard greens contains more calcium than 1 cup of cow’s milk.
- Vegetables such as broccoli, bok choi, green beans, celery
- Citrus fruit, especially oranges
- Ocean plants/seaweed such as kelp, wakame, arame
- Raw nuts and seeds such as almonds and sesame seeds (extracted from http://zoevblog.com/2010/06/01/the-ugly-truth-about-dairy/)
So, now we move onto alternatives. Nut milk. Delicious, nutrition and 'bad stuff'' free! Yes please!
Almond Nut Milk
Ingredients:
1 cup Almonds
4 Cups Water
Optional Add-Ins
-sweetener to taste (i.e. maple syrup, honey, stevia, or my suggestion…4-6 medjool dates)
- Vanilla Extract (I like to add 1 teaspoon to the mix)
- Spices (i.e. cinnamon, allspice, cloves, cardamon…get creative)
Soak the nuts overnight. Drain and place in blender with water. Blend at high speed until very well mixed. Add your optional add ins. Pour mixture into nut milk bag, or very fine mesh cloth. Stir the mixture to help the liquid get through. Store the milk in the fridge. Shake before use. It should keep for 2-4 days. Yum Yum Yum!
Chia Seeds
Pronounced CHEE-ah, this tiny seed was once a central part of the Ancient Aztec and Mayan cultures. Together with amaranth, maize (corn) and beans, Chia was one of the four key elements that formed the basic components of their daily diet. Although Chia was almost completely lost in history after the Spanish Invasion, it is finally being recognised as an outstanding superfood with the potential to greatly improve human nutrition and health. Taking the health world by storm, the amazing Chia seed is certainly proving itself to be one of the most exciting superfoods on the market! Not only incredibly nutritious and full of antioxidants, Chia is rich in fibre, gluten-free, diabetic friendly and highly beneficial to almost everyone regardless of age, gender or nationality! And the best part is, you can add Chia to almost any meal, any time of the day to enhance flavour, lower the GI and of course give your meal a super nutritional boost!
1. Omega 3
Did you know that your body can’t produce Omega 3 on its own but that it must come from your diet!? This would not be such a huge statement until you learn that every single cell membrane in your body requires omega 3 to be able to function properly (hence it is called an essential fatty acid).
This is where Chia starts to get exciting… As a single whole-food, it contains one of the planet’s highest concentrations of omega 3's around (about 8 times more than salmon). It also has a near perfect ratio of Omega 3 (30%) to Omega 6 (10%) of 3:1, to help keep your cells healthy. And unlike other sources of Omega 3, chia seeds can be eaten every single day in their raw form; no grinding, soaking, processing or extracting needed!
2. Weight Loss
Per serving (15g) Chia has 6.3g of carbohydrates of which 6.2g is fibre! This means Chia is high-fibre and low-carb, with minimal calories - a dieters dream! In fact per 100g of Chia there is only 1g of usable carbohydrates.
Also, one of the unique things about chia is its ability to soak up water. If you add one part chia seeds to nine parts water, and leave it for about fifteen minutes, you’ll get a mixture with a gel-like consistency. This Chia ‘gel’ keeps you feeling fuller for longer, thereby suppressing your appetite and preventing overeating.
Furthermore, the chia gel slows down the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar providing a sustained release of energy and keeping blood sugar levels under control… great news for diabetics!
3. Fibre
As previously mentioned Chia is an amazing source of fibre, both soluble and insoluble. The extra fibre acts like a broom ‘sweeping’ toxins out of the intestinal tract for a safe detox, as well as helping lower cholesterol levels and regulating bowel movements. Chia’s fibre even promotes the growth of friendly bacteria, or probiotics, which boost the immune system and maintain the natural balance of a healthy digestive system.
4. Protein
Chia seeds are a complete source of protein. They actually have 2 times the protein of any other seed or grain – about 23% protein per seed. All essential amino acids are present (including Lysine) and appropriately balanced for optimal absorption and assimilating in the body.
5. Energy
In the Mayan language the word “chian” means “energizer” or “fortifier.” Chia's fibre and healthy fat content provide consistent energy. Known to the Aztec culture as 'the running food,' just one tablespoon of Chia was believed to sustain an Aztec warrior for a whole day! Think what this means for you... All you need to do is sprinkle a little Chia over each meal and you've got your self a natural energy kick.
6. Athletes (Hydration)
Another benefit of the chia seed gel is that it helps endurance athletes stay hydrated. Any liquids drunk before, during, or after exercise will stay in the body for longer. High in protein, chia seed also helps build strong muscles the natural way.
7. Antioxidants
Chia is a great antioxidant source with an ORAC of about 9900 (exceptionally high for a seed!). Not only do these antioxidants help you to fight disease and defy age naturally, they also naturally prevent the seeds from going off, giving Chia an amazingly long shelf life when stored in its natural, dry state.
8. Environmentally friendly
The high oil content in the leaves of the Chia plant acts as an extremely potent and natural insect repellent, eliminating the need for the use of nasty chemicals and pesticides to protect the crop.
9. Nutrition Packed
As well as Omega 3, fibre and protein, Chia is packed full of vitamins and minerals including most B vitamins, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, boron and copper. Adding to this Chia has 5x more calcium than milk, 3x more iron than spinach and 15x more magnesium than broccoli! This truly is one amazing superfood that packs a punch so strong it is virtually unmatched in its nutritious profile!
10. Taste, Flavour & Fun
Just when you thought Chia couldn’t get any better, it is arguably one of the most diverse superfoods available. Since they have virtually no flavour of their own and actually enhance the flavours of the foods with which they are combined, the uses for Chia are limitless!!! You can even bake with less fat by exchanging half the amount of butter in your recipe for the Chia gel! Perfect for making any Christmas treats more nutritious AND low GI.
1. Omega 3
Did you know that your body can’t produce Omega 3 on its own but that it must come from your diet!? This would not be such a huge statement until you learn that every single cell membrane in your body requires omega 3 to be able to function properly (hence it is called an essential fatty acid).
This is where Chia starts to get exciting… As a single whole-food, it contains one of the planet’s highest concentrations of omega 3's around (about 8 times more than salmon). It also has a near perfect ratio of Omega 3 (30%) to Omega 6 (10%) of 3:1, to help keep your cells healthy. And unlike other sources of Omega 3, chia seeds can be eaten every single day in their raw form; no grinding, soaking, processing or extracting needed!
2. Weight Loss
Per serving (15g) Chia has 6.3g of carbohydrates of which 6.2g is fibre! This means Chia is high-fibre and low-carb, with minimal calories - a dieters dream! In fact per 100g of Chia there is only 1g of usable carbohydrates.
Also, one of the unique things about chia is its ability to soak up water. If you add one part chia seeds to nine parts water, and leave it for about fifteen minutes, you’ll get a mixture with a gel-like consistency. This Chia ‘gel’ keeps you feeling fuller for longer, thereby suppressing your appetite and preventing overeating.
Furthermore, the chia gel slows down the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar providing a sustained release of energy and keeping blood sugar levels under control… great news for diabetics!
3. Fibre
As previously mentioned Chia is an amazing source of fibre, both soluble and insoluble. The extra fibre acts like a broom ‘sweeping’ toxins out of the intestinal tract for a safe detox, as well as helping lower cholesterol levels and regulating bowel movements. Chia’s fibre even promotes the growth of friendly bacteria, or probiotics, which boost the immune system and maintain the natural balance of a healthy digestive system.
4. Protein
Chia seeds are a complete source of protein. They actually have 2 times the protein of any other seed or grain – about 23% protein per seed. All essential amino acids are present (including Lysine) and appropriately balanced for optimal absorption and assimilating in the body.
5. Energy
In the Mayan language the word “chian” means “energizer” or “fortifier.” Chia's fibre and healthy fat content provide consistent energy. Known to the Aztec culture as 'the running food,' just one tablespoon of Chia was believed to sustain an Aztec warrior for a whole day! Think what this means for you... All you need to do is sprinkle a little Chia over each meal and you've got your self a natural energy kick.
6. Athletes (Hydration)
Another benefit of the chia seed gel is that it helps endurance athletes stay hydrated. Any liquids drunk before, during, or after exercise will stay in the body for longer. High in protein, chia seed also helps build strong muscles the natural way.
7. Antioxidants
Chia is a great antioxidant source with an ORAC of about 9900 (exceptionally high for a seed!). Not only do these antioxidants help you to fight disease and defy age naturally, they also naturally prevent the seeds from going off, giving Chia an amazingly long shelf life when stored in its natural, dry state.
8. Environmentally friendly
The high oil content in the leaves of the Chia plant acts as an extremely potent and natural insect repellent, eliminating the need for the use of nasty chemicals and pesticides to protect the crop.
9. Nutrition Packed
As well as Omega 3, fibre and protein, Chia is packed full of vitamins and minerals including most B vitamins, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, boron and copper. Adding to this Chia has 5x more calcium than milk, 3x more iron than spinach and 15x more magnesium than broccoli! This truly is one amazing superfood that packs a punch so strong it is virtually unmatched in its nutritious profile!
10. Taste, Flavour & Fun
Just when you thought Chia couldn’t get any better, it is arguably one of the most diverse superfoods available. Since they have virtually no flavour of their own and actually enhance the flavours of the foods with which they are combined, the uses for Chia are limitless!!! You can even bake with less fat by exchanging half the amount of butter in your recipe for the Chia gel! Perfect for making any Christmas treats more nutritious AND low GI.
The Benefits of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is probably one of the most versatile oils, since it has found a place in the medical, culinary, cosmetic and weight loss industries. This rich oil is extracted from the kernel of a matured coconut and comprises of saturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, poly-phenols, fatty acid derivatives, vitamins and minerals.
Coconut oil has a large number of amazing benefits for skin hair and weight loss, which is why it has gained such popularity in the cosmetics industry. It is an important ingredient in many hair care products and skin creams, pertaining to its excellent moisturizing and anti-bacterial properties.
Aside from being a good skin moisturizer, coconut oil is used medically in the treatment of skin infections like psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema. Many anti itch creams include coconut oil as a main ingredient, because it has anti inflammatory properties that help in healing stingy insect bites. Coconut oil is also a powerful healer for burns, sore muscles and bruises and it is an excellent mosquito repellent. This is because, the medium chained fatty acids of coconut oil are quite potent and have the ability to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. This tropical oil also happens to be an amazing stress reliever and its antioxidant properties help in boosting the body's immune system and prevent premature aging.
Coconut oil also has some anti fungal and antibacterial properties, as well as a high Vitamin E content. It is a great tonic for hair growth that helps mitigating hair loss and repairing weak or damaged hair. This oil also moisturizes the scalp and replenishes hair follicles, keeping away dandruff, flaky skin and lice.
Research has shown that the unsaturated fat content in coconut oil is a metabolism booster, because it stimulates the thyroid gland. Coconut oil is a known natural detox food, which helps in a complete body cleanse and maintaining regular bowel movements. There is a well-known diet among weight loss groups that is based around coconut oil.
Coconut oils have such a versatile set of advantages - use it on a regular basis to start enjoying its limitless benefits.
Coconut oil has a large number of amazing benefits for skin hair and weight loss, which is why it has gained such popularity in the cosmetics industry. It is an important ingredient in many hair care products and skin creams, pertaining to its excellent moisturizing and anti-bacterial properties.
Aside from being a good skin moisturizer, coconut oil is used medically in the treatment of skin infections like psoriasis, dermatitis and eczema. Many anti itch creams include coconut oil as a main ingredient, because it has anti inflammatory properties that help in healing stingy insect bites. Coconut oil is also a powerful healer for burns, sore muscles and bruises and it is an excellent mosquito repellent. This is because, the medium chained fatty acids of coconut oil are quite potent and have the ability to kill harmful bacteria and viruses. This tropical oil also happens to be an amazing stress reliever and its antioxidant properties help in boosting the body's immune system and prevent premature aging.
Coconut oil also has some anti fungal and antibacterial properties, as well as a high Vitamin E content. It is a great tonic for hair growth that helps mitigating hair loss and repairing weak or damaged hair. This oil also moisturizes the scalp and replenishes hair follicles, keeping away dandruff, flaky skin and lice.
Research has shown that the unsaturated fat content in coconut oil is a metabolism booster, because it stimulates the thyroid gland. Coconut oil is a known natural detox food, which helps in a complete body cleanse and maintaining regular bowel movements. There is a well-known diet among weight loss groups that is based around coconut oil.
Coconut oils have such a versatile set of advantages - use it on a regular basis to start enjoying its limitless benefits.
As many of us already know, the benefits of coconut Oil are numerous. As Coconut oil has a light non-greasy taste as well as a sweet, earthy smell it is a firm favorite amongst many health conscious people and vegans when cooking. Coconut oil is can be used to fry and stir fry vegetables, eggs, poultry, fish and meat and gives a light flavor to food. Coconut oil can be used to make mayonnaise and salad dressings. Coconut oil is often added to smoothies or health drinks and can be used as a substitute for virtually any recipe that includes oil.
The sweet vanilla and nutty flavor of coconut oil makes it ideal to use in baking at home. Many snack foods such as health bars, cereals, infant foods and even popcorn, are made with partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated coconut oil.
Coconut oil contains the same amount of Lauric Acid that is found in breast milk. Lauric Acid in coconut oil is said to be a natural germ fighter that strengthens the immune system and helps the body to fight various harmful germs and diseases. For this and many other health boosting reasons, coconut oil is also available in capsule form.
Coconut oil can even be used in your pet’s diet to assist them with various health issues. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to your pet’s food daily will help your overweight pet lose weight and make their coat soft and shiny. Coconut oil can also be used to rid your pet of ear mites as well as soothe skin problems that they might be experiencing.
By substituting your regular moisturizer with coconut oil, your skin will become softer and the coconut oil will also help repair and heal your skin as well as protect it against damage. Many hair professionals use coconut oil to soften the scalp and hair. Coconut oil can also be used to treat dandruff effectively.
The sweet vanilla and nutty flavor of coconut oil makes it ideal to use in baking at home. Many snack foods such as health bars, cereals, infant foods and even popcorn, are made with partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated coconut oil.
Coconut oil contains the same amount of Lauric Acid that is found in breast milk. Lauric Acid in coconut oil is said to be a natural germ fighter that strengthens the immune system and helps the body to fight various harmful germs and diseases. For this and many other health boosting reasons, coconut oil is also available in capsule form.
Coconut oil can even be used in your pet’s diet to assist them with various health issues. Adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to your pet’s food daily will help your overweight pet lose weight and make their coat soft and shiny. Coconut oil can also be used to rid your pet of ear mites as well as soothe skin problems that they might be experiencing.
By substituting your regular moisturizer with coconut oil, your skin will become softer and the coconut oil will also help repair and heal your skin as well as protect it against damage. Many hair professionals use coconut oil to soften the scalp and hair. Coconut oil can also be used to treat dandruff effectively.
Goji Berries
2006 was the first year that South African customers were exposed to goji berries – the highly nutritious “SUPERFOOD”. What makes these super berries so amazing that they have remained popular for so long, even through a global recession in South Africa and worldwide? Let me remind you of the many benefits…
Goji berries grow on an evergreen shrub found in temperate and subtropical regions in China, Mongolia and in the Himalayas in Tibet. They are in the nightshade (Solonaceae) family.
Goji berries grow on an evergreen shrub found in temperate and subtropical regions in China, Mongolia and in the Himalayas in Tibet. They are in the nightshade (Solonaceae) family.
Natural Multi-vitamin
Goji berries are basically a natural multi-vitamin with added extras – one of the highest known sources of antioxidants, a range of B vitamins, more Vitamin C than oranges, Vitamin E, more beta-carotene than carrots, a complete protein source (all essential amino acids), essential fatty acids, more iron than red meat and most intriguing of all is the low GI glycoprotein complex known as LBP (lycium barbarum polysaccharides).
Research has shown that vitamins in their natural form and consumed in wholefoods, are more bio-available and more easily absorbed. This is why we recommend people eat healthy foods especially superfoods, such as goji berries, to boost nutrients that are lacking.
Benefits:
How to use:
Goji berries are traditionally used in the East for teas, juices and some alcoholic beverages (not recommended), whereas in South Africa it is often used in smoothies, mueslis, chutneys, muffins, snack, coated in dark coated chocolate or adventurous cooking recipes.
I put them in my salads, and you can soak them over night and add to your porridge.
Delish!!!
Goji berries are basically a natural multi-vitamin with added extras – one of the highest known sources of antioxidants, a range of B vitamins, more Vitamin C than oranges, Vitamin E, more beta-carotene than carrots, a complete protein source (all essential amino acids), essential fatty acids, more iron than red meat and most intriguing of all is the low GI glycoprotein complex known as LBP (lycium barbarum polysaccharides).
Research has shown that vitamins in their natural form and consumed in wholefoods, are more bio-available and more easily absorbed. This is why we recommend people eat healthy foods especially superfoods, such as goji berries, to boost nutrients that are lacking.
Benefits:
- protect the liver
- help eyesight
- improve sexual function and fertility
- strengthen the legs
- boost immune function
- improve circulation
- promote longevity
How to use:
Goji berries are traditionally used in the East for teas, juices and some alcoholic beverages (not recommended), whereas in South Africa it is often used in smoothies, mueslis, chutneys, muffins, snack, coated in dark coated chocolate or adventurous cooking recipes.
I put them in my salads, and you can soak them over night and add to your porridge.
Delish!!!
The wonderful benefits of Sunflower Seeds
These little capsules of tastyness are so so so! good for you. Try sprinkle some over your salads, delish!
Here are a few of their health benefits:
Sunflowers are an exceptional source of vitamin E, which plays a very important role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps keep free radicals from oxidizing cholesterol. Only when oxidized is cholesterol able to stick to blood vessel walls and cause atherosclerosis, which can lead to blocked arteries, heart attack, or stroke. You can get over ninety
percent of the daily value for vitamin E in only a quarter of a cup of sunflower seeds.
Anti-Inflammatory
Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E, the body's primary fat-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E travels throughout the body neutralizing free radicals that would otherwise damage fat-containing structures and molecules, such as cell membranes, brain cells, and cholesterol. By protecting these cellular and molecular components, vitamin E has significant anti-inflammatory effects that result in the reduction of symptoms in asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, conditions where free radicals and inflammation play a big role.
Cancer Prevention
Sunflower seeds are a good source of selenium. Studies suggest a strong correlation between low selenium intake and cancer incidence. Selenium has been shown to induce DNA repair and synthesis in damaged cells, to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, and to induce their apoptosis, the self-destruct mechanism the body uses to get rid of worn out or abnormal cells. In addition, selenium is incorporated at the active site of many proteins, including glutathione peroxidase, which is particularly important for protection against cancer. One of the body's strongest antioxidant enzymes, glutathione peroxidase is used by the liver to detoxify a great many harmful molecules. When levels of glutathione peroxidase are low, these toxic molecules wreak havoc on any cells they come in contact with, damaging their DNA and prompting the development of cancer cells. One quarter of a cup provides over thirty percent of the daily value for selenium. The vitamin E so abundant in sunflower seeds has also been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer.
Bone Health
Sunflower seeds are particularly rich in magnesium. It’s a well-known fact that calcium is necessary for strong bones, but magnesium is too. Most of the magnesium in the human body is in our bones. Some of it helps lend bones their physical structure, and the rest is located on the surface of the bone where it is stored for the body to use as it needs. Copper found in sunflower seeds is vital for the function of enzymes involved in cross-linking collagen and elastin, providing strength and flexibility in bones and joints. Vitamin E also imparts anti-inflammatory properties to sunflower seeds, effective in the reduction of arthritis symptoms.
Good for the Nerves
By preventing calcium from rushing into nerve cells and activating them, magnesium keeps our nerves relaxed and thereby our blood
vessels and muscles too. Too little magnesium means too much calcium can gain entrance to the nerve cell, causing it to send too many messages, and leading to too much contraction. Insufficient magnesium leads to higher blood pressure, muscle tension, migraine headaches, soreness and fatigue. Not surprising that studies have demonstrated magnesium helps diminish the frequency of migraine attacks, lowers blood pressure and helps prevent heart attacks. Sunflower seeds also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, an important neurotransmitter. Serotonin relieves tension, calms the brain and promotes relaxation.
Skin Protection
Vitamin E has sometimes been described as the "lightning rod" of the cell, allowing reactive molecules to strike the cell, like lightning, without causing damage. This function of vitamin E is particularly apparent in the case of the skin, since vitamin E directly protects
the skin from ultraviolet radiation. In many studies, vitamin E applied topically has been shown to prevent UV damage. A diet containing vitamin E-rich foods promotes this same protective effect.
Here are a few of their health benefits:
Sunflowers are an exceptional source of vitamin E, which plays a very important role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps keep free radicals from oxidizing cholesterol. Only when oxidized is cholesterol able to stick to blood vessel walls and cause atherosclerosis, which can lead to blocked arteries, heart attack, or stroke. You can get over ninety
percent of the daily value for vitamin E in only a quarter of a cup of sunflower seeds.
Anti-Inflammatory
Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E, the body's primary fat-soluble antioxidant. Vitamin E travels throughout the body neutralizing free radicals that would otherwise damage fat-containing structures and molecules, such as cell membranes, brain cells, and cholesterol. By protecting these cellular and molecular components, vitamin E has significant anti-inflammatory effects that result in the reduction of symptoms in asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, conditions where free radicals and inflammation play a big role.
Cancer Prevention
Sunflower seeds are a good source of selenium. Studies suggest a strong correlation between low selenium intake and cancer incidence. Selenium has been shown to induce DNA repair and synthesis in damaged cells, to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells, and to induce their apoptosis, the self-destruct mechanism the body uses to get rid of worn out or abnormal cells. In addition, selenium is incorporated at the active site of many proteins, including glutathione peroxidase, which is particularly important for protection against cancer. One of the body's strongest antioxidant enzymes, glutathione peroxidase is used by the liver to detoxify a great many harmful molecules. When levels of glutathione peroxidase are low, these toxic molecules wreak havoc on any cells they come in contact with, damaging their DNA and prompting the development of cancer cells. One quarter of a cup provides over thirty percent of the daily value for selenium. The vitamin E so abundant in sunflower seeds has also been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer.
Bone Health
Sunflower seeds are particularly rich in magnesium. It’s a well-known fact that calcium is necessary for strong bones, but magnesium is too. Most of the magnesium in the human body is in our bones. Some of it helps lend bones their physical structure, and the rest is located on the surface of the bone where it is stored for the body to use as it needs. Copper found in sunflower seeds is vital for the function of enzymes involved in cross-linking collagen and elastin, providing strength and flexibility in bones and joints. Vitamin E also imparts anti-inflammatory properties to sunflower seeds, effective in the reduction of arthritis symptoms.
Good for the Nerves
By preventing calcium from rushing into nerve cells and activating them, magnesium keeps our nerves relaxed and thereby our blood
vessels and muscles too. Too little magnesium means too much calcium can gain entrance to the nerve cell, causing it to send too many messages, and leading to too much contraction. Insufficient magnesium leads to higher blood pressure, muscle tension, migraine headaches, soreness and fatigue. Not surprising that studies have demonstrated magnesium helps diminish the frequency of migraine attacks, lowers blood pressure and helps prevent heart attacks. Sunflower seeds also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, an important neurotransmitter. Serotonin relieves tension, calms the brain and promotes relaxation.
Skin Protection
Vitamin E has sometimes been described as the "lightning rod" of the cell, allowing reactive molecules to strike the cell, like lightning, without causing damage. This function of vitamin E is particularly apparent in the case of the skin, since vitamin E directly protects
the skin from ultraviolet radiation. In many studies, vitamin E applied topically has been shown to prevent UV damage. A diet containing vitamin E-rich foods promotes this same protective effect.
Your Chakras
Here is a really nice picture, to show you where your Chakra's are, aswell as an informative sheet below. I have decide to be more aware of my energy these days, maybe you will too.
Morning Yoga Routine
I would like to encourage my readers to introduce an early morning Yoga routine to their day. You won't believe how amazing you'll feel after just one practice of Yoga. It is such a beautiful practice, and would reccomend it to everyone, young or old. Here is a nice picture that illustrates a simle beginners routine
If you are still a little unsure what to do, there is quite a nice little video sequence on this website:
http://www.abc-of-yoga.com/yogapractice/sunsalutation.asp
Remeber to breathe, and be aware of your breath. You will feel wonderful afterwards, and ready to take on the day ahead.
http://www.abc-of-yoga.com/yogapractice/sunsalutation.asp
Remeber to breathe, and be aware of your breath. You will feel wonderful afterwards, and ready to take on the day ahead.
A Good Day!!!
Let every day be a good day. As vital factors in our everyday lives, always remember to:
Eat
Drink
Breathe
Think
Everything you eat and drink will eventually become your blood, so what did you make your blood from today? What goodness did you send to each and every single cell in your body.
To a Healthy Lifestyle :-)
Eat
Drink
Breathe
Think
Everything you eat and drink will eventually become your blood, so what did you make your blood from today? What goodness did you send to each and every single cell in your body.
To a Healthy Lifestyle :-)
Welcome
Thank you for visiting my Blog.
May you find many helpful hints, tips and extra knowledge to help you through your transition into healthy living and eating.
Life is too short to live un-healthy, and once you've felt how good it feels to live healthily, you'll Never! look back.
Welcome to the wonderful and delicious world of Healthy Nutrition!!!
May you find many helpful hints, tips and extra knowledge to help you through your transition into healthy living and eating.
Life is too short to live un-healthy, and once you've felt how good it feels to live healthily, you'll Never! look back.
Welcome to the wonderful and delicious world of Healthy Nutrition!!!