Hydrate!

Remember, if you drink caffeine it dehydrates the body.  It negates the health benefits of consuming water.  Double it up...for every cup of coffee, drink 2 cups of water to make up for it.  Thanks to the HealthCorps for the reminder!

Health

Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit.  When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open.  ~B.K.S. Iyengar

Two Requirements When It Comes To Exercise

There are really only two requirements when it comes to exercise. One is that you do it. The other is that you continue to do it. ~The New Glucose Revolution for Diabetes by Jennie Brand-Miller, Kaye Foster-Powell, Stephen Colagiuri, Alan W. Barclay

Exercise

The only exercise some people get is jumping to conclusions, running down their friends, side-stepping responsibility, and pushing their luck! ~ Author Unknown

Food Should Be Simple

 "Food should be simple, imaginative, digestible, and healthy. It should be good for our bodies, good for our minds, and enrich the soul." - Paul Newman 

Tomatoes

http://www.antioxidants-guide.com/health_benefit_of_tomato.html

Ahhhh....Tomatoes!  Summer is here and soon tomatoes will be ripening.  Nothing says Summer like a juicy, red tomato that has been allowed to ripen on the vine.
Not only are tomatoes delicious, but they are considered a superfood when it comes to dishing up their fair share of antioxidents.  Discover the health benefits of these summer delights in the attached article.

http://www.antioxidants-guide.com/health_benefit_of_tomato.html

Cathe Friedrich - It’s Squeaky, It’s Slippery, It’s Bland, and You Should Be Eating More of It

Cottage Cheese!  

Cathe Friedrich - It’s Squeaky, It’s Slippery, It’s Bland, and You Should Be Eating More of It

10 Foods That Help Fight Inflammation

10 Foods That Help Fight Inflammation

Tumeric (Spice)

Fresh Ginger Root

Pineapple

Garlic

Sweet Potato

Spinach

Walnuts

Wild Caught Salmon

Onions

Blueberries

How to Fight Inflammation with Food | eHow.com

Orthorexia Is The Latest Eating Disorder Doing The Rounds!

Orthorexia Is The Latest Eating Disorder Doing The Rounds!

Cinnamon: Shape Magazine

Cinnamon

This spice has been shown to keep blood sugar levels in check by helping the body metabolize glucose faster. It adds a warm, sweet flavor to foods. Try cinnamon on oatmeal, sweet potatoes, winter squash, and carrots. You can also add some to couscous, or use it as a part of rub on chicken or pork.  I love to add cinnamon to unsweetened vanilla flavored Almond milk, a banana, a scoop of natural vanilla protein powder, a scoop of GreensSuperFood  and a bit of flax seed for a delicious, nutritious post workout drink.  

Cinnamon: Shape Magazine

Earth Fare - A Customer's Review

A new grocer has opened in my area!  I just thought I would share my thoughts on my visit to this unique supermarket new to Ohio.  I am passionate about eating clean and healthy.  The food I eat and prepare for others must be fresh and free from pesticides, additives, food coloring, and the healthiest I can buy.  I was excited when I heard of the opening of this new concept supermarket where you could find, not just locally grown produce in season, but foods free from unwanted growth hormones, chemicals, high fructose corn syrup and preservatives.  The Grand Opening of the new Earth Fare Supermarket enticed me to attend on the first day they opened the doors.

The store was brimming with activity.  Upon entering, I was very impressed with the selection of fresh produce that greeted me from both sides of the store. Each and every aisle had an impressive selection of foods.  Everywhere you turned were healthy choices. What I loved most was the freedom of not spending precious time reading each label, scanning for unwanted ingredients before making my selections. Many of the foods I consume on a daily basis don't have labels or upc codes ( fresh fruit and vegetables.)  It gives me a sense of relief and trust knowing those times I do choose a product that comes in a bag or can it is free from "garbage." This new found "freedom" actually allowed me to enjoy my shopping experience on a new level.

The supplement section had very knowledgeable staff to assist with selection.  They also had a nice variety of products to choose from.  Kudos to the folks in that department.  I shopped twice in one week at the store and both times had tremendous help.  Thanks for the recommendation of the GreensSuperFood!  Love it! (See my previous blog about that product)

The store is not just healthy, but FUN!  It was a pleasure shopping with you. I will be back. I have been recommending you to all of my colleagues and friends.  Welcome Home!

https://www.facebook.com/EarthFareFairlawn

Blueberries

Ahh, Blueberries!  One of my seasonal favorites.  They are considered by many to be a SuperFood!  Loaded with antioxidants and a powerhouse of other health benefits, blueberries are one food I enjoy daily. These little blue gems are known to fight off a host of disease, such as Alzheimer's. Fresh, local berries are just beginning to show up on the grocer's shelves and local produce aisles. I cannot seem to get enough of these, especially when they are so sweet and fresh.  I will be purchasing as many as my freezer will allow for future enjoyment.  Delicious on hot, steaming bowls of oatmeal, on top of Greek yogurt, baked in your favorite cobbler or just eaten plain.  Blueberries are on the list of the top ten healthiest foods.  I have included an information packed article loaded with recipes.  Enjoy!

http://www.ebfarm.com/Recipes/index.aspx#feature

Balsamic Glazed Halibut with Roasted Vegetables & Butternut Squash Potatoes

Balsamic Glazed Halibut with Roasted Vegetables & Butternut Squash Potatoes

Bulgur Eggplant Parmesan

Bulgur Eggplant Parmesan

Cathe Friedrich - 4 Common Causes of Water Retention and Water Weight Gain

Cathe Friedrich - 4 Common Causes of Water Retention and Water Weight Gain

It's Monday!  It's no wonder we sometimes dread this notorious first day of the work week. Many of us eat healthy all week long, only to partake in guilty pleasures once the weekend arrives.  Our guard is let down and we eat foods we normally wouldn't even consider eating the rest of the week.  After all the hard work and exercise, we deserve a treat. We have exercised our bodies and maxed out our will power hence,  a cheat meal is our reward.  We head into Monday wondering why we feel so bloated and miserable.   I woke up this morning feeling bloated and puffy-eyed wondering what was wrong.  Normally, I eat very clean and healthy. I seldom eat salt or sodium loaded foods.  I never eat fast food or anything fried.  So what was going on?  It occurred to me that the sushi and sashimi I had eaten on Sunday was enjoyed with a bit of soy sauce.  Even though it was the low sodium version, my body was telling me that the sodium was an unwelcome guest.   I learned my lesson the hard way.  It does matter what we eat.  I had to share this timely article with you about water retention and water weight gain.  Read and enjoy!

GreensSuperFood

I thought I would share a product that I just purchased at the new Earth Fare store that opened in my area.  It is called GreenSuperFood by Amazing Grass.  This is an amazing product that comes in a variety of delicious flavors, or like the product in the photo, you can purchase the all natural powder.  Perfect for a super and healthy smoothie!  I tried mixing with just 100% Coconut Water for a super hydrating drink after my workout.  I am so impressed with the product, I had to share it with you.  I will be trying it next with unsweetened Almond Milk or unsweetened Soy Milk and berries for a yummy and healthy SuperFoods drink.  The Smoothie possibilities are endless and strictly a matter of personal taste and what ingredients you want added to your daily diet for optimal nutrition.

The product is also available at Whole Foods as well as the Vitamin Shoppe, to name just a few.  By submitting your zip code in the web site, they will inform you where you may purchase the product in your area.

This information is from the Amazing Grass website:

Amazing Grass Green SuperFood is our premium blend of organic superfoods. Our all natural drink powder supports body alkalinity, boosts energy and immune system, and is vegan and gluten free.

Our Green SuperFood is blended to perfection in a delicious tasting powder that mixes well with juice, water or your favorite beverage. One serving gives you the antioxidant equivalent of 7 servings of fruits and vegetables. A full spectrum of alkalizing green superfoods, antioxidant rich fruits, and support herbs, unite with Acai and Maca to provide a powerful dose of whole food nutrition.

Product Highlights:
* Helps you achieve your recommended 5 to 9 daily servings of fruits and vegetables
* Naturally detoxifies and boosts your immune system
* Probiotics and Enzymes to aid digestion and absorption
* Complete raw food with powerful antioxidants
* Alkaline green plant foods help balance acidic pH levels
* Contains 70% Organic ingredients
* More organic whole leaf greens per gram than any other green superfood
* Featuring Sambazon organic pure acai powder
* No soy lecithin fillers
* Nitrogen packed for freshness

Here is their website address:

http://www.amazinggrass.com/index.html

Cathe Friedrich - Raw Spinach vs. Cooked Spinach: Which Is Healthier?

Cathe Friedrich - Raw Spinach vs. Cooked Spinach: Which Is Healthier?

Mexican Egg Scramble

Eggs are a powerhouse of low cost, high quality protein  that can be enjoyed for any meal of the day.   Eggs are considered to be a "perfect" protein and available year round.  To make this recipe, or any egg recipe even "cleaner" and more heart healthy, try using all egg whites. Most of the cholesterol is found in the egg's yolk.  Eggs are a nutritious and delicious way to up your intake of protein.




http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/quick-recipes/breakfast/easy-healthy-egg-recipes/?page=2http://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/quick-recipes/breakfast/easy-healthy-egg-recipes/?page=2

Cinco de Mayo Oatmeal - Fort Worth healthy food | Examiner.com

Cinco de Mayo Oatmeal - Fort Worth healthy food | Examiner.com



Oatmeal is one of healthiest ways to start your morning.  It is considered by many to be a Super Food and with plenty of evidence to back up that claim. I found this recipe that turns a powerhouse food into a fun celebration in honor of Cinco de Mayo.  Enjoy!

Cinco de Mayo Recipe

Guacamole

Vegetarian Times Issue: May 1, 2009   p.74   —   Member Rating: 

Homemade guacamole is easy and absolutely essential for a Mexican feast. Puréeing the onion in a food processor releases its juices and keeps the guacamole smooth. 

Ingredient List

Makes 2 cups

• 2 avocados, halved
• 1/2 small white onion, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 3–4 drops hot sauce, such as Cholula

Directions

Purée onion in food processor until smooth. Mash onion purée with avocados, lime juice, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Per 2-Tbs. serving: Calories: 31, Protein: <1g, Total fat: 3g, Saturated fat: <1g, Carbs: 2g, Cholesterol: mg, Sodium: 39mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugars: <1

Not only are Avocados a great source of Potassium, but they are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids which aid in all sorts of inflammatory disease.  These gems also help promote blood sugar regulation.  

Potassium Rich Foods

Most people who eat a balanced, healthy diet should have adequate potassium levels in their bodies naturally. However, we all know that most people do not eat a balanced diet and eat too many processed foods and not enough whole grains, fruits and vegetables. The result is that many people have lower than normal levels of potassium in their bodies.

Low potassium levels can result in high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, cancer, as well as digestive disorders. You may be at risk if you have a high pressure job, smoke, use alcohol or drugs, are an athlete, or use certain diuretics and other prescription drugs.

We are back to the simple fact that eating a well balanced diet, rich in assorted fresh fruits and vegetables, can help fuel the body with the necessary nutrients to keep us performing at optimum levels. Choosing organic and locally grown produce will also keep our bodies free from unwanted and harmful chemicals. The less processed and prepackaged food we eat, the less apt we are to be deficient in the necessary vitamins and minerals our bodies need to function.

Here is a list of some foods high in potassium and their potassium content from the USDA National Nutrient Database:

Potassium Rich Foods	Weight	Measure	Potassium Content
Raw, baby carrots	10	1 medium	24 mg
Raw Lettuce	10	1 leaf	19 mg
Raw Onions	14	1 slice	20 mg
Fresh Strawberries	12	1 strawberry	18 mg
Raw Garlic	3	1 clove	12 mg
Honey	21	1 tablespoon	11 mg
Raw Radishes	4.5	1 radish	10 mg
Raw Peppers	10	1 ring	18 mg
White Bread	23	1 slice	17 mg
Papayas	304	1 papaya	781 mg
Lima Beans	188	1 cup	955 mg
Plantains	179	1 medium	893 mg
Jerusalem Artichokes	150	1 cup	644 mg
Bananas	118	1 banana	422 mg
Oat Bran	94	1 cup	532 mg
Tomatoes	255	1 cup	528 mg
Cucumber	301	1 large	442 mg
Cantaloupe	160	1 cup	427 mg
Pears	275	1 pear	333 mg
Mangoes	207	1 mango	323 mg

Keep in mind that cooking, such as boiling, can destroy the potassium levels in some of these foods.

Tosca Reno: RAW APPLE CIDER AND AB DEFINITION

Tosca Reno: RAW APPLE CIDER AND AB DEFINITION: "My ACV and Eat-Clean abs baby! Yes those are my abs and no I have not taken steroids to get them. Instead I have been learning how a ..."

Welcome!

My passion is Health, Nutrition and Fitness.  I love living it.   I love learning about it . I love talking about it. This area will be a place to share some of those things I have learned. New products, healthy recipes, and fitness tips will be topics here.