Perpetually Evolving - Wellness with Allisa Love

COVID Immunity Boosting Tips for Winter 2020

2020-11-30T11:02:00.010-05:00

Exercise, Sunlight, & Rest is great for keeping your Immune System Healthy. Self-Care is extremely important, especially this time of year!

Drink What Is Good For You:

Anti-inflammatory teas, such as Elderberry, Turmeric, and Echinacea

Emergen-C (1,000 mg of Vitamin C)

Ayurvedic Supplements: Triphala & Ashwaganda

Coconut Water (Increases Electrolytes)

(*Reduce Alcohol & Caffeine consumption, as they are are diuretic/ dehydrating.)

Vital Vitamin-Rich Supplements

Vitamin

Vitamin D3

Zinc

Vitamin B-6

Eat Healthy

Focus on flavonoids with Anti-Viral Properties:

Catechins and epicatechin gallate (green tea)
Hesperidin (citrus fruits)
Kaempferol (spinach, dill, cabbage).
Lauric acid (unrefined virgin coconut oil)
Oleuropein (olives and extra virgin olive oil)
Quercetin (dill, onion, oregano, chili pepper, apples, leafy greens, broccoli)

Incorporate Immune-boosting Herbs and Spices

Chili pepper, oregano, rosemary, or turmeric
Fresh garlic and ginger

Incorporate Prebiotic and Probiotic Foods

Apples, bananas, burdock root, jicama root, Jerusalem artichokes, Konjac root
Dandelion greens
Flaxseed
Kefir
Kimchi
Miso
Seaweed
Tempeh

Reduce Meat & Dairy Consumption

Red Meat & Dairy increases mucus production in the body, therefore it's best to reduce or avoid red meat & dairy in order to reduce inflammation.

SLEEP

Sleep is extremely important for your body fight off infections & stay healthy. Sleep deprivation effects our memory & weakens our immune system.

Melatonin (1-5 mg) can help improve sleep cycles. (*Studies have shown that higher doses of melatonin, around 20-50 mg up to twice daily, may be helpful in reducing inflammation in the lungs and promote better breathing in those who are sick with coronavirus)

EXERCISE

Schedule time to get outside (weather permitting) &/or exercise indoors. Make exercising fun by dancing, using a new exercise video, walking / running with your dog(s) &/or kid(s) for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Watch this Simple Yoga Stretch Video I created a couple years ago that EVERY Body can utilize to get your oxygen & blood flowing!

B-R-E-A-T-H-E

Top 10 Vegan 🌱 Protein Sources

2019-02-01T20:33:00.003-05:00

Protein Sources from Plants 🌱

Many people believe that animals are the main way to consume protein, yet there are many healthier, plant-based protein sources available.

1. Black Beans

Protein content: 1 cup = 15 g
Black beans also have fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin B6 and lots of phytonutrients.

(* Canned beans are hard to digest as they will contain phytic acid which is hard to break down with people who have comprised digestion. Phytic acid impairs the absorption of iron, zinc and calcium. It may contribute to mineral deficiencies over time, but this is rarely a problem for those following well-balanced diets. All Beans contain oligosaccharides, a sugar that’s hard to digest.)

Black beans and lentils are the easiest beans to digest.

Great in: Tacos, Veggie Burgers, Chili, Soup

2. Lima Beans

Protein content: 1 cup = 14g protein
Lima Beans provide a great source of minerals, such as iron, copper, manganese, calcium and magnesium. (They are also the ‘beans that have the most potassium’.)

Great for: Veggie Burgers, Soup

3. Almonds

Protein content: 1/4 cp = 12g protein in ¼ cup serving of almonds

Almonds are rich in energy (574 calories per 100g) and contain nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins that are essential to your body.

Great for: Salads, Snacking, Almond Milk

Almond butter is a great alternative to Peanut Butter. Almond Butter goes great with apples, pears, bananas, smoothies, or oatmeal.

4. Quinoa

Protein content: 1 cp = 8 grams

Quinoa is gluten-free, high in protein and one of a few plants that contains all nine essential amino acids. Quinoa is high in fiber, magnesium, B-vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, Vitamin E and many crucial antioxidants. Quinoa also has a very low glycemic index, which is good for blood sugar control.

Great for: Quinoa is wonderful in salad, stews & soups. You can also substitute quinoa for ground beef in a burger.

5. Buckwheat

Protein content: 1 cp = 6 grams

Contrary to its name, buckwheat is actually a fruit seed and not related to wheat. Energizing. Buckwheat is a gluten-free power food and a great source of easily-digestible proteins.

Buckwheat contains minerals including: manganese, copper, magnesium, & phosphorus.

Great for: Pancakes, Granola, Cereal

6. Soybean

Protein content: 1 cp = 18g
Soybeans contain a lot of essential amino acids. It’s important to choose

“Organic” Soybeans, as many soybeans in America are Genetically Modified. Soy also contains a lot of “B-Vitamins”.

Great for: Meat & Dairy Subsitutes

7. Organic Tempeh

Protein content: 100 g Tempeh = 20g of protein

Tempeh is a rich source of complete protein. It is made by fermenting cooked soybeans and shaping it into a dense cake that can be sliced and pan-fried like

tofu. Tempeh contains more fiber and protein than tofu, and because it’s been
fermented, it’s easier to digest (than ‘Soy’).

Great for: Meat substitutes. Great for marinating, due to its dense consistency.

8. Hemp Seed

Protein content: 100 g = 31g of protein

Hemp seed contains all 22 known amino acids. (This includes 9 essential aminos that our body cannot produce on it’s own and must take from dietary sources.) Hemp is pexcellent 3:1 balance of omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids. Hemp seeds are also high in magnesium, a mineral that helps with relaxation, blood sugar control and blood pressure.

Great for: Smoothies, Cereals

9. Hummus

Protein content: 100g = 8 grams

Hummus is a great source of dietary fiber and is a low-glycemic index food. You can make hummus with a can of chickpeas, a garlic clove, extra virgin olive oil, tahini, lemon juice and salt. Blend all ingredients.

Great for:: Veggie Dip, Sandwich Spread

10. Jackfruit

Protein content: 1 cup = 3 gram

Young jackfruit actually looks like meat and offers high levels potassium, calcium and iron. It has a very mild flavor

Great For: Vegan tacos, nachos, pulled ‘pork’ sandwiches, Tex-Mex, curry, and Asian dishes.

Let Food Be Thy Medicine via JUICE

2018-09-14T22:12:00.000-04:00

Juicing is a NATURAL way to receive NATURE'S Medicine!

Meet Dr. Produce

Juicing can prevent & alleviate many health conditions, including REVERSING serious illnesses, such as Cancer! (~I personally met someone who reversed her stage 3 Cancer by changing her eating habits & incorporating a healthy, lifestyle.)

There are many Documentaries (which can be found via Netflix) that confirm that 'Power of Eating RAW Food'. (Click here for an awesome list of 'Food for Health' documentaries, which include my favorites: Forks Over Knives, The Gerson Miracle, & Food Matters.)

Where to Begin:

When purchasing a Juicer, try to find one that will keep the fiber intact (such as a Vitamix, Ninja, or the Nutribullet. (~A typical 'Juicer' extracts the fiber, which can causes your blood sugar levels to rise.)

Making (preferably 'organic') Juice is an easy way to receive a variety of nutrients, vitamins, & minerals, including beneficial enzymes, antioxidants, & fiber. Many people all over the world choose to incorporate a glass or two of fresh vegetable / fruit juice into their daily diet.

By using organically grown produce you'll receive a greater nutritional density. Also, avoid pesticides and genetically modified produce (GMO = usually starts with the #8). Wash your produce thoroughly with a 'vegetable wash' or make your own by filling a spray bottle with 2 tbsp. Lemon Juice + 2 tbsp Vinegar +Water)

Peel Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Grapefruit, etc.), as they contain a toxic substance and taste bitter. Leave some of the thick white inside part of the peel, since it is rich in bioflavonoids & vitamin C. Also, *Always peel imported tropical fruits since they are usually sprayed with chemicals & remember to peel any fruits or veggies that have been waxed.

Remove pits (Cherries, Avocados, Peaches, etc.) before juicing.. ~Seeds can be juiced, except for apple seeds (which can be toxic).

*** Organic Baby Spinach can be added to almost any Juice drink to add additional Health Benefits. (*Note that Organic Baby Spinach has an extremely mild taste, which makes it undetectable in most Juice Drinks.) ****

Drink your juice as quickly as possible, as fresh juice tends to oxidize which causes the levels of nutrients to decline. Therefore, the fresher the juice - the more nutrients it will have.

RECIPES:

There are many recipes for a variety of Juices that can be found Online. Phone Apps have made it extremely convenient to pinpoint your Juice recipes by either 'Ingredients' or 'Health Condition'.

Spiced Carrot Cream

3 - Apples

2 - Carrots

1/2 inch - Ginger Root

*Acne, Aging, Back Aches, Bladders Infections, Blot Clots, Cellulite, Common Colds, Hangovers, Skin Conditions, Immune Booster, Headaches, Sore Throats, Sugar Cravings, Body Cleansing

Flawless Fresh Complexion

2 Spears - Pineapple

1/2 Cup - Cucumbers

1/2 Apple

*Acne, Age Spots, Eczema, Inflammation, Sore Throat

Deep Clean Cuisine

1/4 inch - Ginger Root

1 - Beet

1/2 Apple

4 Carrots

*Allergies, Alzheimer's Disease, Arthritis, Body Cleanser, Cancer Prevention, Hemorrhoids, Inflammation, Memory Loss, Sugar Cravings, Stress, Poor Circulation, Yeast Infection, Lose Weight

American Pie

3 - Apples

1tsp. - Cinnamon

*Sugar & Sour Cravings, Weight Loss

Mellow Minded

1 cp - Spinach

1 - Cucumber

2 - Carrots

*Headaches, Migraines

Pineapple Fizzle

2 - Oranges

1/4 - Lime

2 cps - Pineapple

3/4 cp - Sparkling Mineral Water (~Add after Juicing)

*Common Cold, Digestive Issues, Flu, Indigestion, Infections, Inflammation, Sore Throat

Sweet Tart Trio

2 - Apples

1 cp - Grapes

1 wedge - Lemon

*Anxiety, Aging, Alzheimer's Disease, Cravings (Sour), Dementia, Flu, Infections, Lyme Disease, Memory Loss

Apple Celery Cider

1 - Apple

1 stalk - Celery

*Anxiety, Body Cleansing, Brittle Hair, Cancer Prevention, Digestive Issues, Gout, Headaches, Immune Boosting, Immune Deficiency, Indigestion, Insomnia, Lifeless Hair, Migraines, Losing Weight, Ringing in Ears, Tinnitus, Skin Conditions

(***If you live in Eastern Connecticut and don't have time to Juice, please visit Biologic where you can order some AMAZING Juice products online, to be picked up in beautiful, Mystic, CT.)

Chia Seeds

2018-06-16T21:26:00.000-04:00

Salvia hispanica L., commonly known as Chia is a traditional food in Central & Southern America. It was also considered the staple food of the ancient Aztecs & Mayans. Chia is a member of the mint family and offers various health benefits, including maintain a healthy serum lipid level.

Chia is also considered a Superfood. Chia seeds grow abundantly in southern Mexico, They are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and protein. But what makes using chia seeds attractive for those looking to lose weight is their fiber content. Chia seeds contain a unique type of soluble fiber that expands by about nine times, creating a gel when combined with fluid. This gel helps to slow the absorption of carbohydrates you eat.

Nutritional Benefits

Chia is packed with nutrients—iron, calcium, selenium, manganese, B vitamins and protein. Chia is also a great vegetarian source of omega-3 fatty acids, a type of fat that most people don’t get enough of in their diets. Recent research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids are associated with a lower rate of obesity and may play a role in weight loss.

Chia seeds will provide you with long-term energy as it also helps regulate blood-sugar.

WATER - It's what your body NEEDS!!!

2015-09-15T18:38:00.000-04:00

The Many Benefits of Drinking (More) Water!

* Replenishes the body's cells, which allows them to maintain proper function.

* Increases Energy, while keeping your body cool. (Drinking water benefits energy levels by supplying fuel and regulating your body temperature.)

* Helps you maintain a Healthy, Body Weight. Drinking water regularly, helps to fill you up and has no calories. Drinking water also benefits the metabolism, by speeding it up. (Drinking an adequate amount of water each day will help flush out the toxins in our bodies, which will assist us by freeing up the added stressors on our kidneys & liver.)

* Helps your Digestion System by preventing constipation.

* Helps Reduce Pain. May help with relieve muscle cramps, headaches and pain in the lower back, which are symptoms of dehydration or chronic dehydration.

* Relieves Depression,, by elevating your Mood. When you drink the proper amounts of water, you discover your whole outlook on things gets better, by relieving depression symptoms & sleep disorders.

* Improves Brain Function by improving concentration.

* Improves Clarity of Skin, by hydrating your body & flushing out numerous daily, ingested toxins.

Healthy Strawberry (Kid Approved!) Lemonade

2014-06-20T11:39:00.000-04:00

3 Lemons, 6 Strawberries, 5 tbsp. Aloe Juice,
1/4 cp. *Coconut Sugar, 1 tbsp. *Raw Honey
Blend together & Enjoy
(* Add more sweetener, as desired) Vegan - Substitute “Agave”

Genetically Modified Foods in America | Health Documentary

2014-04-07T12:52:00.000-04:00

Avoid 'Genetically Modified Foods' (GMOs)! Reasons to Eat Organic Produce & Non-GMO Foods.

Perpetually Evolving - Tips on Living a Natural, Organic, Non-GMO Lifestyle

Watch the Above Video for the Dangers of T-O-X-I-C - GMOs

**** WARNING: This Video will change the way you view food, while Naturally Enhancing your HEALTH & QUALITY OF LIFE........ ****

Probiotics --- The "Good" Bacteria that starts in your GUT

2014-03-23T20:00:00.000-04:00

Probiotics are simply ‘friendly’ or ‘good’ bacteria that are found throughout your gut. They line your entire gut & if you ingest something that contains harmful bacteria, probiotics will destroy the 'bad' bacteria.

When the good bacteria gets reduced (i.e. antibiotics, low fiber intake, illness, etc.) it leaves you open to disease and inflammation. Common gut problems are diarrhea, bloating, abdominal cramping, and pains in the stomach.

You can introduce probiotics to the body by either taking supplements or eating certain foods. (The supplements are easily available online or in health food stores. Many foods contain probiotics such as yogurt, garlic, cheese, buttermilk and sour cream.)

Probiotics Will:

• Increase nutrient absorption, (the B vitamin range, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, etc.)

• Reduce inflammation in stomach (diarrhea, bloating, IBS, etc.)

• Help Lactose intolerant people by helping you to digest dairy (by releasing the enzyme lactase that is required to break down the sugar found in milk and its products.

• Relieve constipation / regulate bowel movements (even in children)

• Enhance Immune System (by attacking ‘unfriendly’ bacteria)

• Cure Yeast Infections

• Decrease Cholesterol (when taken regularly)

• Cleanse Colon

• Prevent Colds (by strengthening your immune system with 'good' bacteria)

Wheat Germ for Weight Loss, Fiber, Vitamins

2014-02-08T20:52:00.000-05:00

Wheat germ is a part of the wheat kernel. The germ is only a very small part of the kernel, approximately 2 ½ percent in total. The word germ does not have anything to do with bacteria; it simply refers to germination. The germ is the reproductive part that germinates and forms the wheat grass.

Wheat germ is a good source of fiber which has many benefits, which include

~ Improved bowel functions
~ Reduces Heart Disease & Diabetes, while preventing weight gain.
~ Lowered cholesterol and blood pressure
~ Helps elevate mood
~ High Protein (28% - more than most meats)
~ High in vitamin E - an antioxidant which is also good for the skin and anti-aging process

Wheat germ is a good source of:

* B vitamins such as folate, niacin, thiamin, and vitamin B6
* Calcium
* Complex carbs
* Fiber
* Folic Acid (great for Prenatal / pregnancy)
* Iron
* Magnesium
* Manganese
* Omega-3 fatty acids
* Phosphorous
* Potassium
* Protein
* Selenium
* Vitamin E
* Zinc

Nutrients:
Wheat germ contains many important nutrients, including healthy oils. Each ounce of toasted wheat germ--approximately 30 grams or 1/4 cup--contains 108 calories, 8.25 grams of protein, 4 grams of dietary fiber, 2 grams of sugar and 8 grams of starch. Each ounce provides 0.5 gram of monounsaturated fat and nearly 2 grams of polyunsaturated fat.

You can buy wheat germ health stores and many supermarkets. It can either be purchased in toasted or fresh form. (Because of the oils in wheat germ, it can become rancid if stored improperly. When you buy toasted wheat germ, check the expiration date on the package. Store wheat germ in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life. Once opened, it will last for about nine months in the refrigerator.)

How the Food you Eat affects your Chi

2013-11-29T20:16:00.000-05:00

Natural life force energy is believed to flow through all living beings, and in some cultures there is a natural energy believed to flow through everything.

The food you consume directly affects your Chi ('life energy' / 'vitality' / 'ambition') Overcooked, processed, chemically, &/or hormone-packed food depletes 'chi'. Try to avoid or at least limit fast / convenience food.

Caffeine & other stimulants also give us unhealthy energy through adrenaline. Caffeine triggers our adrenal glands, which puts our body into 'fight or flight' mode.

Chi builders are:
* organic produce & meats
* freshly cooked meals
* pure water
* raw foods
* sprouted grains
* green foods (barley, wheat grass, spirulina, chlorella)

Chi depleters are:
* fast food
* processed food
* coffee
* sugar
* alcohol

Natural: Avoid unrefined processed high-stress foods containing preservatives, artificial colors and flavors that delete Chi.

Locally Grown: If grown locally and in season the nature of the food's Chi should be in tune with the Chi of the local environment and is more likely to meet the body's needs.

80% Rule: For optimal Chi, eat until you are 80% full. Too much food can disorder Chi, not enough food weakens your Chi.

Hydration: Water is vital for life and for the creation of Chi, so make sure you replenish this daily.

In Season: Eat according to the season. In winter eat more pressure-cooked grains, roots and hearty soups, while in summer cook less and eat more salads. The Chi in food is affected by the seasons, so you want your food to support the Chi around you.

Some Advice on Balancing your Chi

Boost your Immune System Naturally & Beat the Cold / Flu Season

2013-11-20T20:11:00.000-05:00

Stay Healthy this Cold / Flu Season

Multi-Vitamins

It's very important to take a mult-vitamin. Daily intake of multivitamins prevent vitamin/ nutrient deficiency.   ('Alive' Multi-Vitamins are affordable & great!)

Check out this informative article from the Harvard School of Public Health.

Probiotics

Probiotics are "Good Bacteria" which help fight off "Bad Bacteria" in your gut.

Some benefits of (quality) probiotics include: improved digestive health, reduces allergy symptoms, & prevention of respiratory infections.   (PB8 are affordable, quality probiotics worth trying.)

For more great information on probiotics, check out this site on the Benefits & Side Effects of Probiotics.

Vitamin C

Suppresses Cell Damage & Improves Immune System. Vitamin C is also a natural antihistamine and antioxidant. (1,000-2,000mg daily)

Benefits of High Doses of Vitamin C

Spirulina

Spirulina is actually a super-food, rather than a supplement. Spirulina fights disease, removes toxins,  provides protein , helps with allergies, weight loss, and rich in nutrients & antioxidents.
(Check out Swanson's Organic Spirulina for only $6.99 a bottle.)

Check of this site at Herb Wisdom.

+ Plenty of Water & Excercise

****Best Natural Cold / Flu Remedy**** 1 tsp. Raw Honey + Cinnamon (couple dashes) Takes 2-3x a day! 'Raw Honey' & 'Cinnamon' are antibacterial & antiviral, which will help you fight off illnesses naturally. (Plus, it's also great for sore throats.)

Flax Seed - Health Benefits

2013-04-05T21:38:00.000-04:00

Flax plant (Linum usitatissimum) has been cultivated since around 8,000 B.C. and is said to be native to Egypt. Flaxseed has been cultivated for more than 7000 years. Flaxseed is rich in essential fatty acids, or EFAs. Flaxseed oil is used to prevent and treat heart disease and to relieve a variety of inflammatory disorders and hormone-related problems, including infertility!

Benefits of Consuming Ground Flax Seeds / Flax Seed Oil:

Cholesterol
Flax contains essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, that help the body with many functions including controlling cholesterol levels and balancing good and bad fats. Flaxseed has lipid-lowering properties.

Cancer
Flax contains lignans which prevent the growth of many types of cancer including colon, prostate and breast cancers. The two most notable anticancer components of flaxseeds are lignans and alphalinolenic acid (ALA).

Constipation
Flax seeds (not 'Flax Oil') is a great source of fiber which alleviates constipation. Flaxseeds also helps relive intestinal inflammation that can lead to Crohn's disease. Proper elimination also helps prevent cancer of the digestive tract. - Fiber rich (1 Ounce = 32% Daily Fiber intake)

Menopausal Symptoms
A poor diet can exacerbate menopausal symptoms, and a flaxseed supplement helps to balance estrogen levels and fill out an imbalanced, modern diet.

Cardiovascular Health, Weight Loss and Diabetes
Flaxseeds are an excellent source of all omega-3 essential fatty acids (including alpha-linoleic acids) that are critical for reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes as well as cancer. Omega-3s help balance blood sugar, boost metabolism and control appetite. Flax is known to help keep fats moving, as it emulsifies them in the body instead of storing them and keeps arteries from hardening.

Immune System and Inflammation
Flaxseeds are known to boost the immune system and relieve inflammation resulting from auto-immune diseases such as lupus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Depression, Memory and Attention Deficit Disorder
The high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in flaxseeds help keep the brain, and its neural pathways functioning properly. -Also, increases energy and stamina, and improves mental function.

Pain Preventer
One of the richest sources of magnesium (one-half cup equals almost 100% of the daily requirements which makes flax a pain preventer. Magnesium also eases the stressed nerve cell activity that causes tension headaches and neck pain).

Lowers Blood Pressure

Hormonal Balance
Flaxseed contains the phytoestrogen, which is the richest source of estrogen. Phytosestrogens are weeker form of natural estrogen that is in the body, which binds to estrogen receptors. Flaxseeds can help alleviate menopausal symptoms by regulating the body's hormone levels.

Improves the absorption of calcium and strengthens bones, teeth and nails.

Flax Seeds &/or Flax Seed Oil can be purchased at Health Food Stores & some grocery stores. Whole flax seed can stay stored up to a year, but once ground it loses it shelf life / can go rancid quicker. For this reason, many people choose to buy whole flax seed and grind it into meal themselves (this takes seconds in a blender or coffee grinder). Ground Flax Seed should be stored in the fridge & used within 3 months.

Side Effects & Cautions:

Flaxseed should always be taken with plenty of liquids, as it could cause constipation.

Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil could cause loose stools.

Don’t combine this herb with the following medications: laxatives, oral rugs and stool softeners

Do not take flaxseed when pregnant or breast feeding

Do NOT heat Flax Seed Oil

Do NOT give to Children under 12yrs. old

5 Simple Tips to Stay Stress-Free during the Holidays!

2012-11-29T10:06:00.001-05:00

Don't let the holidays stress you out.
Stress will make you more susceptible to illnesses by lowering your immune system responses.
1) Enjoy some 'Me' time.
Whether you love meditating, yoga, Zumba, reading, taking a hot bath, painting your nails or a picture - it is important to your health to make time for yourself.
2) Don't get wrapped up in DRAMA!
During the holidays most people spend more time with their loved ones (family/friends). People will generally catch up with each others 'personal lives'.    Remember that everyone is entitled to their own opinions and decisions in life, therefore give your advice to a situation (if needed) and let it go. Don't spread gossip nor be consumed by other peoples' drama.
3) Take your Vitamins
Unless you are extremely disciplined, even the most health-driven people succumb to occassional holiday treats, and go through periods of not eating a healthy, balanced diet.   Remember to take your multi-vitamin and probiotics, daily.
4) Be Happy
Remember happiness is a choice! Everytime you get angry or worried, take a deap breath and think of what makes you happy.   Positive thoughts will lead to more positive thoughts and vice versa.
5) Don't Overspend
Don't allow yourself to go into debt around the holidays. Remember that love is not measured by the money you have / don't have.   Look up 'Home-made Gift ideas'.   Remember the most sentimental gifts are usually the cheapest. (Have a collection of family pictures online? Try creating a mouspad, mug, t-shirt, etc.

Allergies??? Sinus Problems??? Colds?? --- Stop them with "Sinus Rinses"

2011-04-15T10:30:00.000-04:00

“The History of the Neti Pot"

While nasal irrigation has only recently become popular in the United States, it has been practiced for thousands of years in India. The ancient yogic technique of Jala Neti means “nasal cleansing.“ (Practitioners of Jala Neti use a device called a neti pot to rinse out the nose. Shaped like Aladdin's lamp, a neti pot allows you to flow saline into one nostril, through the sinus cavity, and out of the other nostril.)

These days in India and South Asia, the use of the neti pot is just as common as use of the toothbrush. Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Mehmet Oz, well-known doctors and frequent guests on “The Oprah Winfrey Show", have recently helped to popularize the neti pot in the West.

Nasal Irrigation for Allergies

The neti pot is especially beneficial for seasonal allergy sufferers. When you inhale pollen grains, they get stuck in your nasal mucus, where they cause allergic reactions. Nasal irrigation will rinse away the pollen grains to provide allergy relief.

Neti pots help with perennial allergies, too. For example, if you're allergic to dust mites, a saline rinse in the morning will help to remove the allergens that accumulated in your nose overnight.

Nasal Irrigation for Sinusitis

Nasal irrigation is helpful in the treatment and prevention of sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis may be caused by bacteria or fungus, or a combination of both. When mucus builds up in your sinuses, it provides an inviting habitat for these impurities. A neti pot rinses away excess mucus as well as infectious agents.

The neti pot also restores moisture to irritated nasal membranes. For this reason, it's often recommended to people who have had sinus surgery.

Nasal Irrigation for Colds

When it comes to the common cold, a neti pot will clear up congestion and wash away the viruses that cause colds. Many people use a neti pot at the first sign of a cold to eliminate the cold virus before it has a chance to fully take hold.

Nasal Irrigation for Children

Many cold medications are not safe for young children, but nasal irrigation is all-natural and perfectly safe. It has no side effects. Our customers have used neti pots on children as young as 2-years-old with no problems.

Nasal Irrigation for Improved Quality of Life

Many musicians and athletes use neti pots to improve breathing skills and enhance performance. However, the neti pot is most beneficial to those of us who suffer from allergies or chronic sinus problems. Nasal irrigation quickly and safely clears out the sinuses, so that you can breathe better. As the American Lung Association says, “When you can't breathe, nothing else matters.

NeilMed Sinus Rinse is designed to irrigate the nasal passages and clear them of mucus, allowing nasal medication to work more effectively. It is also used to clean bacteria, viruses, allergens and irritants from the nose with the intent of reducing infections. *Consisting of a saline-based powder that is mixed freshly for each use, NeilMed Sinus Rinse is advertised as safe for all ages but does offer a concentration specifically for children. The starter kit contains everything you need for your first nasal irrigation.

Aloe Vera Juice - More than a cure for cuts & scrapes!!!

2011-04-15T10:03:00.000-04:00

Aloe vera juce is wonderful for strengthening the immune system, which can help prevent disease. (Aloe tends to often have a distinct taste, therefore it is best mixed with juice.)

Drinking aloe vera juice daily helps digestion & also helps to detoxify the body. Aloe also acts as an antibacterial and antifungal agent, which helps to prevent diseases.

Aloe vera juice can also be very useful at cleaning the intestines & colon! (The content that is derived from the aloe vera plant works efficiently to get rid of bacteria within your intestines. At the same time it is also removing other contents that could cause stomach cramps, poor bowel movements, and various issues such as constipation or diarrhea.)

Aloe Vera also increases the blood circulation! (If you have severe blood circulation issues, possibly a result of diabetes or similar conditions, then the aloe vera juice can be very effective.) Aloe vera juice works to detox the blood and hleps the bloodstream system transfer larger amounts of essential nutrients throughout the body.

If you are looking to lose weight, aloe vera juice can assist you. Consuming aloe vera juice helps our bodies by stimulating the metabolic rate in our livers, which enables us to burn more energy..
(Aloe vera has been known as the dietary plant throughout history as it has been associated with achieving a healthy body weight.)

Nineteen amino acids, 20 minerals and 12 vitamins are contained in aloe vera juice making it an excellent nutritional supplement - and it is all natural.

Aloe Vera Juice can be purchased at Health Food Stores or you can make your own by purchasing your own Aloe Vera Plant.

STRESS & Mind / Body Connection

2011-02-12T22:38:00.000-05:00

Scientists concur that Stress causes actual chemical changes in the brain, and these changes can influence the state of your health! 90% of all doctors visits are physical illnesses related to stress!

Emotional and physical changes that happen in your life, illnesses, and environmental components as (heat, cold, toxins, etc.) cause stress. Depleting your body of the energy also results in becoming over stressed.

Stress is or may be a contributing factor in everything from backaches and insomnia to cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome / fibromyalgia.

Effects of Stress also Include:

1) Headaches

While there are many different types of headaches, the majority are actually “stress headaches" or "tension headaches".

2) Sleep problems

Stress usually made a person worry / have anxiety which results in difficulty falling asleep or even having nightmare. Yet, some people under stress might be (genetically?) wired to be very lethargic and tend to sleep more often and for longer hours.

3) More Frequent Colds and Flu

The effect of stress on the immune system is the main cause of most physical illnesses. Prolonged stress can weaken our immune systems and make us extremely vulnerable to many diseases. Colds and Flu are the most commonly reported.

4) Muscle tension ~ especially in neck, back and jaw

Many people compain of muscle aches from the tension of stress.

5) Frustration and depression

Stress makes people more sensitive, irritable or easily frustrated & even cause depression.

6) Fatigued or Exhaustion

Fatigue is a common symptom and could also be a result of the lack of quality sleep.

7) Lack of concentration / Forgetfulness

Stress can impact our cognititve & leave our brains "fuzzy". (Cortisol is a stress hormone that circulates through your body when you’re stressed or anxious which inteferes with the energy supply to certain brain cells involved in 'memory').

8) Stress Weight Gain or Loss

Stress can lead to either a weight gain or weight loss depending on the person. (Some people may indulge when they feel stress while others may lose their appetite!)

9) Blood pressure

Blood pressure rises & you may develop chronic high blood pressure.

10) Stomach aches and gastrointestinal disorders

Stress can cause several digestive problems including constipation, diarrhea or IBS.

HOW TO MANAGE STRESS

Unfortunetely stress if unavoidable in life, so it's imparative that we learn ways to 'manage' or 'reduce' stress.

You can manage stress by journaling, meditating, exercising, talking ('venting') to others, or engaging in a hobby.

Other ways to Reduce Stress Include:

Reducing caffeine & high-fructose syrup ('addictive sugar') intake

Sleeping Well - which includes regular sleep schedule (6-8 hrs of 'uninterupted' sleep)

Yoga - Classes that emphasize slow, steady movement and gentle stretching are best for stress relief. Look for labels like gentle, for stress relief, or for beginners. Yoga for Beginners & Beyond: Stretch, Strengthen, Be Stress Free! - Ana Brett & Ravi Singh

Supplements & Herbs:

B vitamins ~ The B vitamins - especially B6 and B12 - help regulate the body's response to stress and maintain a healthy nervous system.

Kava kava ~ This herb is known to treat anxiety and insomnia. (It helps relieve acute and chronic anxiety without making you feel drowsy or 'fuzzy.')

Valerian ~ Keeps the nervous system from being overwhelmed. Helps to aid sleep a common side effect of increased stress.

Hops ~ Helps to ease nervousness, restlessness and stress. Also decreases the desire for alcohol.

Chamomile ~ Chamomile is a gentle relaxant and a good nerve tonic aiding herbal stress relief.

Catnip ~ Catnip is an effective herbal remedy for stress that calms and reduces anxiety.

Many herbs can be found in teas such as: