My Thoughts and Journey

June Fit Challenge

2013-06-09T20:10:00.001-07:00

Team Beachbody fitness program

2013-05-15T21:19:00.002-07:00

get fit today
Start today
Team Beachbody

New stuff

2013-05-05T17:48:00.001-07:00

Grape Seed Oil & Black Currant

2013-04-22T20:48:00.001-07:00

What are the Benefits of Grape Seed Oil?

Studies suggest that Grape Seed Oil and its Extract constitute anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-histamine, anti-aging, anti-allergic, antimicrobial, and adaptogenic activity. Therefore, it has been beneficial in the treatment of a number of health issues which include: arthritis, edema, dermatitis, acne, wrinkles, dry and itchy skin, age spots, sun burns, chapped lips, wounds, bruising, stretch marks, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, chronic venous insufficiency, premature aging, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), weight loss, stress, dandruff, hair loss, warts, cardiovascular diseases especially atherosclerosis, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, visual impairment, cataract, and macular degeneration. Studies also suggest that its free radical scavenging activity may strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Black Currant:

Description

The black currant (Ribes nigrum), is a deciduous shrub of the Saxifragaceae family. Though all parts of the shrub are used—berries, bark, leaves, and seeds—it is the oil of the seed that is used most commonly today. Black currant seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids, which promote and maintain the body's vital functions. Essential fatty acids provide energy, regulate body temperature and metabolism, protect tissues, and insulate nerves. Approximately 17% of black currant seed oil consists of an omega-6 fatty acid, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Another 13% consists of an omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid. Evening primrose oil is primarily used for its essential fatty acid content, but it contains only about 8% gamma-linolenic acid, half of what is found in black currant seed oil. Because both omega-6 and omega-3 acids are needed in our diets, a supplement of black currant seed oil is beneficial. These essential fatty acids are broken down by the body into prostaglandins, the body's regulating substances that block pain and govern many other physical functions, especially in proper functioning of the circulatory system.

General use

Because black currant seed oil is so high in gamma-linolenic acid, which makes prostaglandins, it is a highly effective anti-inflammatory herb. The oil is best used for chronic inflammatory conditions, cramps, and aches. It also boosts the immune system, and helps women with their menstrual cycles and menopause, while also easing discomforts associated with premenstrual syndrome. Black currant seed oil is also used to treat skin disorders.

Rheumatoid arthritis

As an anti-inflammatory agent, black currant seed oil works well in rheumatoid arthritis patients by decreasing morning stiffness in their joints. The British Journal of Rheumatology has noted that black currant seed oil may be so effective in rheumatoid arthritis patients because of a "reduction in the secretion of the inflammatory cytokines 11-1 and TNF-alpha." Cytokines are a source of inflammation. By preventing their production, black currant seed oil offers some relief.

Cardiovascular disorders

Black currant seed oil is beneficial to patients with cardiovascular problems, as prostaglandins counteract the constriction of blood vessels. Two Canadian studies have also showed that omega-6 fatty acids lower blood pressure.

Get your "ICEBOX" today!

2013-04-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

Get your "ICEBOX" today. Can't imagine life without it.

Healthy & Natural Products

2013-04-18T23:07:00.001-07:00

Natural & organic products for the whole family

New juicing recipes

2013-04-12T13:21:00.001-07:00

Yummy! Enjoy!
Tell me which one is your favorite juicing recipe?

April 1, 2013 - April 11, 2013

2013-04-12T11:53:00.001-07:00

Hi readers,

I hope all are doing well. Sorry I have been awol for a while but was moving and didnt have internet, but internet is up and running again so here I am.

I want to first thank you all for following me in my journey and all your support and encouragement.

As of Monday, April 1st, 2013 I started another 10 day juicing/blending challenge which I completed yesterday. It gets easier and easier everytime. Love my results!

I also started exercising to start firming up from my weight loss.
I am doing the 60 Day 'Insanity' Challenge. Whoa, it is tough but I am hanging in there. My body is sore but I can feel my strenght building up.

Will continue to keep you updated on my progress as much as possible.

Please post your comments or questions. Would love to hear from you. Ideas, suggestions please share.

Thanks again!

Here are pics of my journey.

Day 1 of Challenge

Day 1: 4/1/13 Insanity Fit Test

Exhaustion after Insanity workout

So close but still so far!

What are the possible Health Benefits of Juicing?

2013-03-31T17:27:00.001-07:00

What Are The Possible Health Benefits of Juicing?
10 Benefits of Juicing for Health...and more!

Eating a clean, healthy diet, including freshly pressed fruit and vegetable juices, may have the following benefits to your health. Please do not take this as medical advice or as a cure for any specific ailments. See disclaimer at the bottom of this page.
1
Juicing can aid in weight loss and healthy weight maintenance. Juicing for weight loss shouldn't be your #1 priority, but so many other health benefits come from juicing!
2
Juicing can give you clear, smooth and hydrated skin.
3
Juicing can give you increased energy and vitality.
4
Juicing can strengthen your immune system.
5
Juicing can give you a more efficient digestive system.
6
Juicing can regulate your blood sugar levels.
7
Juicing can regulate your blood pressure.
8
Juicing can aid in clearer thinking and reduce that "foggy" feeling...be prepared to feel a difference in this area!
9
One theory that is gaining ground is that phytochemicals in fresh fruits and vegetables could possibly prevent cancer and even fight existing cancer cells!
10
Juicing feeds every cell in your body with water, vitamins, minerals and essential enzymes, making you a healthier person in every way!

Cmpliments of: http://www.squidoo.com/juicer_recipes

Pineapple -Kale Juice

2013-03-31T17:06:00.001-07:00

Ingredients

½ cup pineapple
4 cups chopped kale leaves (no stems)
2 large cucumbers
½ lemon, squeezed
½ cup mint
2 artichoke hearts (from can or jar)

Read more: http://www.oprah.com/food/Pineapple-Kale-Juice-Recipe-Healthy-Juice-Recipes#ixzz2PAJj84U9

Juicing for headaches

2013-03-25T16:29:00.001-07:00

Headache and Migraine – Ingredients to use:
Calcium and Magnesium are nerve and muscle function regulators. The combination of the two has proved very useful in preventing and relieving headaches.

Produce rich in these nutrients include:

Spinach
Okra
Broccoli
Swiss Chard
Turnips
Fennel
Kale (Calcium)
Celery (Calcium)
Cabbage (Calcium)
Bok Choy (Calcium)
Collard Greens (Calcium)
Blackberries (Magnesium)
Raspberries (Magnesium)
Ginger is a natural pain reliever (and reliever of many other things, too!) It is also a natural anti-inflammatory, so it helps fight off a headache.

Fennel gets special attention because it’s a great source of calcium and magnesium, in addition to being known for aiding in constipation.

Rosemary is the surprise ingredient that is a migraine suffers best friend. It helps improve blood flow to the head, and helps out your liver.

Make your own juice from the ingredients listed above, or try one of my headache reliving recipes!

Jazz it up!

6 carrots
2 apples
1 small wedge red cabbage
1 inch ginger
Wash all produce. Cut the tops off of the carrots. Remove the stem and seeds from your apples. Juice and enjoy!

Anti-headache juice

1/4 fennel bulb
1 apple
1/2 pineapple
1 celery stalk
2 carrots
1 small cabbage wedge
Wash all produce. Cut the tops off of the carrot. Remove the stem and seeds from your apples. Remove the outside rind of the pineapple. Juice and enjoy!

Popeye’s headache remover

3 carrots
2 celery stalks
handful of spinach
1 inch ginger root
1 broccoli stalk
Wash all produce. Cut the tops off of the carrots. Juice and enjoy!

Rosemary’s Juice

4fl oz carrot juice
4fl oz celery juice
3 soft sprigs of fresh rosemary
freshly ground pepper (optional)
Wash all produce. Cut the tops off of the carrots. Juice and enjoy!

Turnip Fennel Juice

½ turnip
3 carrots
1 apple
¼ fennel bulb
Wash all produce. Cut the tops off of the carrots. Remove the stem and seeds from your apples. Juice and enjoy!

Compliments of:
http://www.877myjuicer.com/blog/juicing-away-headaches/

Beginner's Luck Recipe

2013-03-25T09:11:00.001-07:00

Beginner’s Luck Recipe
2 cups fresh spinach (tightly packed)
2 cups water
1 cup frozen mango
1 cup frozen pineapple
2 bananas

Makes 4 – 5 cups (about 2 servings)

Recipes

2013-03-24T19:06:00.001-07:00

Smoothie Recipes

2013-03-21T18:13:00.001-07:00

Yummy Banana-Free Green Smoothie Recipes

Most people either hate bananas or love ‘em. Jen and I are huge fans of bananas, so you’ll find them in many of our green smoothie recipes. Bananas add a creamy texture to green smoothies and they’re the perfect natural sweetener! But if you’re a banana hater, or allergic, or you’re just looking for a fresh smoothie taste, we want to share a few of our favorite banana-free green smoothie recipes with you.

Peach Coconut Dream
Enjoy this mildly sweet green smoothie— perfect for those watching their sugar intake. If you buy organic peaches, go ahead and keep the skin on for extra fiber.

ingredients

2 cups spinach
2 cups coconut water
2 cups grapes, frozen
1 peach

Brain Fuel Green Smoothie
This banana-free recipe is packed with brain boosting healthy fats and plenty of fiber to keep all the food flowing through your body with ease.

ingredients

2 cups spinach
2 cups coconut water
2 ripe pears
1 cup frozen mango
1/2 avocado

Cantaloupe-Grape Sweetnes
This naturally sweet smoothie is not only hydrating with the high-water fruits like grapes and cantaloupe, but it’s also heart healthy. Omega-3s found in flaxseed support brain development, and they help lower your risk of heart disease.

ingredients

2 cups spinach, fresh
1 cup almond milk, unsweetened
1/2 cup water
1/2 cantaloupe, rind removed
1 cup red seedless grapes, frozen
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 tablespoon flaxseed

A good substitute for bananas in smoothies
If you’re allergic to bananas (or just can’t stand the taste), some great banana substitutes are:

Mango
Papaya
Pear
Chia seeds
Fresh dates
Nut Butters
Unsweetened applesauce
Avocado (won’t add the sweetness, but will definitely add the thick and creamy texture)

Courtesy of: Simply Green Smoothies

Cancer causing vs Anti-Cancer

2013-03-20T21:25:00.001-07:00

Blood Pressure Monitoring

2013-03-18T21:24:00.001-07:00

Health information you should all monitor and be aware of.

FYI:

Raspberry-Orange Immunity Smoothie

2013-03-16T23:36:00.001-07:00

Raspberry-Orange Immunity Smoothie

Bolster your immune system with vitamin C and antioxidants in this healthy and simple snack or breakfast treat.

Ingredients
1 cup nonfat or low-fat vanilla soy milk
1 cup frozen raspberries
1 medium ripe banana
1/2 cup orange juice with one ice cube or 1 Tbs frozen orange juice concentrate

Directions
Combine all ingredients in blender. Cover and blend until smooth.

Nutritional Info
Calories 253
Fat 0.2 grams
Aging fats 0.1 grams
Fiber 5.3 grams
Carbs 28 grams
Protein 4.8 grams
Sodium 15 milligrams
Potassium 584 milligrams

courtesy of Dr. Oz http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/raspberry-orange-immunity-smoothie#cmpid=em031513

Lemon water & Protein Ice Cream Shake

2013-03-15T10:26:00.001-07:00

5 day juicing: 3/4/13-3/8/13

2013-03-15T10:05:00.001-07:00

Hi friends, sorry been Gone for a while. Had some things I had to deal with. Lost my beautiful grandma on Valentines Day. It was a sad and difficult time but with the love and bond of my family we comforted and grew so much more closer.

New day of my juicing cleanse. Just doing a small 5 day cleanse. Lets see how it goes.
Starting weight is 179.4. I did straight juicing, no other food. I drank approx 46-64 ounces of juice everyday. Used more greens and alittle bit of fruits. Had my hot water and lemon every morning. Felt great, no bad reactions. Energized the whole time. I truly enjoy juicing.

Final results: 177.4

What are Raw Foods

2013-03-10T22:40:00.001-07:00

raw foods
Web definitions
Raw foodism (or rawism) is a lifestyle promoting the consumption of uncooked, unprocessed, and often organic foods.

Raw food diet includes:
all raw fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, sprouts, roots, root vegetables and squashes, fresh herbs and raw spices, seaweeds.

The raw foods diet includes these foods in their unprocessed and uncooked state and omits most other foods. Raw foodists also drink fresh fruit and vegetable juices and most people include a limited amount of foods that have undergone some processing, as long as the processing involves does not involve heating the food over 115 degrees. Some of these processed raw foods include:

cold pressed oils
unprocessed olives
raw nut butters
Raw nut "milks"
fermented foods such as miso, kimchee and sauerkraut
pure maple syrup
unpasteurized raw soy sauce (nama shoyu)
dried fruits and vegetables
vinegars and foods cured in vinegar
unprocessed raw cacao (raw chocolate)

Become informed about the raw food diet. Understanding the purpose and philosophy behind the raw food diet is an essential part of becoming an advocate for and ensuring that you are enjoying it, as well as benefiting from it. There are some well-known advocates of the raw food diet you can begin by reading about, and there are numerous websites available to read.

Know how to store foods properly. Raw foods are more susceptible to spoilage and will not keep anywhere near as long as processed foods. Be prepared to consume raw foods quickly and to replenish them regularly.

Reference:

http://www.wikihow.com/Go-on-a-Raw-Food-Diet/a>t

Raw foods

2013-02-27T22:48:00.001-08:00

Juicing and eating raw food isnt a diet, it is a lifestyle! Raw fruits and vegetables are the best sources of nutrients and vitamins. Try to juice atleast once a day, that is better than none. Dark green leafy vegetables are always great. You can throw in some of your favorite fruits. Gain energy!

Quick and Simple Juice

2013-02-20T12:04:00.001-08:00

Use 1 bag of grapes
1/2 - 1 head of kale

That's it your done!

Complimentary of FullyRawKristina

Spirulina and the Benefits

2013-02-14T13:42:00.001-08:00

Spirulina is the richest beta carotene food, with a full spectrum of ten mixed carotenoids. About half are orange carotenes: alpha, beta and gamma and half are yellow xanthophylls. They work synergistically at different sites in our body to enhance antioxidant protection. Twenty years of research proves eating beta carotene rich fruits and vegetables gives us real anti-cancer protection. Synthetic beta carotene has not always shown these benefits. Research in Israel showed natural beta carotene from algae was far more effective. Natural is better assimilated and contains the key 9-cis isomer, lacking in synthetic. As suspected, natural carotenoids in algae and vegetables have the most antioxidant and anti-cancer power.

Spirulina is an ideal anti-aging food; concentrated nutrient value, easily digested and loaded with antioxidants. Beta carotene is good for healthy eyes and vision. Spirulina beta carotene is ten times more concentrated than carrots.

Iron is essential to build a strong system, yet is the most common mineral deficiency. Spirulina is rich in iron, magnesium and trace minerals, and is easier to absorb than iron supplements.

Spirulina is the highest source of B-12, essential for healthy nerves and tissue, especially for vegetarians.

Healthy Dieting with Spirulina
About 60% of spirulina’s dry weight is protein, which is essential for growth and cell regeneration. It is a good replacement for fatty and cholesterol-rich meat and dairy products in one’s diet. Every 10 grams of spirulina can supply up to 70% of the minimum daily requirements for iron, and about three to four times of minimum daily requirements for vitamins A (in the form of beta carotene), B complex, D,and K. By itself, it does not contain vitamin C, but it helps maintain this vitamin’s potency.

Spirulina is rich in gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, a compound found in breast milk that helps develop healthier babies. Moreover, with its high digestibility, spirulina has been proven to fight malnutrition in impoverished communities by helping the body absorb nutrients when it has lost its ability to absorb normal forms of food.
Another health benefit of spirulina is that it stimulates beneficial flora like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria in your digestive tract to promote healthy digestion and proper bowel function. It acts as a natural cleanser by eliminating mercury and other deadly toxins commonly ingested by the body.

Spirulina also increases stamina and immunity levels in athletes, and its high protein content helps build muscle mass. At the same time, it can curb hunger that may develop during the most demanding training routines. Thus, it indirectly acts as an effective way to maintain an athlete’s ideal body weight.

The Disease Fighter

As well as beta carotene, Spirulina contains other nutrients such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper, selenium, and chromium. These nutrients help fight free radicals, cell-damaging molecules absorbed by the body through pollution, poor diet, injury, or stress. By removing free radicals, the nutrients help the immune system fight cancer and cellular degeneration. In some findings, spirulina has helped reduce oral cancer tumors in laboratory rats, and may thus provide a big medical breakthrough in cancer treatment.

Spirulina’s ability to reduce the bad cholesterol LDL in the body helps prevent the onset of cardiovascular diseases, such as hardening of the arteries and strokes. It also helps lower blood pressure. While not clinically proven, spirulina may also protect against allergic reactions and liver infection.

Research confirms Spirulina promotes digestion and bowel function. It suppresses bad bacteria like e-coli and Candida yeast and stimulates beneficial flora like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. Healthy flora is the foundation of good health and it increases absorption of nutrients from the foods we eat, and helps protect against infection. Spirulina builds healthy lactobacillus, aiding assimilation and elimination and relieving constipation.

Removing Toxins
In 1994, a Russian Patent was awarded for spirulina as a medical food to reduce allergic reactions from radiation sickness. 270 Children of Chernobyl consuming 5 grams a day for 45 days (donated by Earthrise Farms), lowered radionucleides by 50%, and normalized allergic sensitivities. Today we are subject to an onslaught of toxic chemicals in our air, water, food and drugs. Our bodies need to continually eliminate these accumulated toxins. Spirulina has a completely unique combination of phytonutrients - including chlorophyll, phycocyanin and polysaccharides, that can help cleanse our bodies.

What juicer do I use?

2013-02-13T21:43:00.001-08:00

I use and love the emulsifier by Montel William Healthmaster

Get it at discount price at link below

http://www.nomorerack.com/?cr=10957321

Normally $199 but you can get it for $75

I've tried others and this by far was the best for the most reasonable price. With lifetime manufacturer warranty on motor.

I know there are others out there that are also good but who wants to or can spend $300 or more.

Juice Recipes

2013-02-13T21:02:00.001-08:00

Try them out and come back and comment on what you like and didnt like

TOTAL JUICE
For a healthy juice that also tastes great, try this recipe packed full of fruit.

INGREDIENTS
WildSide Jar

2 c grapes
¼ orange
3 strawberries
1 slice pineapple, rind removed
1 slice cantaloupe, rind removed
½ kiwi
¼ apple, cored
¼ c ice cubes
INSTRUCTIONS
Add ingredients in order listed to WildSide Jar and secure lid. Select "Whole Juice."
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Servings 2
Serving Size 16 fl oz
Calories 195
Fat 0 g
Saturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium 12 mg
Carbohydrates 50 g
Fiber 5 m
Sugar 41 g
Protein 2.5 g

GREEN FLAXY
A great way to improve your omega-3 intake is to enjoy this smoothie, which contains 1.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids.

INGREDIENTS
FourSide Jar

½ c water
2 tbsp flaxseeds
2 clementines, peeled
1 banana
2 c spinach
½ c frozen pineapple chunks
INSTRUCTIONS
Add all ingredients to FourSide jar in order listed and secure lid. Select "Whole Juice."
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Servings 2
Serving Size 10 fl oz
Calories 180
Fat 4 g
Saturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium 50 mg
Carbohydrates 35 g
Fiber 8 g
Sugar 18 g
Protein 5 g

GARDEN GREEN GIANT JUICE
This fresh green drink—made with green veggies only—has a slight undertone of lemon and ginger. Adjust the amount of lemon and ginger according to your preferences.

INGREDIENTS
FourSide Jar
or
WildSide Jar

2 c water, chilled
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ cucumber, ends removed, halved lengthwise
1 stalk celery, halved
3 c leafy greens, lightly packed
½ avocado
1 tsp gingerroot, peeled
INSTRUCTIONS
Add ingredients to FourSide or WildSide Jar in order listed and secure lid. Select "Whole Juice."
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Servings 1
Serving Size 32 fl oz
Calories 130
Fat 6 g
Saturated Fat 1 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium 210 mg
Carbohydrates 17 g
Fiber 7 g
Sugar 4 g
Protein 5 g