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• diet
• food
• detox

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Written by Lisa Jillanza

Several foods have already been hailed in science and nutrition journals as the saving grace of humankind. That is if humankind is keen enough to forget take-outs, burgers and sodas.

The way your body functions can be taking a lot from your diet, from what you eat and what you ingest. Everything in your system from your digestive to your circulatory to your nervous system relied mostly in the food you take in. They may not function as they usually do once it has been filled with all the oxidants both from external and internal factors.

And here comes the miracle foods that can promote detoxification in the body.

The Detox Craze

Several detox craze has surfaced over the years. Some are even promoted and advertised by famous Hollywood Celebs.

Some established detox process involves incorporation f several foods and natural ingredients. Mostly it requires a day or more of consumption of these formulas but most often results to hunger and eating impulse since it's the only thing they take in.

By this, experts say that to be able to detoxify you may not need to deprive yourself of food, instead choose it wisely and let it complement each other. Take a hint below.

Avocado

Avocado is rich with fiber and anti-oxidant which makes it good for digestion and for the cleansing of the body. Avocado is also high in fats but the good ones. And for the right detox, an organic avocado can do the job instead of the little piece of guacamole in your restaurant meals.

Beets

A regular beet in your meal can do a lot good than an occasional one in your salad. Beets can make sure that you will really flush out the toxins since sometime the toxins are not totally ousted from your system and are reintroduced in your body. It can help in free-radicals and can aid against cancer.

Blueberries

Blueberries have long been known to be a detoxifier. It contains vitamin c and fiber. It is low in calories and is rich with anthocyanins. These antioxidant pigments protect body's cells from free radical damage. It can enhance the glutathione production which is another antioxidant.

Broccoli

Broccoli is health food and you just have to deal with that. It can work for your liver through its enzymes. Raw broccoli can be more nutritional than a cooked one, but you can have your options.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds can aid in detoxification since it's also rich in antioxidants. It has even more than those of blueberries. It can help boost metabolism, rich in fibre and is high in protein.

Ginger

Gingers benefits have been recognized even back then in the world's ancient civilization.  It can be taken in as tea or as drinks it can help liver to function properly and is rich with astringent properties.

Green tea

Green eta is refreshing but it can also be high in anti-oxidant value. It can help educe and fight free-radicals.

Kale

Kale, blended and made into a shake can be the best possible way to benefit form this vegetables anti-oxidant properties. It can help fight kidney disease and is anti-inflammatory.

Lemons

Lemon as has been a component of most known detox craze. It is rich in vitamin C and can flush out toxins.

Garlic

Though pungent to smell, garlic can be a very good detoxifying food. It is antibacterial, antibiotic and is antiviral. It contains allicin which helps fight against toxins

The above superfoods are just part of the big picture. Some other option not mentioned above includes seaweed, flaxseed, water, watercress, wheatgrass, artichoke and more. And with these options, who's got an excuse not to detoxify?

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Written by Lisa Jillanza

Arthritis should never be taken lightly. Many of us might simply brush away this as a disease that afflicts us in our later years. It is something inevitable and people must live with it. But arthritis like any other disease is preventable. It could be prevented by eating healthy or exercising regularly. And there are natural ways of managing the symptoms of arthritis.

Omega 3 and Arthritis

Omega 3 is a potent anti-inflammatory that is effective in managing the symptoms of arthritis. One of the body's first immunologic responses is inflammation which blocks the supply of nutrients in affected joints. The inflammation also increases the pressure in the area causing pain. Omega 3 restores the flow of blood and nutrients in the joints. It also relieves the pressure reducing pain.

Here are six of nature's remedies that can replace or enhance the capabilities conventional medications for a pain-free physicality.

1. Fish or Calamari Oil: Packed with the amazing wonders of Omega-3, fish and calamari oil which are its natural sources are best included in your diet. Omega-3 fatty acids is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. As reported by ScienceDaily from a study conducted by a biochemist in University of Michigan, Omega-3 can significantly reduce the production and potency of various prostaglandins that triggers inflammation.
2. Aquamin: This red seaweed is another wonder with its inflammation-fighting abilities, thus there are plenty of joint supplements based on it that appears in the market today. It is rich in Calcium, magnesium among other 74 trace minerals that includes selenium, zinc, and iron.
3. Vitamin D: People with deficiency to Vitamin D are most likely victims of chronic pain. If you are more likely to suffer from inflammation especially caused by joint pain, getting yourself an ample amount of the sunshine-vitamin from a daily morning walk can make miracles. Vitamin D also function in the metabolism of calcium for superior bone health.
4. Chili Peppers: Love spicy food? Then you are also spicing up your health! Capsaicin from chili peppers is a natural remedy for pain and is rich with Vitamin E that is beneficial for the skin. Topical capsaicin is used to alleviate pain caused by muscle sprains, strains and rheumatoid arthritis. It is good for back pain, fibromyalgia, and headaches, but you have to be wary if you have skin irritation. Do not forget to wash your hands after application and do not touch your eyes and other sensitive areas of the skin after applying capsaicin.
5. Pineapples: This delish tropical fruit is rich in enzyme called bromelain. Bromelain is helpful in osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and pain.
6. Vitamin B2: Deficiency in riboflavin can cause mouth ulcers, sore throat, and iron deficiency anemia. It is richly found in liver, dried herbs, peppers, spices, soybeans, and fish. In a study, riboflavin has found with promise in reducing the frequency of migraines.

Things to consider when using Omega 3 for managing Arthritis

Although treatment with Omega 3 is quite effective, long term benefits could take six months.

Take Omega 3 supplements with meals to improve absorption and avoid stomach problems.

Those experiencing nausea or indigestion should try freezing Omega 3 supplements or search of enteric coated capsules.

Omega 6 and Omega 9 are entirely different from Omega 3. These nutrients are well represented in a Western diet and taking supplements is not recommended. Instead, these nutrients promote inflammation.

Reduce intake of red meat and fried foods as these contain arachidonic acid that promotes pain. Caffeine containing drinks and foods rich in Trans-fatty acids should also be decreased.

Other things to include in your diet are magnesium, zinc and Vitamin B6.

Combine Omega 3 treatments with other anti-inflammatory drugs to help boost its effectiveness.

The most effective arthritis treatments could only go as far when partnered with a healthy lifestyle. To enjoy long term relief from arthritis, people should consider long lasting lifestyle changes. The aim of any arthritis treatment is not only to manage the symptoms of the disease but preventing this from occurring.

People suffering from arthritis are encouraged to eat a healthy diet and refrain from foods rich in Trans-fatty acids or fried foods. Stress reduction and a regular sleep schedule prevent further aggravation of the condition.

If you're planning to take Omega 3 supplements be sure to check in with your doctor. Although dietary supplements are readily available without a prescription, consulting with your doctor ensures that your path towards arthritis treatment remains safe and effective.

• smoking
• bad habit
• make a plan
• too much tv
• too much alcohol
• overeating
• not flossing
• nail biting

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Written by Lisa Jillanza

From overeating to watching too much TV, there's really only one way to break a bad habit : make a plan!

Unfortunately what may work for one person, may not work for another.  So here are some ways to break some of the most popular bad habits.  Hopefully it works for you!

Watching too much TV. : Studies show that ptoeople watch an average of 4 hours of television each day and these studies also show that excessive TV. watching can be linked to developing Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.  Here are some ways to avoid watching too much TV: only watch when there is something specific you want to see, do chores during commercials, make a list of things you need to accomplish before sitting down to watch TV, and create a TV-watching plan and stick to it.

Drinking too much alcohol. : Tired of being hung over and sluggish? Then you should do everything you can to cut back on drinking too much alcohol.  To cut back try these tips: drink one glass of water for every alcoholic drink you have, drink only when you are having a meal, or try drinking something that looks like an alcoholic drink, like rootbeer or a drink with a slice of fruit in it.

Smoking. : While this may be one of the hardest habits to break, it's still possible as many, many people do it every year. The best plan is to talk things over with your doctor because they can offer the best cessation treatment for you.  But some other approaches that you may consider include: hypnotherapy, exercise or electronic cigarettes.

Nail biting. : Because most nail biting habits are linked to anxiety, stress, or nervousness, your plan should start with creating a relaxation plan.  Think about what makes you bite your nails before you start.  When you get the urge to bite your nails or catch yourself in the act, do something with your hands : garden, cook, play with your kids or pets, clean or do the dishes.  Do something that takes your mind off of biting your nails.

Overeating. : No matter how hard you try to cut calories, it still seems like sometimes the cravings are still there.  Experts say that sometimes it is best to give into those cravings.  When people do give into their cravings every once in awhile they have a better chance of losing weight and keeping it off, than those who ignore their cravings and avoid certain foods.  Experts also advise that if you can avoid nighttime eating that you will be well on your way to prevent overeating as well.

Not flossing. : Not flossing your teeth increases your risk of gum disease, as well as contributing to heart disease, still only half of Americans floss their teeth every day.  To make sure that you are flossing every day try these tips: keep your floss in your shower so that you are already in “cleaning” mode when you see it, keep your floss on your nightstand to remind yourself to floss before you go to bed, or keep your floss in clear view of some place where you will see it each and every day.

• Spring
• walking workout
• heart rate
• right shoes
• have a goal

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Written by Lisa Jillanza

Springtime is here and this is the perfect time to get outdoors and get in some great walking workouts. But in order to boost your workout, consider some of these points as you lace up your sneakers.

Remember to Breathe : Just like preparing to take a yoga class or meditating, you need to learn to control your breathing for the best walking workout possible.  Breathe in a pattern that relates to the steps that you are taking.  By creating a better breathing pattern while you are walking, you are taking your workout to a new, stress-relieving level.

Find the Right Shoes : There are so many options when it comes to tennis shoes, but if you want to get the most out of your walking workout then you need to find the correct shoes.  Experts suggest trying on a variety of different shoes while wearing extra thick socks that will simulate how your feet could feel when they swell due to walking long distances.  They also suggest choosing your shoes for comfort and not style, color or fashion.

Have a Goal in Mind : Whether it be finishing a 5K or 10K, or just walking to the end of your street and back, by setting a goal you are more apt to stick to it and boost your workout without even trying.

Take a Barefoot Walk : Sometimes it's ok to ditch your shoes and take a barefoot walk.  Choose a grassy or sandy area and go barefoot which can burn more calories, improve balance and strengthen your foot and ankle muscles.

Add Intervals to Your Typical Walking Workout : Just by adding some short “bursts” of fast walking or running to your traditional walking workout you can easily double your calorie burn.  You can either time your intervals, like every five minutes you fast walk/run for a minute, or you can choose landmarks to mark the start and finish of your interval session.  You will be able to tell whether or not you are exerting the correct amount of energy during these interval sessions depending upon how much your breathing changes between intervals.

Track Your Heart Rate : The best way to feel like you are working out with a personal trainer is to wear a heart rate monitor while you are walking.  It is the best way to know when you need to work harder and when to slow down.  You will need to know what your maximum heart rate should be : Subtract your age from 220 and aim to work between 60 percent and 80 percent of that number.

Hit the Hills : Choose a walking route that includes plenty of hills and inclines and not just straight-aways.  Hills and inclines are a great way to keep your routine consistently intense.

• healthy diet
• diet
• diet and exercise
• essential vitamins
• calories
• healthy
• vitamins and minerals
• detoxify your food
• avoid canned food

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Written by Lisa Jillanza

So you have decided to burn those extra pounds.  There is no best way to address this problem but to working on it consciously.  You can go to the gym and relentlessly jog your way to a fitter you.  Exercising is a proven and effective method to burn fats.  However, this activity will compete for your time.  You have everyday tasks that require the same amount of attention.  A suggested way to burn fat is through being conscious of what you eat.  Yes, what you take into your body often dictates your weight.  In this article, you will learn of various fat burning foods that you have to incorporate to lose those fats in a zap.

A helpful ally

The key to eliminating fats is to help your body in breaking these fats down.  In this task, you will be needing the help of another nutrient : protein.  Protein will aid you in weight loss in several ways.  First, it takes a lot more energy to break down protein compared to other foods, and according to experts, proteins does a better job in reducing hunger compared to carbs.  Also, protein builds up muscle mass you need to have a more efficient workout.  Get the protein you need from eggs.  The albumin or egg white is rich in protein and contains little to no fat.

Fats to burn fats

Yes, you heard it right!  It might sound crazy, but omega-3 fatty acids from fats of fish such as salmon will supply you of your needs.  The exact mechanism is unknown but researchers observed this consistent pattern in their studies.  Other studies suggest that omega -3 fatty acids can satisfy your cravings up to two hours after eating a fish meal.  Also, include other omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods such as canned tuna and herring to your diet.

Something from your kitchen

Vinegar is a kitchen staple.  But did you know that vinegar can help you burn fats?  It can stimulate a certain gene in your body responsible for breaking down fat. If you up for it, slurp about one tablespoon of vinegar a day.  To eliminate its acidic taste, dilute it with soda or milk.

Fruitful choices

If you are looking for fruits to add in your fat burning diet, pick pears and apple.  What do these fruits have?  These two fruits contain flavonoids.  It is natural substance that fights off fats.  It is observed in studies that women who consumed lots of flavonoids had significantly lower rise in body mass index in a period of 14 years compared to women who ate the least.

Another fruit you should consider is grapefruit.  Its fleshy white membranes are said to lower insulin and regulate your blood sugar and metabolism.

Avocados are often mistaken as a fatty fruit.  What people do not know is that this fruit is actually a powerful fat burner.  It has monosaturated fat loosen up cell membranes, allowing fat-burning hormones to act more on the cells.  It also contains substances that disable hormones that promote fat storage.  Also, it pumps up metabolism by providing defenses to the energy-producing components of the cells against free radical damage.  Yummy meal ideas:  Eat this fruit with tomatoes and salt as a morning power up.  Or you can add avocado to green bean salad and spinach.

Burners in a cup

Most of us love sipping coffee as part of our morning rituals.  But coffee can actually get your body in right shape.  Coffee is a powerful adrenaline stimulant.  Once adrenaline is released into your system, it signals your body to burn fat.  A cup of coffee several minutes before a workout will boost your performance in exercises.  You will burn more fats as a result.