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The Benefits of Water for Constipation with Celtic Sea Salt to Avoid Dehydration and Dry Skin

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Water and Salt Regulate Your Body Temperature.

You may not always be thinking about water and salt; however, your body thinks of it. All your cells are screaming for it because your body is 70% water, and your brain contains more water. On average, you have about 8 to 10 tablespoons of salt within you! Water and salt form the basis of blood and lymph, lubricates joints and organs, regulates body temperature, preserves muscles and keeps your skin looking young. Adequately, maintain yourself, by making sure you get the right amount of oxygen, water, salt, potassium, exercise and food. No one can live without these!

 

When you submerge a prune in water, its plumpness expands, and it is divine and tasty. Your body also requires lots of water to maintain health because it eliminates 2.5 to 4 quarts of water a day through breathing, perspiration and excretion. Your body harbors approximately 50 quarts of water in total. When your water reserves are not adequately replenished throughout the day you quickly begin to suffer from the symptoms of dehydration. You may suddenly get a headache or feel hungry or thirsty. It is not advisable to wait until you feel eager to get a drink of water because your organs will have already begun to suffer unnecessary stress and started harboring water, creating edema.

Water and salt are your substance! Drink many glasses of water every day for optimal health.

The Effects of Dehydration Are Serious!

Dehydration causes acne, constipation, foul breath, constant sneezing, nose bleeds, dry and itchy skin, headaches, dried coughs and adult-onset diabetes. It is the root of serious degenerative diseases like cardiovascular problems, lower-back pain, ulcers, pancreatitis, adrenal fatigue, arthritis, asthma, high-blood pressure and digestive problems. You’ll wither and die if you don’t drink enough water, because your blood holds up to 83% water, while your bones are 22%, water and muscles are 75% water. Drinking water does cure heartburn.

You need water to flush toxins from your body to enjoy a healthy kick! If your urine is dark yellow, brown or orange, you are becoming dehydrated. It’s better if the color of your urine is lighter, yellow or clear. Furthermore, your stools should also be soft and light brown in color. If you have an arduous time in passing bowls that are odorous, then you seriously need more water.

Constipation causes unusually small amounts of fecal toxic poisoning to reenter your blood stream by releasing toxins and gases, that destroy all organs and surrounding tissue. This havoc pollutes your blood, preventing it from removing your cell’s wastes. Your intelligent body protects you by storing these toxic poisons in fat cells, though morbid thoughts and depression set in.

Dehydration is a grave condition because it seriously stresses all your organ systems and sets you up for the manifestation of disease. A natural cure is to drink more water throughout the day and not wait until you are thirsty. Drink at least half your body weight in ounces. Drink more water if you’re involved in moderate or vigorous exercise! Every six ounces of caffeine or alcoholic drink will cause dehydration. Since they’re considered diuretics. You’ll need to increase the amount of water you drink to an additional ten to twelve ounces to feel re-hydrated after a cup of coffee or alcohol.

Opt to Drink Eight to Ten Glasses of Water a Day or More with Mineral Salt

Nothing destroys life faster than a lack of water consumption. It is necessary to drink at least eight to ten glasses of water daily. Next to oxygen, water is the lifeblood of your body.

Every cell of your body requires water, and it desperately needs real salt to push the water into your cells. Understand not all salts are equal today. Regular table salt sold in the supermarkets creates oxidative stress, because they’re extremely bleached, and also pumped with anti-caking agents like aluminum. Aluminum toxicity does cause Alzheimer’s disease. Cheap table salt is also robbed of all its essential minerals, and essence of life. It does not create equilibrium throughout your body, except cause confusion and disease instead. So, it’s better to avoid such salts. Make sure you don’t oversalt.

Why would you take in so much salt? Unless you are craving it for some reason or another! This can cause high blood pressure and a headache for the doctor that is treating you, because you can easily cure this ailment by drinking more water with a little less salt. The high blood pressure medications simply cause you to urinate when you don’t feel thirsty anymore. This also causes dizziness. Now, who wants to fall and loose their balance. No one right! This has been my experience based on the studies I have done regarding High Blood Pressure. Therefore, carry one with caution.

The Benefits of Drinking Warm Water & Celtic Sea Salt

Natural salt is not dry or white, but normally a little gray and feels damp. An excellent unrefined sea salt is Celtic Sea Salt from a pristine region in France. This unrefined sea salt contains about eighty natural minerals that your body needs. The taste satisfies with a tangy savor. It should definitely be your natural choice for a healthy lifestyle.

Salt Helps You Breathe too

Salt is the catalyst that forces the water into your cells. Salt is also the natural environment outside your cells and water is the natural environment inside your cells. Salt acts as the electrical component that keeps your organs functioning at peak efficiency! Without water and salt, you wouldn’t be able to correctly digest your food or have a bowl movement, nor have the energy to breathe at all.

Your Body’s Cry for Water

Dr. Batmanghelidj states in his book “Your Body’s Many Cries for Water;” water and salt cures and prevents asthma. You can reverse adult-onset-diabetes in its’ early stages by consuming more water with the right salt. The salt you should be eating is not the common table salt; it’s rather organic sea salt that is composed of minerals in the right proportion.

You Can’t Live Without Salt!

Water and salt are such a pure and natural combination, yet extremely critical in sustaining all your life processes. You can’t live without it!

Water and salt are essential to your brain cells. Salt extracts excess acidity from your brain cells and from the cells in your body. Water and salt balance the sugar levels in your blood. It’s used as a powerhouse in generating the energy needed by your cells.

Salt is the perfect catalyst that makes you absorb the nutrients in food through your intestinal tract. Salt is also vital for the clearance of mucus, and oppressive phlegm. Salt makes the structure of your bone’s firm, prevents muscle cramps and regulates your sleep, including spicing up your libido and preventing varicose veins. Eating enough salt will reduce a double chin if you have an unsightly one.

Eat Celtic Sea Salt Every Day

Conventional medicine downgrades the need for water and salt in lieu of pushing medication to treat symptoms of dehydration and salt distress. When an ordinary cure would be to increase water intake with unrefined sea salt in food.

 

Source: hubpages.com

Chocolate Helps Reduce Chance of AFib

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Chocolate brings smiles to many people. They like to give chocolate to friends, family and their special loved ones. Few people don’t like chocolate. To many people, especially women, chocolate is a major necessary food group all by itself. But what do you really know about chocolate, its origin, what it really is and its many health benefits?

Chocolate comes from the Theobroma cacao plant. The cacao beans are roasted and then ground. By itself, it’s a bitter tasting product, but when mixed with sweeteners like sugar, it becomes an extremely delicious treat.

The name comes from the Mayan Indians who called it ‘chocolatl’, meaning ‘food of the gods’. They introduced it to the Spanish who took the delicacy back to Europe.

The chocolate we know today is the product of the ground up roasted cacao beans and a variety of other ingredients. The more ground chocolate, the darker and richer the chocolate product is. Dark chocolate has more ground chocolate in it than lighter chocolates. Milk chocolate is when milk is added to make the chocolate product creamier.

Dark chocolate can have a more bitter taste without enough sweetener added, but the darker a chocolate a product is, the more health benefits it has. However, please note that while dark chocolate has a number of health benefits, that the amount of sweetener and other products added to the chocolate may not be nearly as healthy.

The following list of the health benefits of dark chocolate is a compilation from a number of sources:

  • Helps lower cholesterol
  • Helps prevent memory loss
  • Helps reduce risk of strokes
  • Helps reduce risk of heart disease
  • MAY benefit fetal growth and development
  • Helps reduce risk of diabetes
  • Helps blood circulation
  • Rich in needed minerals
  • Healthy antioxidant
  • Helps reduce sun damage to skin
  • Improves mood
  • Good for brain function
  • Helps lower blood pressure
  • Helps reduce appetite
  • Helps quiet coughs
  • Helps improve vision

There is a lot that can be said about each and every one of these health benefits, but for the purpose of this article, I want to focus on one new benefit discovered that helps with heart health.

Are you familiar with the term AFib? You hear it quite a bit on some popular television shows. It stands for atrial fibrillation, which is a quivering or irregular heartbeat. AFib, if not treated, can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart complication. In the US, there are nearly 3 million people who have been diagnosed with AFib.

A study done in Denmark shows that a small amount of dark chocolate eaten weekly can help reduce the risk of developing AFib.

“The study, published in the journal Heart, used data collected for a long-term study of about 55,500 people in Denmark. The participants were between 50 and 64 years old when the study began, and provided information about their diets when they entered the study between 1993 and 1997. Researchers then linked the diet data to Denmark’s national health registries to see who was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib).” …

“Based on their data, about 3,346 cases of AFib occurred in study participants over an average of 13.5 years. Those who ate one serving, which is about 1 ounce of chocolate per week, were 17 percent less likely to be diagnosed with atrial fibrillation by the end of the study than those who reported eating chocolate less than once a month.”

“Those who ate 2 to 6 ounces per week were less likely to be diagnosed with AFib, while those who ate more than an ounce of chocolate per day were 16 percent less likely to have the condition. For women, the biggest risk reduction was linked to eating one serving of chocolate per week. For men, the biggest risk reduction was associated with eating two to six servings per week.”

By reducing the chances of AFib, that helps explain why so many sources say chocolate is good for heart health. Less AFib, means less chance of blot clots, stroke, heart disease and heart failure.

Lead author of the study, Elizabeth Mostofsky stated:

“I think our message here is that moderate chocolate intake as part of a healthy diet is an option.”

Note, she said it’s an option, not a requirement. Remember that the chocolate you eat is high in calories and sweeteners. While the chocolate itself may help reduce the risk of diabetes, the sweeteners added to it may increase the risk of diabetes. Moderation is the key.

Unknown Study to Help You Ward Off Colds and Flu

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There have been a number of studies on the beneficial health effects of hot peppers. One can do a search online and find a wealth of information touting adding hot peppers or cayenne pepper to your diet.

Health Freedom Resources lists five foods that will help boost your immune system and help lessen your chances of catching a cold or the flu. The five foods they list are:

1. Garlic: Contains allicin which helps fight off and kill bacteria and viruses. Helps to stimulate the immune system and ward of colds and flu.

2. Onions: They contain quercetin, which breaks up mucus in your head and chest and helps to boost the immune system. Onions also contain allicin which helps kill some bacteria and viruses and slows down the spread of others. Did you know that when you smell onions and your eyes tear and your nose runs, that it is also stimulating your immune system to fight infections?

3. Ginger: They contain shogaols and gingerols that help stimulate blood circulation and opens your sinuses. Ginger also helps sooth sore throats and helps remove mucus from the chest by making you cough.

4. Horseradish: Horseradish causes the body to heat up and encourages coughing which helps to breakup and expel mucus. It also increases blood flow that helps to flush out infections.

5. Cayenne pepper: Contain capsicum, which is a big source of vitamin C, which is a boost to the immune system. They also contain high amounts of antioxidants and beta carotene, which help boost immune system. They raise body temperature causing someone to sweat and increase immune system activity.

Another website, FitnessMagazine.com, also lists five foods that help fight colds and flu. Their list includes: whole grains, bananas, cayenne peppers, sweet potatoes and garlic.

However, there was one unofficial study about the beneficial effects of hot peppers in helping to prevent colds and flu. You will not find it anywhere on the internet or in any scientific or medical journal. I seriously doubt that it was ever published, but in my opinion, is THE most compelling study ever conducted.

When I was college, one of my classmates, Ben (he was in several of my classes), came from a copper mining town in east-central Arizona. His dad ran a local drug store and was the pharmacist. At the time, the town was small enough that virtually everyone relied on this drug store for many of their needs.

At the time I knew Ben and had the opportunity to meet his dad, I learned of a simple study his dad had been conducting for the past 15-years. Since he knew practically everyone in town, he also knew who was catching colds and the flu and who weren’t. Along with their names and how frequently they got sick, Ben’s dad always asked one question – did they eat hot peppers on a daily basis? He had 15-years of data that showed that the vast majority of people who caught colds and the flu either never ate hot peppers or only had them infrequently. Almost all of the people who rarely or never caught a cold or the flu, ate hot peppers daily. Oh, he checked a number of other factors, but the only single factor that he could point to as making a difference was the daily ingestion of hot peppers. Those who did, rarely got sick and those who didn’t were the ones that regularly got sick.

Take it for what you will, I just thought I would share this unknown study with you and let you make your own decisions. If you do catch colds and get the flu, do you eat hot peppers daily? Think about it.

Why You Should Eat Avocados Every Day (If You Aren’t Already!)

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Avocados are truly one of nature’s little miracle foods and we encourage you to enjoy them several times a week. These little green gems can do so much to help keep you well from head to toe, they’re simply too good to pass up. Here are a few thoughts on why you need to get to know them better — and eat them more often:

1. Relax. Avocados won’t make you fat!

The heyday of food-fat-phobia is over. If you’re still avoiding avocados because of some misguided, left-over-from-the-80’s belief that avocados will make you fat, you’re barking up the wrong tree. You’re also missing out on an excellent source of monounsaturated fat – the good fat also found in olive oil – that helps boost heart health.

What’s more, those good fat and fiber-rich avocados can also help curb hunger. Studies indicate that meals which include avocado tend to increase feelings of satiety for longer than those without, so consider adding a few avocado slices to your daily diet to help tame between-meal munchies.

2. An avocado is a creamy, delicious, nutrient-bomb.

As with many superfoods, it’s what’s inside that counts, and avocados are a nutritional goldmine. What’s inside? In addition to “good” monounsaturated fat, avocados pack plenty of health-boosting nutrients to help your body thrive. Underneath the tough green exterior lies over 14 minerals; protein, complete, with all 18 essential amino acids; soluble fiber, to trap excess cholesterol and send it out of the system; phytosterols; polyphenols; carotenoids; omega 3s; vitamins B-complex, C, E and K, to name a few.

3. They do amazing things for your long-term health.

OK, so avocados are packed with nutrition, but what does it all mean in practical terms? It means a belly that feels fuller longer; a brain that’s being well-supplied with the nutrients needed to function optimally now and down the road; and a body that’s receiving the nutrition it needs to help protect it from heart disease, diabetes, cancer, degenerative eye and brain diseases.

What’s more, all those nutrients, good fats and fiber in avocados can help naturally lower LDL and raise your good HDL cholesterol, help regulate blood sugar and tamp down inflammation throughout the body and brain. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why it’s called a superfood.

4. Avocados play well with others.

With their distinct fresh green flavor and creamy (dairy-free!) texture, avocados play well with lots of the other foods on your plate. What’s truly remarkable though is that the research indicates that avocados can help with the absorption of carotinoids, the compounds found in orange and red fruits and veggies that can help protect against cancer. So while they may seem a bit indulgent, avocados could turn out to be lifesavers. Here few ways to dig in:

-Add a quarter of an “avo” to your morning shake – or try my Chocolate Avocado smoothie.

-Enjoy an avocado half as a nutritious side dish with your morning eggs instead of potatoes or toast.

-Spread a few avo slices on toasted paleo bread for a quick pre-workout or mid-day snack.

-Add a half an avo to your lunchtime salad to keep you full till dinner — and hold the mayo!

-Add as a delicious “mix-in” for quinoa, beans or wild rice.

-Top hot or cold soups with chunks of avo to add fiber and “super-size” the nutrients in your bowl.

-Blend with lemon juice, water, vinegar, spices and whip into a nutritious creamy salad dressing or blend in a touch more liquid and drizzle the zesty sauce over chicken and fish dishes.

-Top burgers, egg dishes, chicken or fish with avo slices, or mash into guacamole.

-Blend up your own super-nutritious home-made baby food by combining avocado with fruits and veggies to get little ones off to a healthy start.

5. Treat them right and they’ll return the favor.

At times it can be tricky to find an avocado that’s ready to eat with tonight’s dinner, so a little advance planning is necessary. True avo aficionados recommend buying a few firm ones at a time and then strategically staggering the ripening process so the avocados are ready when you are – and don’t all turn ripe at the same moment.

To expedite ripening, AvocadoCentral.com suggests sealing one or two avocados at a time into a brown paper bag, along with an apple or banana. Over the course of 2 to 3 days, the brown-bagged fruit will release gasses, which will aid the ripening process. Remove the ripe-and-ready-to-eat avo, replace with a firm unripe one, reseal the bag, and repeat!

Some tips:

-Buying avocados? The good news is that conventionally grown avos make the Environmental Working Group’s Clean 15 List, meaning they’re relatively free of pesticides, and are OK to eat as an alternative to organic versions.

-Cut into your avocado before it’s fully ripened? Spritz the exposed fruit with lemon juice, cover or wrap tightly and let it ripen in the fridge for a day or two. If that’s not enough, salvage the fruit, cut into chunks and add to your next smoothie.

-How you cut and peel your avo matters more than you might think. To do it right, wash the outer skin and pat dry. Cut in half lengthwise. Pop out the seed with a spoon or tap a knife across the top of the seed to slightly imbed it and twist (but be careful not to hit your fingers). Instead of scooping out the fruit, peel skin off gently with your fingers to get the maximum nutritional bang for your buck. Turns out, the dark green fruit closest to the skin is the most nutritious.

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Photo:stockpilingmoms.com

Source: mindbodygreen.com

Do You Have Brain Fog? Check Out Tips To Get Free of the Fog.

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Have you ever walked around my home feeling like a thick blanket of fog had invaded your brain.

Staring blankly at your computer screen, wondering, “what am I supposed to be doing right now?” walk into a room and think, “why did I come in here?” Have you ever been at a store and wonder, “why am I here? Now, what was I supposed to get again?”

Have you ever felt so foggy in your brain that you couldn’t focus on tasks or concentrate on anything…at all? Have you ever almost forgotten to pick your child up at school or that you had an important meeting? I have. And it’s the worst feeling.

You know, that one where you feel that pit in your stomach…that knot telling you you’re forgetting something but you don’t remember what that is. While I was in the throes of thyroid disease, this happened often. It was debilitating. I felt like a fool. I found myself embarrassed often…forgetting names, appointments and to-dos. There was no lighthouse in my brain to guide my way to shore…to my thoughts and ideas. I wondered if I was losing my mind.

Has this ever happened to you?

One of the many and MAJOR symptoms, or clues, that your thyroid may be imbalanced is the experience of having brain fog. It’s one of the most common complaints I hear in my practice and it’s one of the first symptoms we work on banishing to help clients reclaim their lives.

Are you losing your mind?

We have these immune cells in our brain called microglia. 10-15% of all cells in the brain are microglial cells. This is important to note because they are a powerhouse cell which mount the body’s first and main active form of immune defense in the central nervous system…..brain fog and a crazy nervous system, sound familiar?

Anyway, when these microglial cells get agitated by inflammation from a thyroid imbalance perhaps brought on by our diet or lifestyle, they mount a pretty potent attack on the brain and create that feeling of brain fog.

This is the same process linked to disorders such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other inflammatory conditions.

It’s all connected.

When we’re working to reverse a thyroid condition, we have to address multiple systems in the body at the same time. This is why there is no magic bullet, no quick fix to thyroid disorders (man, do I wish there was!) A thyroid imbalance or immune dysfunction is created by a multiple systems break down. So, when we want to banish that brain fog, we MUST look at several systems – the brain, the belly, our detox pathways, diet and lifestyle.

5 ways to start banishing brain fog

Remember those 5 areas we need to address initially to jump-start healing? Here are simple ways you can address each area effectively and start seeing some serious relief.

1. Heal the gut

Inflammation can start in the gut and the gut-brain connection is undeniable. We could discuss the science behind this all day but let’s talk about some quick tips to start lowering the inflammation in your gut and your brain.

Whether it comes to thyroid health, losing weight, halting the autoimmune response, reducing inflammation or ridding yourself of draining symptoms like brain fog, healing your gut is the first place to start. So, let’s talk about some real world strategies.

Trade your cup of Joe for a cup of bone broth.

Say what?

Cooking the bones, tendons, skin, and other parts of the animal that we don’t otherwise eat to make bone broth releases many beneficial vitamins, minerals, and other health-promoting substances into the broth in forms that are easy for our bodies to digest and use.

For example, bone broth contains collagen, proline, glycine, and glutamine that are great for your health, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon, sulphur and others that reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and even help heal allergies and other disorders.

Gelatin, which is produced from the breakdown of collagen, is particularly helpful for those of us with leaky gut and other digestive issues, because it can actually soothe the lining of the digestive tract and help heal and reverse dietary allergies and food sensitivities.

All of these substances are also anti-inflammatory, which is incredibly important for people fighting autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s and who want to limit inflammation in the brain.

Get your probiotic on.

As part of any gut health program, you’ll want to include potent probiotics to repopulate your gut with the good bacteria.

Support your digestive juices.

If you frequently suffer from heartburn, it might not just be the foods you eat, but an underlying problem of poor digestive enzyme activity. Betaine HCL + Pepsin can help increase stomach acid and enzyme activity. One caveat, though: you don’t want to supplement with HCL for so long that your body doesn’t rely on itself to produce stomach acid. This is a great jump start as you begin healing the gut but you should taper off use as your gut is repaired. This is a supplement that I recommend you take under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner.

2. Go gluten-free

Gluten molecules resemble thyroid tissue. They are highly inflammatory in the gut and the brain. If you have intestinal permeability (leaky gut) or a sensitivity to gluten (which most people with thyroid conditions do), your body will mistakenly attack your thyroid believing it is attacking the gluten molecules.

What happens with autoimmune disease is that the body is having an overactive immune response against substances and tissues normally present in the body. In addition, the thyroid gland is connected to so many of the body’s systems including gastrointestinal function, stomach acid production, adrenal hormone metabolism, changes in brain chemistry and liver detoxification. So, when a gluten molecule escapes through the walls of the digestive tract and the body starts attacking the gluten, it inadvertently begins to attack the thyroid as well, continuing its destruction.

That’s pretty serious stuff. Educated doctors and thyroid researchers insist that if you want to stop the destruction of the thyroid and the brain, you must stop eating gluten.

You may have heard all of this before, but now is the time to start acting on it. If you truly want to heal your thyroid condition and eliminate brain fog, you’ve got to love your body enough to put your hands up and drop the croissant.

“How can I give up my pasta or pizza? What will I eat instead?” you wonder. “Will I ever be full?”

I promise you will and there are loads of delicious, naturally gluten-free foods out there. Giving up gluten seems unappealing and daunting, I know. But you can shift your thinking from giving something up to gaining something back: your health, a clear mind, an energized body. This is not an act of self-deprivation, my friend; it is an act of self love.

I’ve been through it, and before I started living gluten-free, I wasn’t sure how I would ever succeed. But I did succeed. And I learned loads of tips and tricks and have a host of new recipe resources to boot. I began feeling so much better after parting ways with gluten that I don’t even feel like I need it anymore. Sure, a piece of fresh-baked bread smells delightful but my body doesn’t actually crave it anymore. And if this former chef and total foodie can do it, so can you. So go ahead…just do it!

3. Make sleep a priority

Poor sleep is a typical symptom for people with thyroid disorders and often it is just accepted as something you have to live with as part of having the disease. The problem is that insomnia or restless sleep must be addressed so that your endocrine system can be supported in order to heal.

We can’t be flippant about a sleep disorder. Too often, it’s accepted, solely medicated or totally disregarded. Discovering the most effective way to get to sleep and sleep well is a must for loving yourself back to health.

Here’s why:

1. Sleep loss can cause weight gain.

2. Lack of sleep can make you feel depressed.

3. Sleep deprivation can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, heart attack, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes.

4. Lack of sleep affects libido.

5. Sleepiness impairs judgments and makes you prone to/causes accidents.

6. Sleep loss affects intellect and memory. (uh, hello!)

7. Lack of sleep ages your skin. (Yikes!)

Sound familiar? A lot of the symptoms of not getting enough sleep mirror the symptoms of thyroid, autoimmune disease and brain inflammation, so you must make sure you’re getting enough sleep to be sure that your symptoms aren’t being caused or exacerbated by exhaustion.

Simple tricks for getting to sleep

  • Maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule. I did this by trying to go to bed 15 minutes earlier each night for 5 nights until I was able to fall asleep by 10pm. I also set my alarm for 6am each day so I could exercise. After 3 days on the 10pm–6am schedule, I started waking up at 6am naturally and was noticeably less foggy.

  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and other chemicals that interfere with sleep. I can’t stress this enough. I know you’re tired now in the morning so you like your cup of coffee but giving it up could be the difference between sleepless nights and sound rest. I went from drinking coffee several times a day to doing a caffeine detox. I don’t need or crave caffeine anymore. It’s pretty amazing.

  • Make your bedroom a comfortable sleep environment. Keep your bedroom uncluttered and cozy with the right bedding, blankets and a heater (if you need it).

  • Establish a calming pre-sleep routine. For instance, read something spiritual or meditative before bed. It’s actually a great time to do a 10–15 minute meditation.

  • Go to sleep when you’re tired. Don’t stay up to watch the end of that TV show or keep reading to finish a chapter. Research shows that our body wakes itself up after 10pm. Once you’re up later in the night, you’ll get a second wind and may struggle with falling asleep altogether.

  • Keep lights low in the evening. Bright household lights and light from computers and other electronic devices can disrupt messengers in your brain from eliciting the sleep response.

  • Don’t nap close to bedtime. Eating a light meal really helps with this one. If you eat a heavy, carb-laden dinner, you produce chemicals which will make you sleepy and want to take a nap. Taking a nap after dinner is gonna make it hard to fall asleep when it’s best for your body. Six to eight hours of restful sleep each night is crucial for maximum rejuvenation. Interestingly, studies have shown that your body is able to rejuvenate better if you fall asleep in the hours before midnight. Meaning, if you are sleeping eight hours between 10pm—6am, you will feel more rested than if you slept eight hours between Midnight and 8am I can attest to that as I’ve tested it out myself. If I fall asleep by 10pm, I can jump out of bed at 6am and am actually energized enough to exercise. When I stay up late watching TV or reading and go to sleep at 11 or 11:30pm, I’ll drag in the morning even if I’m sleeping the same amount of time.

  • Try setting yourself a sleep schedule and sticking to it. If you feel resistance to this, ask yourself why. Make a list of the best excuses you can think of, and then ask yourself, “Is X more important than my health?” Be honest with yourself and remember that loving yourself enough to give yourself what you need is the key to supporting healing.

4. Dry brush the ditz away

Dry brushing is a great way to stimulate your lymphatic system and my favorite way to start the morning. It’s quick to do (takes about 5 minutes) and I swear, it’s better than a cup of coffee. Yes, I just said that! BETTER THAN A CUP OF COFFEE. When you dry brush, your skin becomes invigorated, your being is enlivened and your brain wakes up! Once I’m finished dry brushing, I’m ready to start the day.

Do you know what your lymphatic system does? I didn’t until mine stopped working. Your lymphatic system is an extensive network that exists virtually everywhere in the body. It serves as the body’s primary system of immunity as it functions to create immune cells. Like a cleaning crew, this system also flushes toxins out of the body and moves fat to the circulatory system.

Toxins in our body can create inflammation everywhere in the body, including the thyroid, the gut and the brain. Remember those microglial cells, they don’t like what toxins do in the body so eliminating our toxic burden is key to keeping things calm in the thyroid, gut and brain.

Lymph, the clear liquid moved through the body via your lymphatic system is full of white blood cells (lymphocytes) which are your body’s main tools when there is an immune response. Having an efficient and functioning lymphatic system is crucial to good health.

Here’s more on why dry brushing is so good for you:

  • It relaxes the nervous system. Although dry brushing can feel a little odd the first few times you try it, those bristle are helping to stimulate nerve endings in the skin which refreshes your nervous system and helps keep ‘ya calm.
  • It increases circulation, buffs and smoothes your skin (great at exfoliating dry skin) and is touted to reduce the appearance of cellulite (I haven’t done it enough yet to support that claim but you can bet your bum I’ll tell you if it works!)
  • It helps with nutrient absorption, removal of toxins and improves blood circulation. This helps you stay healthy and keeps your body running more efficiently—and is totally key for supporting your thyroid health. Simple steps to dry brushing at home:
    1. Buy a good dry brush.
    2. Make sure your skin is dry (best to do this before your bath or shower).
    3. Begin from bottom and move upwards. You’ll use gentle circular motions or longer smoother strokes or a combination of both. I like to do smooth strokes for the legs but round strokes for the ankles, knees, bum, tummy, and elbows.
    4. Always start at your ankles and move toward your heart. Make sure to move the brush in the same direction.
    5. When you get to your back brush from the neck down instead toward your lower back.
    6. Be careful with sensitive skin and never brush over sores, shingles, scars, sun burned areas or areas with skin cancer.

Now that I’m in the habit of dry brushing, I can’t go a day without doing it. It really helps banish brain fog. You’ll notice its power too!

5. Oxygenate that noggin’ with some exercise

Having a fit brain and body does a world of good for brain fog. When I’m feeling fatigued and foggy, I jump on a rebounder for 5 minutes.

Physical activity provides much needed oxygen and blood flow to the brain. It stimulates the expression of hundreds of protective genes, and creates Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which is necessary to grow new neurons and help them survive. BDNF also protects your mature neurons from damage from stress, environmental toxins, and even traumatic brain injury.

Aerobic exercise has been shown to increase brain volume and to improve memory, concentration and executive function (complex thought and planning ability). Being sedentary, on the other hand, destroys your brain’s vascular network, which is why Alzheimer’s disease is now being called “type 3 diabetes” by some researchers.

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Photo:sclwl05.de

Your brain on the rebound

Ever heard of the exercise known as rebounding? You probably did it when you were a kid—without even knowing it! Rebounding is basically just bouncing on a trampoline or rebounder. It’s low-impact aerobic exercise that can jump-start your metabolism (pun intended!)—oh, and P.S. It’s pretty fun!

Rebounding is gentle enough for people who suffer from thyroid disorders and other chronic fatigue disorders, but it’s powerful enough to get your blood pumping and your body working. Plus, it helps your body detoxify by stimulating the lymphatic system and sweating out the toxins.

Rebounding reduces your body fat; firms your arms, legs, thighs, abdomen, and hips; increases your agility; strengthens your muscles overall; provides an aerobic effect for your cardiopulmonary systems; rejuvenates your body when it’s tired, and generally puts you in a state of mental and physical wellness. Wow!

That’s a lot of goodness from this one simple exercise. You can find an affordable rebounder and store it under your bed or in the closet. Mine sits in our closet and I hop on it for a minute or two before getting dressed in the morning.

Big Bonus Strategy

Reduce sugar!

Unfortunately, on a general level, sugar inhibits all healing. Sugar creates inflammation in your body and brain, turns off your body’s appetite-control function, leads to weight gain and belly fat, feeds candida (yeast) and has a host of additional toxic effects. All of that sounds terrible enough but it gets worse.

Many people with thyroid dysfunction seem to be especially sensitive to refined sugars or even consuming too many natural sugars. When you constantly consume sugar, you literally burn out your adrenal and thyroid glands and inflame your brain. There is a risk of damaging or even destroying the thyroid. If you don’t reduce or eliminate sugar in the diet, there is a risk for permanent damage and that’s no good!

Sugar can also affect your mood and energy levels.

I am not saying to cut sugar out of your diet forever. Fruits definitely have some health benefits as does raw honey, but by eliminating sugar from your diet for a short period of time, you let your body learn to regulate your blood sugar levels, get a better sense of when you’re actually hungry, increase your immune system’s ability to fight off illness, ward off candida infections and keep your brain functioning properly.

We dive deep into sugar detox in The Thyroid Fix in 6 but all you need to do to reduce your sugar is literally to stop eating it.

Banishing brain fog really gave me back my life…and it didn’t take that long to do it. By taking a few nourishing steps, like the ones listed above, I was able to see results quickly. So join me! Come out of the fog and see the light. It’s so clear out here….and now I know what I came in here for!

Source: hypothyroidmom.com

Here Are 20 Different Ways You Can Use Coconut Oil

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There’s been a lot of hype about coconut oil lately, and there are so many claims being made that it sounds nothing short of a miracle. Well it’s really not a cure-all, and what works for other people may not work for you, but it still is pretty dandy to have around. With a little bit of resourcefulness and a dash of creativity, you can find over one hundred everyday uses for coconut oil.

1. Moisturize Your Skin: The very first thing on this list, before even delving into the “edible” benefits of coconut oil, has to be moisturizing. In lieu of your regular lotion, coconut oil delivers a refreshing, healing, burst of moisture that penetrates your skin and works to truly heal it (not just soak in and dry up!) It can feel oily at first, but that’s why it’s important to only use a little-it goes a long way. Give it a minute and it will dry beautifully. Use as you would regular lotion.

2. Conditioner: When the teeny tiny overlapping plates that make up our outer hair shaft get rumpled and out of whack, coconut oil is there to smooth those tiny little cells right back into place, and hold them there. You can use it on your entire scalp/head for deep conditioning, but you can generally just use it on your ends, where it’s the hardest for the body’s natural oils to reach, and where the most breakage occurs.

3. Weight Loss: Coconut oil and weight loss-what’s really going on? Well, if you sit around eating coconut oil, you aren’t going to lose weight. However, if used to substitute other fats, it can help you drop the pounds by taking the place of those other calories. Unlike most saturated fats, it’s mainly comprised of medium chain fatty acids, versus long chain fatty acids. This difference in molecular structure means that it doesn’t get packed away as fat as easily and instead is sent straight to the liver to be metabolized, giving you a boost in energy. This energy in turn makes exercising easier, and the exercise in turn helps you lose weight. Another major factor that it plays is as an appetite suppressant. Craving something you shouldn’t be? Have a tablespoon or 2 of coconut oil, and that sensation won’t last long!

4. Energy Booster: If weight loss isn’t your goal, just run with the fact (no pun intended) that it gives you a great boost in energy-and who doesn’t need some help in that department every now and again? Some people also feel it helps boost their mental alertness.

5. Lower Cholesterol and Risk of Heart Disease: Cholesterol is a waxy substance found your cells, which helps continuously build more vital cells. It goes about its way through your blood stream attached to proteins known as lipoproteins. There are low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL.) HDL is the “good” cholesterol-you want to lower LDL, but raise HDL. LDL carries cholesterol throughout your body and delivers it to organs and tissues. The problem is, if you have too much cholesterol, the excess keeps circulating. The constantly circulating LDL will eventually penetrate blood vessel walls where they build up plaques and narrow blood vessels, sometimes to the point blocking blood flow, causing coronary artery disease. HDL, on the other hand, picks up excess cholesterol and brings it to your liver to be broken down. Coconut oil, probably due to its high levels of lauric acid, will boost HDL. There’s no solid evidence saying that coconut oil alone will prevent heart disease, but there is solid evidence that it boosts HDL, therefore lowering cholesterol, and hypothetically reducing the risk of heart disease. Take ½-1 tablespoon daily.

6. Reduce Risk (or effect) of Alzheimer’s : Alzheimer’s is devastating to all who experience it, whether personally or with a friend or family member. It is no wonder that we search so desperately for a cure. The word that coconut oil could possibly “cure” or prevent Alzheimer’s started circulating with vigor when a pediatrician published a book about feeding coconut oil to her husband, who suffered from Alzheimer’s, and got positive results. Other studies have confirmed that ketones, which are essentially “brain food” provided to keep the brain functioning when the body runs lower on glucose, can help improve memory, and potentially “reverse” the effects of Alzheimer’s. It’s a much more complex subject and process, but that’s it in a really wrapped up nutshell. The dosing that I have uncovered implies 2 teaspoons taken daily with food to help improve cognitive function.

7. Exfoliating Body Scrub: One of my personal favorite uses for coconut oil is serving as a base for body or face scrubs. You can melt some down, stir in some sugar, let it cool, and then use as is. Or, for a fun little project, melt down about a half cup of coconut oil and pour into a muffin tin, soap mold, or anything of the like, and stir in 2-4 tablespoons of white or brown sugar. You can add more if you would like the texture to be coarser. I usually let it cool some before adding the sugar so you don’t just dissolve the grains. Pop it in the fridge and let it solidify and cool completely before removing from the mold. Slice off a piece when needed and use it to gently scrub and exfoliate your face/body (dampen your skin with water first.) Rinse off, apply moisturizer, and resist the urge to use it again until later in the week, otherwise you run the risk of drying your skin out.

 

8. Fight Inflammation : Coconut oil appears to have a direct effect on suppressing the natural chemicals responsible for mediating inflammation. The studies that have been done on this action so far point to lauric acid and capric acid as the biggest contributors, both of which are part of the magnificent medium chain fatty acids found naturally in coconut oil (capric acid alone makes up roughly 10% on its own.)

 

9. Shaving Cream : Nothing is more frustrating than lathering up with a bunch of shaving cream in the shower just to have to all melt off again as the water hits it. Luckily, water rolls right off oil, which means you have solid protection that allows your razor to glide smoothly over your skin. It also leaves it soft, moisturized, and safe from painful bumps and burns. Apply as you would any other cream before shaving. Here is our recipe for chemical-free shaving cream.

 

10. Bath Oil: Soften your bath water, and your skin, with a bit of coconut oil. Enjoy its lovely aroma and gently swish it around now and then to swirl it through the water. It will naturally coat your skin, leaving it smooth and healthy.

 

11. Constipation Relief: Take a tablespoon of coconut oil every morning on an empty stomach to keep your digestive track running smoothly. You can try 2 tablespoons to work out acute constipation as well.

 

12. Ease Arthritis Pain: Acute inflammation present with arthritis is responsible for quite a bit ofdiscomfort and stiffness that accompanies this common malady, which can be eased by the anti-inflammatory effects of the coconut oil. Massage a bit of the oil into each joint thoroughly 1-2 times a day to relieve soreness.

13. Treat Athletes Foot: The anti-fungal action of coconut oil helps fight off athlete’s foot when you apply it daily. Be sure to rinse your feet first and pat them dry, then thoroughly apply a thin layer of coconut oil, massaging it in well. Wash your hands before applying to the other foot to avoid spreading the fungus.

14. Say Goodbye to a Sore throat: Can’t ease that painful throat? Coconut oil provides a wonderful soothing coating, whether the discomfort is caused by dry air or an illness. Swallow ½-1 teaspoon up to 3 times daily to ease the pain, being sure to make one of those times right before bed. For an extra kick, melt the coconut oil down and stir in a little honey (its ok if it separates some.) When it is mostly room temp, mash up the mixture a little bit and use the same as above.

15. Lessen a Dry, Hacking, Cough: You don’t want to suppress your cough if it is productive, meaning you are coughing up phlegm. Your body needs to get rid of all that stuff. However, if you have a dry hacking cough, swallowing a teaspoon or so of coconut oil can help ease the itchy irritation. It is especially nice because it coats your throat and seems to protect it more from irritating things such as dust, whereas water only provides very temporary relief.

16. Oil/Butter Replacement: There’s no better way to get the benefits of coconut oil than to replace other less desirable fats with it. When cooking or baking, substitute it for butter or just about any oil. It lends moisture, freshness, and richness to baked goods, and a subtle complimentary flavor to savory dishes. How much you substitute will depend on the recipe you are making. For baking, most people will fall in the 1:1 ratio or 80% coconut oil 20% water when subbing for butter. For basic cakes, cookies, and brownies I find 1:1 to be sufficient. When it comes to more complex pastries that get their flaky puffiness when steam is escaping, you may find yourself tweaking the amount a little. For oil substituting, subbing 1:1 is a good route to go.

17. Improve Circulation: We need proper circulation to not only function, but to heal as well. Not to mention feeling cold all the time (or having people shudder at your frigid touch) isn’t fun. Coconut oil, taken internally, may help improve blood flow. As it can raise the levels of HDL-or “good”-cholesterol, the ratio between HDL and LDL-“bad” cholesterol-are evened. Since LDL cholesterol can affect the viscosity of blood, and “thicken” it, lower levels lead to thinner blood which leads to better circulation. Start with a ½ tablespoon a day and work up to 1 tablespoon to give your circulation an energy boost.

 

18. Flaky Scalp Treatment: Different from dandruff, having a flaky or dry scalp simply results in those annoying snowy white flakes that you can seem to get rid of. With its super moisturizing prowess, coconut oil can help provide nourishing moisture to a thirsty scalp. Wet your hair, and then massage coconut oil over scalp, using just enough to cover the area. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse it out. Follow up with a small amount of very mild shampoo to ensure a non-greasy look when finished. Repeat this at least 3 times a week, or as needed, to prevent dry scalp.

19. Ease Osteoporosis : Coconut oil can help ease osteoarthritis in a number of ways. Trabecular bone is one of two types of bone structure-it is “spongy” and has a higher surface are to mass ratio. It is typically the most harshly affected type of bone in osteoporosis. The trabecular number refers to measure of bone texture and structure, and marks the risk/severity of osteoporosis. Unlike plain calcium therapy, which reduced trabecular separation, coconut oil increased bone volume and the trabecular number in studies conducted with rats. Rats are good subjects to study when it comes to bone disease, as the remodeling and resorption process in rats is similar to that of humans. Osteoporosis caused by oxidative stress may also be lessened due to the potential anti-oxidant effects of coconut oil, while coconut oil also helps the absorption of calcium.

20. Minimize Heartburn: If you’re feeling the burn, swallow 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil. It can get a little coating in your tummy and ease the painful feeling of heartburn or acid reflux. It also helps get that bitter bile taste out of your mouth.

Source: everydayroots.com

The Top Inflammatory Foods + How To Detox From Them

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There are a multitude of diets to choose from, or exercise programs that run the body ragged. The simple truth is that our bodies weren’t meant to eat Lean Cuisine meals or to be engaged in hours and hours of intensive exercise. If a person examines the evolution of our body from the caveman days, they would see that the body thrives off of whole foods, clean meats and exercise that involves lots of walking.

Fast forward a few thousand years, and as a society, we are stuffing our bodies full of inflammatory food-like products that make a person sick, fat and depressed. The key to fat loss, optimal health and joy is so simple, it’s easy to overlook.

Eat whole foods that are plucked from the earth. Foods that do not come in a package, can, bag or jar, and automatically the inflammation will dissipate in your body, freeing up space for your liver to begin processing fat. The best part, you can eat all you want, as long as it’s clean whole foods.

No longer is a deprivation mentality of dieting or extreme exercising required. By pivoting our thinking, we can create a healthy relationship with food. One that creates a foundation of values based on fueling the body, and giving it health through whole foods, rather than limiting the amount of calories a person eats.

To help you with this clean eating journey, I have compiled a list of the top 6 inflammatory foods along with substitutes that allow you to eat many of the foods you enjoy, but with ingredients that give you health, rather than take it away.

1. Processed Sugar

Swap out processed sugars for raw honey, organic maple syrup, liquid stevia or fruit.

2. Sodium

talking-sodium

Photo:healthunit.com

Swap out table salt for sea salt or pink Himalayan salt. By eliminating processed and packaged foods, you will significantly eliminate the amount of daily sodium intake.

3. Wheat Flour

Swap out wheat for almond flour or coconut flour. While these two flours do come in a bag (unless you make them on your own with a food processor), they are minimally processed are a great substitute for baking many foods that typically contain wheat.

4. Certain Oils

Swap out highly processed oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, safflower oil, partially hydrogenated oil (just to mention a few) for high-quality omega-6 and omega-3 oils. The best source for oils are from extra-virgin coconut oil, extra-virgin olive oil, hemp seeds, chia seeds, avocados or avocado oils.

5. Cow Dairy

Swap out cow dairy for that of sheep or goat. Around the age of 1.5-2 years, our bodies significantly decrease in the amount of digestive enzymes created that specifically help to digest dairy. The molecular make-up of the sheep and goat dairy is more easily digested in the human body. Another reason cow dairy does not work as well is because the feed is typically made up from genetically modified corn and soy which creates inflammation in the cows. This is then passed on to us when we eat cow dairy. Last, casein is used in much dairy and many people are highly sensitive to it. When shopping for sheep and goat dairy, read the ingredients so that you can chose a dairy product free of casein.

6. Alcohol

Swap out alcohol for water, bubbly water, Kombucha drinks (without added sugar), tea or cold pressed juices. Alcohol tops the list of most inflammatory and toxic foods, and with a pause from the holidays, it seems like a reasonable time to take a break in order to regain and experience the most optimal and vibrant health.

Source: mindbodygreen.com

10 Fun Ways To Eat Chia Seeds!

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p10608222 Photo:chiaseedspot.com

Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients. They’re loaded with protein, Omega 3s, and fiber. Plus they’re packed with calcium, magnesium and manganese. They are also gluten-free!

Here are 10 fun ways to eat chia seeds:

1. Chia pudding with kiwi fruit and pomegranate seeds

chia-pudding Photo:jennymcelvaney.wordpress.com

  • Place 3 tablespoons of chia seed in a mason jar and pour over 12 ounces of almond milk.
  • Shake the jar until the chia seeds are fully immersed in the liquid. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
  • Once seeds have swelled to a tapioca consistency, stir in 1 tsp of coconut sugar.
  • Pour into a serving bowl and top with chopped kiwi fruit and pomegranate seeds.

2. Raspberry-coconut chia pops

17795754 Photo:cellophaneland.com

  • Place 3 tablespoons of chia seed in a mason jar and pour over 12 ounces of coconut milk (from a can).
  • Shake the jar until the chia seeds are fully immersed in the liquid. Add 1 tablespoon of coconut sugar and 3/4 cup of raspberries. Stir well.
  • Let chia pudding set for 2 hours then pour into ice-pop molds and freeze overnight.

3. Chocolate-chia mousse

chia-cherry-choc-pudding Photo:beyondfitrecipes.wordpress.com

  • Pour 1 can of coconut cream into a blender, add 1/4 cup of chia seeds, 1/4 cup of maple syrup and 1/2 cup of cacao powder.
  • Let it sit it blender for 10 minutes to allow chia seed to swell to 10 times their size.
  • Once it has formed a tapioca consistency, puree it for 30 seconds or until smooth.
  • Pour into serving cups and let it set for 4 hours.
  • Top with fresh cherries.

4. Raspberry lemonade chia drink

P1220329-1400x1050 Photo:rosepetalsandribbons.com

Add the following to a pitcher:

  • 2 cups of coconut water
  • Juice 1/2 lemon
  • 3/4 cup of blended raspberries
  • 2 teaspoons of coconut sugar
  • 3 tablespoons of chia seed

Let it sit for 30 minutes until it has formed a gel-like consistency. Enjoy the drink!

5. Raw cherry and chia bars

Date-Cherry-Ginger-Orange-Coconut-Bars…with-Cacao-Chia Photo:onegreenplanet.org

In a food processor, add the following:

  • 1 cup of raw pecans
  • 1/2 cup of dried cherries
  • 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
  • 1/3 cup of almond butter
  • 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup of shredded coconut

Grind until a paste is formed, about 2 minutes. Add mixture to a baking try and place in the refrigerator for 2 hours. Slice into bars and serve.

6. Seeded granola with dried apricots

GranolaBars2 Photo:caramelizedsarcasm.com

In a food processor, add the following:

  • 1/2 cup of raw pumpkin seeds
  • 1/2 cup of raw sunflower seeds
  • 2 tablespoons of chia seeds

Pulse until seeds are in a chunky texture. Then add the following ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup of shredded coconut
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup and salt.

Pulse for another 20 seconds. Spread mixture out on to a baking dish.

Add to pre-heated oven at 300F for about 20 minutes, stirring half-way through to avoid burning. You could also use a dehydrator set to 118F for 4 to 5 hours. Allow the toasted granola to cool completely, then stir in the chopped dried apricots and store in an airtight container. Serve with almond milk.

7. Lemon and mango chia parfait

rbk-chia-foods-yogurt-parfait-cococnut-mango-vg-1-4 Photo:redbookmag.com

  • Place 3 tablespoons of ground white chia seed in a mason jar and pour over a can of coconut milk.
  • Add a pinch of vanilla bean, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 3 tablespoons of maple syrup.
  • Let it sit for 30 minutes or overnight until thick.
  • Pour into serving glasses then top with freshly sliced mango.

8. Avocado on toast with chia seed.

AvocadoToastFromLPQ-850x638 Photo:fitlife.tv

Top gluten-free toast with avocado dusted in chia seeds, lemon zest, chili flakes and sea salt.

9. Cacao, chia cherry ice-cream

frozen-whipped-chocolate-bananas Photo:loseweightandgainhealth.com

Add the following to a blender:

  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1.5 cans of coconut cream
  • 2 tablespoons of cacao powder
  • 3 tablespoons of maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 ounce melted unsweetened chocolate
  • 4 pitted dates

Let it sit for 15 minutes then blend for 60 seconds or until smooth. The mixture should be thick and creamy. Transfer the mixture to an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturers instructions. Freeze until firm enough to scoop.

10. Matcha chia smoothie

matcha-chip-smoothie Photo:pseudourban.com

  • Blend 12 ounces of almond milk with 1 teaspoon of matcha green tea powder, 2 pitted dates, 2 cardamon pods and a pinch of vanilla bean for 30 seconds.
  • Pour into a large mason jar.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of chia seed and shake it well.
  • Let it sit for at least 15 minutes until chia seeds starts to swell. Serve over ice.

Source: mindbodygreen.com

40 Home Remedies for Reducing High Cholesterol

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Source: homeremedyshop.com

Cholesterol is a greasy substance present in the blood that is required for building healthy cells and maintaining cell membranes. It is basically produced by the human body but can also be taken from food. It also helps convert the sunlight into vitamin D. However, having high cholesterol can increase the risk of heart diseases.

Hypercholesterolemia or high cholesterol increases the risk of coronary heart disease that causes heart attacks. Diet, exercise and weight are the three main factors that can affect cholesterol levels. It starts to rise after the age of 20. So, keep an eye on your weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, in order to stay away from diseases.

Home Remedies for Dipping High Cholesterol Levels

1. Nuts

Nuts are loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats, proteins, fiber, nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants. One should include a handful of nuts in daily diet. Peanuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, pecans, and other nuts reduce blood cholesterol. Studies have revealed that eating a quarter cup of almonds a day can lower LDL by 4.4 percent. Moreover, you can consume some roasted almonds without oil. Walnuts contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Chomp them to lower your LDL by 16 percent.

Note – All nuts are high in calories, so avoid overeating.

 

2. Oatmeal

Oats are considered as traditional cholesterol buster. It is packed with soluble fiber and contains beta-glucans that helps reduce the absorption of cholesterol and lower down its level naturally. You can drop your LDL by 12-24%, if you eat 1½ cups of oatmeal regularly.

 

3. Onions

Grind an onion in a juicer. Add one teaspoon of honey in a teaspoon of onion juice.  Alternatively, take one cup of buttermilk and mix one finely chopped onion along with one-quarter teaspoon of pepper in it. Consume it on daily basis.

 

4. Orange Juice

Orange juice is a rich source of vitamin C, flavonoids and folate. Drinking 3 cups of fresh orange juice regularly can help you reduce blood cholesterol levels.

 

5. Coriander Seeds

Studies have shown that coriander can lower the levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides. The seeds of coriander have hypoglycemic effects that are also beneficial for diabetic patients. Take one cup of water and add 2 teaspoons of coriander seed powder to it. Boil this solution for a few seconds, and then, strain. Add some milk, sugar, and cardamom for taste. Drink it twice a day.

 

6. Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been used to lower the cholesterol levels. It contains monacolins, isoflavones, sterols, and monounsaturated fatty acids. For lowering the high cholesterol level, consume 1200 to 2400 mg of the supplement once or twice a day.

Note – It should be used under a physician’s direction.

 

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar helps lower your triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. It is a very effective remedy for curing a number of ailments. Mix 1 teaspoon of organic apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it 2 – 3 times a day for at least a month.

  • Moreover, if you don’t like its taste, you can mix some fresh orange juice, grape juice, apple juice or any of your favorite juice with apple cider vinegar.

 

8. Fish Oil

bodyreadyomega2

Fish oils and fatty fish such as tuna, mackerel, trout, salmon, herring, bluefish and sardines are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. They lower triglycerides and prevent heart ailments. Consume around 1-4 gram of fish oil daily.

Moreover, eat at least 2 servings of fish once in a week, most probably fatty fish, as they are the richest source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Alternatively, if you are a vegetarian, then include ground flaxseeds which are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

 

9. Honey

Honey is loaded with a number of minerals and vitamins which makes it an ultimate cholesterol fighter. Besides, the antioxidants present in honey do not let the cholesterol move out of the blood and also prevents its entry into the lining of the blood vessels.

  • Add 1 teaspoon of honey to 1 cup of hot water. You can also add one teaspoon of lemon juice or 10 drops of apple cider vinegar to this solution. Drink it in the morning. This may reduce excess fat from your system and maintain cholesterol level.
  • Alternatively, take a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and mix it in a cup of boiling water. Cover it for 30 minutes. Afterwards, strain this solution and add one teaspoon of honey to this concoction. Drink it on an empty stomach half an hour before your breakfast.

 

10. Soybeans

Soybeans are well-off in magnesium, phosphorus, protein, calcium, B complex vitamins, and iron. It contains 10 times more calcium than meat. Eating soya nuts, soybeans and other food products made from soy (tofu and soy milk) are the modest way to reduce the production of new cholesterol. It is recommended that consuming 25 grams of soya protein in a day can lower the high cholesterol by 5-6 percent.

Note – Some people may face digestion problems when they eat soya. They may perceive loose stools, stomach ache, or diarrhea. So consult a nutritionist before including this smart food into your diet.

 

11. Indian Gooseberry

Indian gooseberry has high vitamin C content and abundance of minerals that can deal with a number of ailments. It is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the heart muscles by reducing excess cholesterol build-up, thus, keeps the arteries and blood vessels clean. Add 1 teaspoon powder of Indian gooseberry in a glass of warm water. Drink it in the morning on an empty stomach.

 

12. Garlic

The high nutritional value and unique taste of garlic has made it a kitchen staple. It plays an important role in treating several diseases, apart from adding up an appetizing savor to food. The anti-clotting properties and sulfur contents of garlic balances the cholesterol level and reduce the formation of plaque in blood vessels and prevents clots that can cause heart stroke. Grate freshly peeled raw garlic onto your salad dressings, dal, rasam, pizza, or soups.

  • Alternatively, consume 2 – 4 cloves of garlic with water every day.

 

13. Brown Rice

Brown rice is affluent in lots of minerals, fiber and vitamins. If you want to lower your cholesterol level, then replace white rice with brown rice, as its  bran contain highly saturated oil which plays a vital role in balancing the cholesterol levels. One cup of brown rice provides 11 percent fiber.

 

14. Turmeric

Turmeric holds excellent wound healing properties. It also lowers the levels of LDL cholesterol; hence, it can cut down the build-up of plaque on the walls of the arteries. This may lower the blood cholesterol.

  • Adding a dash of turmeric powder to the curries and vegetable while cooking is one of the best ways to get a daily dose of this powerful herb.
  • Alternatively, boil 1½ tablespoons of water and mix ¾ teaspoon turmeric and 2 tablespoons of cooked mashed eggplant in it. Now, spread this paste on whole wheat bread and eat after meals.

 

15. Brinjal (Eggplant)

Brinjal is a reasonable and easily accessible vegetable that contains ample amount of dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin B1 and B6, manganese, niacin, folate, copper and many more essential nutrients that maintain blood cholesterol levels. Eggplant also contains nasunin, a free radical scavenger that improves the blood flow by relaxing the walls of blood vessels. Incorporate brinjal in your diet to reduce the harmful LDL cholesterol from your body. It can be consumed in any form – stuffed, marinated, grilled, roasted, or fried.

  • Alternatively, you can have an eggplant juice for balancing your cholesterol levels.

Note:

  • People with gall bladder or kidney diseases should avoid eating brinjals, as they are rich in oxalates.
  • Those who have acidity problem should avoid its consumption.
  • If you have excessive bile humor, avoid eating it.
  • It should not be consumed during pregnancy.

 

16. Coconut Oil

Although, coconut oil is a saturated fat, it is considered one of the most beneficial and effective home remedies for high cholesterol. It contains lauric acid that increases HDL and improves the LDL/HDL ratio. While cooking, add moderate amount of organic coconut oil. Consume at least one to two tablespoons of this oil daily.

Note – Do not use processed or refined coconut oil.

 

17. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds are rich in minerals like potassium, iron, calcium, selenium, manganese and zinc. They also contain good amount of vitamins B, A and C. The components, termed as steroidal saponins, present in fenugreek seeds reduce the absorption of cholesterol by the body that comes from fat-rich foods we eat. Take 2 ounces of fenugreek seeds daily to lower down the level of cholesterol by 14 percent. Besides, it reduces the risk of heart attack by 25%.

  • Alternatively, these seeds can be taken in powered form along with water.
  • The leaves of fenugreek can be added to salad to enhance the mineral intake.
  • Add these seeds to various recipes as a spice, or as an herb by adding its leaves.

Note:

  • The seeds of fenugreek have a strong bitter taste. So, be cautious on its quantity. In order to remove the bitterness, soak the seeds overnight.
  • However, fenugreek leaves are not bitter and can be used in large quantity. They render a very pleasing aroma and taste to food.

 

18. Beans

Beans are packed with cholesterol lowering soluble fiber. Hence, they bring down the LDL level and help keep your heart healthy. There are several types of beans, such as kidney, pinto, navy, chickpea, black, or butter beans. Eat, regularly, a cup of your favorite bean for 6 weeks, so as to decrease the cholesterol by 10%.

 

19. Avocados 

Even though avocados do not have any dietary cholesterol, they directly affect the cholesterol levels. This creamy fruit is filled with several nutritious qualities and contains significant amount of fiber and good fats such as oleic acid, healthy monounsaturated fat that lowers the unhealthy cholesterol level and boosts up the HDL (good cholesterol). It can be added to a variety of dishes. You can mix it into guacamole, slice it in salad or top a sandwich. Alternatively, make a fine avocado dip.

Note – Being high in calories and fat (30 grams fat and 300 calories per avocado), avocados should be used moderately.

 

20. Olive Oil

Olive oil is enriched with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can cut down the LDL cholesterol without affecting the HDL. Consume at least 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a day. You can also sauté or roast the vegetables in this oil.

  • Alternatively, use it in salad dressings or for marinating chicken and fish.
  • Moreover, use olive oil as an alternative for butter while basting meat, or can be used as a dip for bread.

Note – Olive oil contains lot of calories, so don’t consume more than the recommended quantity.

 

21. Apples

Apple is rich in pectin and contains natural antioxidants known as flavonoids in their skin that lower cholesterol level and keep your lungs healthy.  One medium sized apple contains vitamin A and C, around four grams of fiber and less than 100 calories. So, enjoy this healthy fruit.

  • Fruits like pear, oranges, grapefruit, berries, and pomegranate also decrease the cholesterol levels in the blood because of their high fiber content.

Note – If possible, consume fruits with their skin, as it contains additional fiber.

 

22. Celery

The high antioxidant content of celery lowers the risk of heart disease, as it prevents oxidation of LDL cholesterol. A component present in celery, called butylphthalide, balances the cholesterol level. You can include it in salads, vegetable juice, soups and any other dish.

  • Or else, have a juice made of celery leaves.
  • Instead of potato chips, fill your lunch box with celery sticks. Chomping  2 stalks of celery, every day, can lower the LDL by 7 points.

 

23. Mustard Greens

Mustard greens have anti-inflammatory properties, and are also abundant in sulforaphane, calcium, fiber, and vitamin C that regulate the blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These are low in sodium, hence, reduce the LDL. Consume half cup of mustard greens, in a day, to lower down the cholesterol level by 15 percent.

 

24. Broccoli

Besides possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, broccoli has a variety of nutrients such as calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, and vitamin C. The fiber in broccoli combines with the bile acids in the digestive tract and excretes it out from the body. This way, it drops the blood cholesterol level.So, make it a part of your diet by including it in soups and salads.

Note:

  • Don’t overcook it; otherwise, all its important nutrients will fade away.
  • Raw broccoli is less beneficial than steamed one.

 

25. Chocolate

Chocolate is a powerful antioxidant that maintains the HDL cholesterol levels. The cocoa flavanols and plant sterols found in dark non-milk chocolate can reduce the LDL cholesterol by 2-5%. The flavonoids in chocolates prevent blood platelets from sticking together and keep the arteries unclogged. Eat about an ounce of chocolate in a day to boost up the good cholesterol and prevent the bad cholesterol from oxidizing.

Note – Choose a chocolate that has bittersweet taste or dark one. Milk chocolate has no flavonoids.

 

26. Red Wine

Alcohol can lift up the HDL cholesterol level by 5-15 percent. Red wine is advantageous in lowering cholesterol level because of its polyphenol antioxidants. It is recommended that women should drink a 5-ounce glass of wine, in a day, while men can drink up to two glasses. If you don’t prefer to take alcohol, then substitute it with grape juice. It provides equal benefits.

 

27. Barley

It is the most nutritious cereal that helps lower the blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels and normalize the blood sugar levels.  A fiber called beta-glucan, present in barley reduces the cholesterol levels by 4 to 10 percent, depending on its consumption. It is an excellent substitute for wheat. Consume this healthy food in the form of chapattis and noodles.

 

28. Tomatoes 

Tomatoes are an important source of lycopene, an antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color. Daily consumption of lycopene lowers the level of LDL cholesterol. Simply munch on raw tomatoes or sip tomato juice.

Note – Cooking tomatoes with some oil helps your body to absorb more lycopene.

 

29. Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds have abundant lignans that decrease blood cholesterol, promote a healthy digestive tract, and keeps the heart problems at bay. It is loaded with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which checks the production and absorption of cholesterol. Simply take flaxseeds with water to lower the LDL level.

 

30. Spinach

Spinach contains plenty of lutein that prevents the cholesterol from getting attached to the arterial walls and protects arteries from clogging. Vitamin E present in it checks the formation of plaque, hence, reduces the risk of heart stroke.

  • Alternatively, you can consume baby spinach leaves for a small meal. Just microwave them for 3 minutes. Add some Parmesan. Eat it with a whole wheat bread. It is a healthy snack that lowers your cholesterol level.

 

31. Yogurt

Regular consumption of one cup plain yogurt with active cultures can reduce your LDL (bad cholesterol) by 4 percent. Apart from this, it reduces the overall risk of heart ailments by 10 percent

 

32. Beets

Beets are loaded with carotenoids and flavonoids, which checks the build-up of LDL, and raises healthy cholesterol levels in the body. It also contains several essential nutrients – fiber, vitamin C, folate, manganese and potassium that heal various ailments.  Have beetroot juice or combine it with some other fresh fruit juice.

Note:

  • Drinking beet juice in abundance can cause temporary discoloration of the stool and urine.
  • Beets have plenty of oxalates which can crystallize, and cause stone problems.
  • The beetroot juice can stain hands and countertops, so use gloves while preparing it.

Herbal Remedies for Lowering High Cholesterol

 

33. Green Tea

Green tea is full of antioxidant compounds that can lower the cholesterol level as these compounds help the blood protect the LDL cholesterol particles from oxidation. Hence, it prevents the blood clot and relaxes the blood vessels. A single cup of green tea has more antioxidants than any other vegetable or fruit.  So, enjoy at least 3 cups of green tea every day.

 

34. Licorice Root

5 to 15 grams of licorice extract, three times a day, is recommended for lowering the high cholesterol levels. You can sip licorice tea. Boil 150 ml milk/water in a pan, then add 1 teaspoon licorice root. Lower the heat and allow it to brew for 5 minutes. Don’t add sugar/honey, as licorice itself is 50% sweeter than sugar. Filter this solution in a cup.

Note – People with high blood pressure, nerve problems, heart disease, hypokalemia (low potassium), kidney disease, erectile dysfunction, and pregnant women should not consume it.

 

35. Chicory Root

Chicory root is popularly known as an additive for coffee. Being a great source of vitamin C, beta-carotene and antioxidants, this root wondrously balances the cholesterol level and prevents cardiovascular ailments. It regulates the natural metabolism of body’s cholesterol, thereby, checks the high production of LDL cholesterol. It can be used as coffee additive and substitute.

  • Alternatively, chicory leaves and buds can be added to salad and other foodstuffs.

Note – Avoid products with chicory during pregnancy.

 

36. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a cholesterol-buster herb that speeds up the metabolism and lowers the LDL cholesterol because of its high fiber content. Cook it in a double boiler. Add maple syrup or little honey as sweetener. You can also add cardamom or vanilla. It is better to consume this after a rich fat meal.

Note:

  • Don’t eat the leaves of Rhubarb, as they contain poisonous chemical called oxalic acid.
  • Cooking Rhubarb can increase the antioxidant capacity along with its polyphenol content.
  • Avoid it during pregnancy.

 

37. Artichoke

The leaves of artichoke plant contain a special type of compound, termed as cynarine, which increases the production of bile in the liver that results in rapid elimination of cholesterol from the body, hence, unclog the arterial walls. So, this veggie actually lowers blood cholesterol levels.

 

38. Hawthorn Berry

Hawthorn berry acts as a tonic for heart which nurtures the entire circulatory system, and thus, lowers the cholesterol levels. Its leaves, berries and flowers are used for curing heart problems. You should take it 3 times a day in any form – capsule, powder or tincture.

  • In order to make the tincture, soak 4 ounces of the berries in a pint of brandy for 2 weeks, and then strain.
  • Alternatively, you can have hawthorn tea. For preparing the tea, add 1-2 teaspoons of berries in hot water.

 

39. Margarine

Margarines are enriched with a substance called plant sterols that help lower the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol). Take it on a regular basis, for 3 weeks or more, to reduce the cholesterol level by 10 percent. Since margarines are made from plant oils, they contain zero cholesterol. It can be used in cooking and baking. You can also spread it on your bagel or toast.

Note – It reduces beta-carotene absorption. Hence, compensate this by eating lots of carrots, sweet red peppers, spinach and sweet potatoes.

 

40. Ginger

Ginger is an herb that not only adds flavor to your food, but also decreases the cholesterol levels. You can have ginger tea that prevents sore throats and controls cholesterol as well. Besides this, you can add it to your food while cooking.

These home remedies will check your LDL cholesterol to a great extent, but it is equally important to bring changes in your lifestyle for the best results.

Do’s

  • Eat a ‘heart-healthy diet’ and consume fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Sip a glass of red wine every evening with dinner.
  • Eat small meals in a day.

Don’ts

  • Avoid smoking.
  • Avoid foods containing high saturated fat.
  • Don’t consume butter, hard margarines, lard, fatty and processed meat, dairy fats.

What Can You Add To Your Water That Aid In Digestion And Promote Cleansing?

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Because water is so essential to the body and its processes, the benefits of drinking clean and sufficient water regularly are unbounded. In order to ensure that you are getting enough water, it is a good idea to carry a water bottle with you when you are on-the-go. Not only will this remind you to drink more water, but it will also give you an opportunity to have clean, filtered water at your fingertips no matter where you are.

I prefer to drink from a glass water bottle so that no chemicals from plastic water bottles leech into my water (namely Dioxin and BPA). Plastic water bottles are especially not good when left in a hot car/atmosphere. I know there are many different kinds of plastic, but I just decide to go glass to avoid any chemicals in plastic altogether. This Lifefactory water bottle is my favorite because it has the silicone sleeve and is easy to carry around. I also prefer to drink fluoride-free water and do so by using my Clearly Filtered water pitcher. Although fluoride is said to help with tooth decay, it is toxic and we may receive too much of it, which may cause problems for our body (specifically thyroid).

I’d also like to note that I do not put all seven things from the list below in my water at one time. I guess you could, but it might taste a little funky. I usually just do 1-3 things depending on what I have or what I think would go good together. I like putting lemon juice and apple cider vinegar (sometimes with ginger too), cloves and mint leaves, lime juice and cucumber, or lemon juice and cinnamon together.

1. Freshly-Squeezed Lemon or Lime Juice

Lemons and limes are a good source of Vitamin C, which is a very important antioxidant because it helps neutralize free radicals in the body. Lemons and limes are also good for alkalizing and cleansing the body as well as aiding in digestion because their make up is very similar to our own digestive enzymes. I like to squeeze about a half of a lemon or lime in my water bottle.

 

2. Fresh Mint Leaves

I have a spearmint plant out in the backyard that is growing like crazy so I started adding them to my water bottle. Mint leaves can also be grown inside as well in a pot by the windowsill. Mint improves the flow of bile and can help with activating salivary glands and digestive enzymes that help absorb the nutrients from your food. It is also a calming and soothing herb that can be used to settle an upset stomach.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Over the summer, I was living on Mackinac Island and got a cold. I didn’t have any natural remedies with me so I looked for some natural foods to help me feel better. I headed to the tiny market and found some Bragg’s ACV. I’ve read about many health benefits of consuming ACV and started adding a couple tablespoons to my water. I liked it so much that I started adding it to the water bottle that I took to work almost everyday! Even though it is normally bitter, it started tasting almost sweet in time, and I even craved it periodically as I kept drinking it.

I still love regularly adding it to my water because it is said to help with eliminating toxins and killing bacteria, maintaining a healthy weight, and improving digestion overall. And just like lemons and limes, ACV can also help balance the PH in your body. I like to get the unfiltered, organic ACV with the ‘mother’; a great one is made by Bragg’s.

4. Cloves

In addition to stimulating digestion, cloves can also be used for ailments of the digestive system and are thought to have anti-parasitic properties. I place about 3-5 whole cloves in my water and let them sit in there to flavor the water. When I’m finished with the water, I just eat the cloves because they have many healing properties (beware, they’re pretty hot!).

5. Ginger Root

Another one for stimulating the flow of digestive juices! Ginger is also another wonderful remedy for indigestion, cramps, nausea and gas that has been used traditionally as a medicine for thousands of years. It is an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral root that boosts circulation and may also kill cancer cells! I dice up about a thumb-sized amount of ginger and add it to my water. Like the cloves, I eat it at the end, but it is also very hot!

6. Cucumber Slices

Cucumbers add a nice fresh taste to your water, and can be eaten while drinking the water (because they float!) to help eliminate toxins from the digestive system and continue to hydrate the body. They not only contain antioxidants and fiber, but they may also help with the production of insulin in the pancreas. I like to cut the slices into quarters so I can eat them easily as I am drinking my water.

7. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another traditional herb that also anti-fungal and anti-viral and is used to relieve indigestion. It may also help with circulation, metabolizing fats during digestion, and regulating blood-glucose levels by slowing the time it takes for food to go from the stomach to the small intestine. Place a small amount of a cinnamon stick in your water and let it flavor the water just like you would with the cloves.

 

 

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