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12 Foods That Increase Magnesium and Prevent High Blood Pressure, Blood Clots and Muscle Fatigue

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Most people do not know about magnesium or how important the mineral can be for our health. You need to understand that Magnesium is involved with over 300 metabolic processes in the body, which has lead to the mineral being called the “master mineral”.  So do you know how to spot a magnesium deficiency, and what the symptoms are? Keep reading!

What Does Magnesium Do?

Magnesium is important because it’s a mineral used by every organ in your body, especially your heart, muscles, and kidneys. If you suffer from unexplained fatigue or weakness, abnormal heart rhythms or even muscle spasms and eye twitches, low levels of magnesium could be to blame.

Because Magnesium is also found in more than 300 different enzymes in the body and plays a role in your body’s detoxification processes, it is important for helping to prevent damage from environmental chemicals, heavy metals, and other toxins. It is also necessary for:

  • Proper transportation of calcium, silica, vitamin D, vitamin K, and obviously magnesium.
  • Activating muscles and nerves
  • Creating energy in the body
  • Detoxification
  • Helping digest proteins, carbohydrates, and fats
  • Serves as building blocks for RNA and DNA synthesis
  • Acting as a precursor for neurotransmitters like serotonin

Why Is Magnesium So Hard To Come By?

Thanks to modern farming methods that use chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides that are absorbed into the soil, out topsoil has been heavily depleted of its mineral content. This mineral is now missing from most of our topsoil.

By some estimates, up to 80% of Americans are not getting enough magnesium and may be deficient. Other research shows only about 25% of US adults are getting the recommended daily amount of 310 to 320 milligrams (mg) for women and 400 to 420 for men. What is even more concerning is that consuming just this amount is only enough to ward off deficiency.

Organic foods may have more magnesium if grown in nutrient-rich soils but it is very difficult to make that determination. If you opt for a supplement, be aware that there are a wide variety of magnesium supplements on the market, because magnesium must be bound to another substance, is there’s no such thing as a 100% magnesium supplement.

The substance used can affect the absorption and bioavailability of the magnesium, and may provide more targeted health benefits. Magnesium threonate and citrate are some of the best sources, as it seems to penetrate cell membranes which results in higher energy levels.

Besides taking a supplement, another way to improve your magnesium status is to take regular Epsom salt baths or foot baths. Epsom salt is a magnesium sulfate that can absorb into your body through your skin. Magnesium oil can also be used for topical application and absorption.

Whatever supplement you choose, be sure to avoid any containing magnesium stearate, which is a common but potentially hazardous additive.

One good thing to remember is that it’s almost impossible to overdose magnesium, but consuming too much magnesium is still not a good idea. Too much of the mineral could lead to some side effects like irregular heartbeat or slowed breathing. Similar to oral ascorbic acid C, there is a bowel tolerance threshold that brings on diarrhea if exceeded.

How To Tell If You’re Getting Enough Magnesium

The best way to tell if you are getting enough magnesium is the “bowel test”. Like I mentioned above, if you have too much magnesium your stools become loose. However, this may be a blessing for people with constipation which is one of the many ways magnesium deficiency manifests.

Signs of a Magnesium Deficiency

This anti-inflammatory mineral offers protection against illnesses like arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease, magnesium has been used to aid problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, respiratory issues, and much more.

While observing bodily signs can help you tell if you have a deficiency, you may want to have some tests administered. If you’ve recently had a blood test, you might assume it would show a magnesium deficiency. But only 1% of magnesium in your body is distributed in your blood, making a simple sample of magnesium from a serum magnesium blood test not very helpful.

This is because magnesium operates on a cellular level and accumulates in organ and nerve tissue, so even good results with blood testing are very often deceptive. Here are some telltale signs:

  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Asthma
  • Bowel Diseases
  • Blood Clots
  • Calcium Deficiency
  • Cystitis
  • Confusion
  • Constipation
  • Difficulty Swallowing
  • Depression
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue/Weakness
  • High Blood Pressure/Heart Disease
  • Hypertension
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Insomnia
  • Liver & Kidney Disease
  • Migraine
  • Muscle Cramps
  • Nausea
  • Nerve Problems/Tremors
  • Osteoporosis
  • Personality Changes
  • PMS, Infertility & Preeclampsia)
  • Poor Heart Health
  • Poor Memory
  • Potassium Deficiency
  • Respiratory Issues
  • Raynaud’s Syndrome
  • Seizures
  • Tooth Decay
  • Type II Diabetes

How To Get More Magnesium

You can find inexpensive products that feature magnesium citrate, which is among the most readily absorbed forms of magnesium supplements.

You can also apply transdermal magnesium chloride topically to be absorbed internally through the skin. Magnesium chloride is also known as magnesium oil, though not really an oil, more of a briny solution from ancient sea beds. It is available through various online sources, so just Google magnesium oil products to locate some.

If you don’t want to supplement and simply want to acquire magnesium through food sources, here are some of the top foods that can relieve you of any magnesium deficiency symptoms:

  • Almonds & Cashews (other nuts)
  • Avocados
  • Bananas
  • Beans & Lentils (Kidney, Soy & Black Beans)
  • Dark Chocolate
  • Dried Fruit (Figs)
  • Okra
  • Pumpkin, Sesame & Sunflower Seeds
  • Soybeans
  • Spinach (Dark Leafy Greens)
  • Squash
  • Whole Grains (Brown Rice)

How To Stop A Migraine Instantly With Salt

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Photo:elementsforlife.co.uk

People that suffer from Migraine are often anxious to get rid of the terrible and annoying pain characterizing this condition. There is a common thinking that a migraine is not a big deal, but a really bad migraine can pretty much handicap and take you down for the rest of the day. In worst cases, there are some migraines that can’t be defeated with your usual pain killers. So, here is the best thing to you use in those cases! Salt.

How to get rid of the Migraine Instantly with Salt?

Having quite a past with migraines i have literally used everything i could find to stop them.  Migraines are the types of things that can simply ruin your life for the rest of the day. However, searching and trying all kind of stuff eventually, I did find a method that worked for me!  I am very happy and relieved and plus It wasn’t something from the conventional medicine.
Also, this method is very easy.

If you want to relieve migraines make sure that you use high quality salt for example the Himalayan crystal salt. That is the most complete salt in the world. Containing 84 minerals, elements and electrolytes – makes it so fascinating if we take in consideration that there are only 118 elements known to science until today. This salt will reduce the severity of your migraine headaches, it will strengthen your immune system, increase your energy levels, and balance the serotonin levels in your bloodstream, it will restore the body’s electrolyte and alkaline balance and much much more.

Simply pour lemon juice in a glass, add one teaspoon Himalayan crystal salt in it and Enjoy! If you want, you can try with a small amount: by squeezing only half a lemon first and adding 1/2 teaspoon of this salt. You will feel like magic!

Super Foods For Eye Health & Protection

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Photo:hawthorne-eyedoctors.com

Did you know that a healthy diet, rich in certain kinds of nutrients, also play an important role in improving our eye health and preventing disease?

Incorporate the following 6 eye-friendly foods into your meals and see the difference for yourself!

ALMONDS

Almonds – and indeed, many different types of nuts – are rich in vitamin E, which, as we have seen, has been proven to slow macular degeneration and protect your eyes against the formation of cataracts.

Simply indulge in a handful of almonds a day to obtain roughly half of your daily recommended dose, and supplement with berries and other vitamin E rich foods for good, all round health.

CARROTS

While carrots and other orange-pigmented produce such as pumpkin, sweet potato and mango aren’t miracle workers and won’t reverse bad eyesight, they can certainly help improve general eye health.

Indeed, these fruits and vegetables contain lutein, the nutritional powerhouse contained amongst others in egg yolks and leafy greens, and beta-carotene, a substance that is converted into vitamin A by the body once it is absorbed. As we’ve seen, vitamin A is extremely beneficial to eye health, so be sure to include various different sources of it in your diet for optimal effect.

BERRIES

Berries  – especially blueberries – are considered one of the healthiest foods for your eyes, owing to their high quantities of vitamins A, C and E, and zinc.

Let’s break it down: vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that prevents inflammation in the eyes while combating free radicals; vitamin C acts against intraocular pressure (the pressure within your eye), which if left unchecked can increase the potential for the development of glaucoma, the second most common cause of blindness in the United States; vitamin E may help prevent the formation of cataracts, while zinc is a powerful mineral that helps protect against night blindness and – you guessed it – macular degeneration.

All in all, the humble blueberry is a nutritional powerhouse that does your eyes a world of good!Citrus fruit are another ally in your fight against eye disease, as they also contain a high concentration of vitamin C. Be sure to include different kinds of berries and citrus fruits in your regular rotation in order to reap all the benefits.

SALMON/FATTY FISH

Salmon, mackerel, tuna and anchovies are not only delicious; they are also rich in the omega-3 fatty acid DHA, which is found in our retinas and is instrumental in preventing dry eye syndrome, as well as dramatically decreasing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Two to four servings of these incredible fatty fish should be enough to ensure all round eye health; however, if you don’t eat seafood, you can get a good supply of DHA either through fish oil supplements, or by taking taking vegetarian supplements containing flaxseed oil or blackcurrant seed oil.

SPINACH/LEAFY GREENS

Whatever you do, don’t forget to eat your greens! Dark, leafy greens such as cooked spinach and kale, collards and turnip greens all contain extremely high amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, which have been proven to reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Although the compounds found in mixed greens aren’t as easily absorbed as those found in egg yolks, these vegetables are a great option for getting the antioxidants your eyes need for better health.

Don’t forget to cook the greens in good quality olive oil or coconut oil to reap the full benefits!

EGG YOLKS

galette-egg-yolkPhoto:kitchenplatter.com

If you regularly discard egg yolks because you believe they have an adverse effect on your cholesterol levels, think again: according to Paul Dougherty, medical director of Dougherty Laser Vision in Los Angeles, the yolk is in fact a prime source of lutein, a yellow-pigmented antioxidant that acts as a blue-light filter and combats free radicals in tandem with its sister compound, zeaxanthin.

Combined with the zinc also present in egg yolks, these two compounds can help slow down age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss for people over 65 years old.

The best way to eat them? Raw! If you don’t have the stomach for it, don’t worry: while it’s true that uncooked egg yolks contain more lutein than cooked yolks, our bodies are perfectly able to absorb the antioxidant from other sources, such as leafy greens, too. Simply combine these lutein-rich ingredients with olive or coconut oil for better absorption.

This remarkable breakthrough helps slow aging of the eye and maintain your freedom and independence as you get older.

 

The Best ANTI-Inflammatory Foods, Herbs, and Spices

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By Dr. Mercola

Herbs and cooking spices contain a wide variety of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, and help maximize the nutrient density of your meals. Every time you flavor your meals with herbs or spices you are literally “upgrading” your food without adding a single calorie.

In fact, on a per gram fresh weight basis, herbs rank even higher in antioxidant activity than fruits and vegetables, which are known to be high in antioxidants. Many studies have also shown that most spices tend to have unique medicinal qualities.

In the featured study, researchers from three Universities devised an experiment to evaluate the “true world” benefits of herbs and spices, by feeding them to people in quantities that are typically consumed simply by spicing up your meals. As noted by Dr. Michael Greger MD, who produced the video above:

“The researchers could have taken the easy route and just measured the change in antioxidant level in one’s bloodstream before and after consumption, but the assumption that the appearance of antioxidant activity in the blood is an indication of bioavailability has a weakness.

Maybe more gets absorbed than we think but doesn’t show up on antioxidant tests because it gets bound up to proteins or cells. So the researchers attempted to measure physiological changes in the blood.

They were interested in whether absorbed compounds would be able to protect white blood cells from an oxidative or inflammatory injury—whether herb and spice consumption would protect the strands of our DNA from breaking when attacked by free radicals.”

Four Spices That Pack a Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Punch

For one week, 10 to 12 subjects in each of 13 groups consumed a small amount of a particular spice each day. For example, those in the oregano group ate just half a teaspoon of oregano daily for seven days. Blood samples were drawn one hour prior to consumption, and at the very end of the experiment.

The participants’ blood was then analyzed for antioxidant capacity. The researchers also analyzed how well the blood could dampen an induced inflammatory response in white blood cells.

This was done by placing the participants’ blood onto white blood cells that had been damaged by oxidized cholesterol (commonly found in fried foods). Even at the “everyday” dosage amounts given, four spices were found to be significantly effective at quelling the inflammatory response:

1. Cloves

2. Ginger

3. Rosemary

4. Turmeric

As noted in the featured article: “[T]he results represents what might happen when cells in our body are exposed to the levels of spices that circulate in our bloodstream after normal daily consumption—not megadoses in some pill. Just the amount that makes our spaghetti sauce, pumpkin pie, or curry sauce taste good.”

Other Potent Anti-Inflammatory Spices

An earlier study published in the Journal of Medicinal Foods3 found a direct correlation between the antioxidant phenol content of spice and herb extracts and their ability to inhibit glycation and block the formation of AGE compounds (advanced glycation end products), making them potent preventers of heart disease and premature aging.

Here, cloves were ranked as the most potent of 24 common herbs and spices found in your spice rack. In all, the following were found to be the top 10 most potent anti-inflammatory herbs and spices:

1. Cloves

2. Cinnamon

3. Jamaican allspice

4. Apple pie spice mixture

5. Oregano

6. Pumpkin pie spice mixture

7. Marjoram

8. Sage

9. Thyme

10. Gourmet Italian spice

Inflammation Is at the Heart of Most Chronic Diseases

It’s important to realize that chronic inflammation is the source of many if not most diseases, including cancer, obesity, and heart disease, which essentially makes it the leading cause of death in the US.

While inflammation is a perfectly normal and beneficial process that occurs when your body’s white blood cells and chemicals protect you from foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, it leads to trouble when the inflammatory response gets out of hand. Your diet has a lot to do with this chain of events.

While among the most potent, ounce for ounce, herbs and spices are certainly not the only anti-inflammatory ingredients available. A number of foods are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and making sure you’re eating a wide variety of them on a regular basis can go a long way toward preventing chronic illness.

Top Seven Anti-Inflammatory Foods

The following foods and nutrients deserve special mention for their ability to quell inflammatory responses in your body:

1.  Animal-based omega-3 fat Animal-based omega-3 fats—found in fatty fish likewild Alaskan salmon and fish- or krill oil—help fight inflammation throughout your body. It’s particularly important for brain health. Research published in theScandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology4 in 2012 confirmed that dietary supplementation with krill oil effectively reduced inflammation and oxidative stress.
2.  Leafy greens Dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, collard greens and Swiss chard contain powerful antioxidants, flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamin C—all of which help protect against cellular damage. Ideally, opt for organic locally grown veggies that are in season, and consider eating a fair amount of them raw. Juicing is an excellent way to get more greens into your diet.
3.  Blueberries Blueberries rate very high in antioxidant capacity compared to other fruits and vegetables. They are also lower in sugar than many other fruits.
4.  Tea Matcha tea is the most nutrient-rich green tea and comes in the form of a stone-ground unfermented powder. The best Matcha comes from Japan and has up to 17 times the antioxidants of wild blueberries, and seven times more than dark chocolate.Tulsi is another tea loaded with anti-inflammatory antioxidants and other micronutrients that support immune function and heart health.
5.  Fermented vegetables and traditionally cultured foods Optimizing your gut flora is important for a well-functioning immune system, and helps ward off chronic inflammation. In fact, the majority of inflammatory diseases start in your gut, as the result of an imbalanced microbiome. Fermented foods such as kefir, natto, kimchee, miso, tempeh, pickles, sauerkraut, olives, and other fermented vegetables, will help ‘reseed’ your gut with beneficial bacteria.Fermented foods can also help your body rid itself of harmful toxins such as heavy metals and pesticidesthat promote inflammation.
6.  Shiitake mushrooms Shiitake mushrooms contain strong compounds with the natural ability to discourage inflammation, such as Ergothioneine, which inhibits oxidative stress.They also contain a number of unique nutrients that many do not get enough of in their diet. One is copper, which is one of the few metallic elements accompanied by amino and fatty acids that are essential to human health. Since your body can’t synthesize copper, your diet must supply it regularly. Copper deficiency can be a factor in the development of coronary heart disease.
7.  Garlic Garlic has been treasured for its medicinal properties for centuries. It’s also one of the most heavily researched plant foods around. Over 170 studies5show it benefitting more than 150 different conditions. Garlic exerts its benefits on multiple levels, offering anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and antioxidant properties.It’s thought that much of garlic’s therapeutic effect comes from its sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin. Research6 has revealed that as allicin digests in your body it produces sulfenic acid, a compound that reacts faster with dangerous free radicals than any other known compound.

Does Death Really Begin In The Colon? 80% Of Your Immune System Live Here…Take Control Today

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You are 90% bacteria.

Let that sink in for a second… Just think: for every cell in your body, you have 9 cells of bacteria living in and on your body. It can be a little creepy if you think about it too much.

Most of your bacteria is living inside your intestinal tract, otherwise known as your “gut.” The health of this organism is paramount to the health of your body. Why, you ask?

80% of your immune system spends most of its time around your gut. The health of your gut bacteria and the health of your immune system are vitally linked. When your gut bacteria is balanced, your immune system is also balanced. But when it’s out of balance, so is your immune system.

Signs that your immune system is out of balance are: food and seasonal allergies, chronic inflammation, chronic sinusitis, and colds and flus that linger for weeks.

Food sensitivities are a major sign and cause of an immune system imbalance. Food, specifically undigested protein, looks just like a virus or bacteria and our immune system creates an antibody to it. We see this in life-threatening reactions like anaphylactic shock to nuts or shellfish.

We can also have a much quieter, non-life threatening reaction to a food (undigested protein), which can over-stimulate our immune system and lead to seasonal allergies, eczema, and many inflammatory conditions.

These are usually referred to as food sensitivities. What I’ve seen over and over again in my practice is that once we discover the foods that you aren’t digesting properly you can gain control over allergies, eczema, and many inflammatory conditions.

Undigested protein gets into our blood stream through a “leaky gut.” This is when our intestinal tract is damaged and it allows undigested particles to be absorbed into the blood stream. These proteins can stimulate our immune system for up to 5 days.

This is why it’s so difficult to figure out our food sensitivities. Even a small amount of gluten, dairy, corn, or soy (our culture’s main food triggers) each week can cause our immune system to remain over-stimulated and we will feel our symptoms continuously… even if we’ve tried our best to reduce these possible triggers. 

The best way to balance our immune system is by having a healthy and strong digestive system, and this means our gut bacteria needs to be in balance. Our North American way of eating hasn’t helped to keep our gut bacteria balanced.

Most traditional cultures regularly consume fermented foods like natural yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, which feed the beneficial bacteria in our gut. In North America, however, we tend to do the opposite. Processed food, refined sugar, chlorine, and antibiotics are major causes of a gut bacteria imbalance.

When your gut is hosting 75% beneficial bacteria, your body (digestion, immunity, brain) is able to create balance. But when the prevalent bacteria in your gut is “bad” bacteria (bacteria that doesn’t assist us), they allow for an overgrowth of yeast, molds, and fungus – as well as many digestive symptoms, like bloating, foul-smelling gas, distention, pain, constipation, diarrhea, and a “leaky gut.”

How to Keep Your Gut Bacteria Balanced:

Eat whole, unrefined foods. Remove all refined sugars and grains which feed the “bad” bacteria.

Eat naturally fermented foods daily, and take a probiotic supplement. 

Probiotic supplements contain high amounts of beneficial bacteria and “seed” the gut – an important part of finding balance.

 Understand the causes of your digestive symptoms, and re-balance them. All digestive symptoms are signs that food isn’t being properly broken down and can feed the “bad” bacteria.

Keep your digestive system and immune system working optimally by keeping your gut bacteria healthy and happy!

You can start with this FREE BOTTLE OFFER: new probiotic has 9 Superior Strains and a Patented Delivery Method…THIS Gives You Maximum Digestive Relief All Day.

 

Do You Know What Will Happen If You Drink Coconut Water For 7 Days?

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These days coconut water is used all around the world, and you can find it in many markets easily and its detoxification power and other health benefits are unquestionable.

What happens when you drink this water?

The coconut water strengthens your immune system and removes bacteria that cause urinary tract infections, gonorrhea, gum diseases and viruses which cause cold, infection diseases and typhus.

Your energy will be boosted and the thyroid gland hormones production will be enhanced. The water acts as a natural diuretic and it is very helpful for people who have kidney diseases. It will assist in cleansing the urinary tract and the bladder channels. The toxins will be eliminated and the kidney stones will be braked down.

Photo: fertilityonline.net

The coconut water includes a high amount of fiber, which makes it very good for our digestive system. With regularly consummation the gastric acid will be eliminated.

Because of its low-level of fat, you can drink it in large amount. The coconut water will reduce your appetite and will keep you sated, which can lead to losing weight.

Photo: smartlife.com

Macerate a cotton ball in the coconut water and place it on the skin if you are having acne, oily or dry skin The water will make the skin cleaner and fresher, and the pores will be opened Mix this water with olive oil in order to cleans your organism and to eliminate bowel parasites.

The experts are saying that by drinking coconut water on a regular basis, you will be able to solve few health issues during pregnancy. With only one cup of coconut water, your electrolytes in your body will get balanced, imbalance of this can cause hypertension or also known as high blood pressure.

When people are over-drink through the night they often have a headache in the morning. So when you will drink more than you should, in the morning you may remember this magical drink. It will make the headache go away and will also expiate the lost fluids and help you to overcome the sickness caused from hangover.

If you like your skin to be ablaze and hydrated during the day, drink one cup of the coconut water. If you’ve lost too much energy with some exhausting physical activities, you can recover your energy with coconut water. This water will leave positive effects on every single body part.

Photo: wearandcheer.com

The coconut water will provide you stronger immune system, boost of energy, safety from bacteria and infections, weight loss and many other health benefits.

20 Reasons You Should Drink Lemon Water in the Morning.

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lemon-water

Adding lemon to water not only quenches thirst better than any other beverage, but it also nourishes our body with vitamins, minerals and trace elements which we absolutely need. Lemon with water can be considered the best natural energy booster. When we wake up in the morning, our bodily tissues are dehydrated and are in need of water to push out toxins and rejuvenate the cells. In other words, this homemade “lemonade” helps eliminate internal toxins, regulating proper kidney and digestive tract functions by forcing them to work as smoothly as possible.

Here are 20 reasons to drink lemon water in the morning:

1. Water with lemon provides the body with electrolytes which hydrate your body. As lemons contain good amount of electrolytes such as potassium, calcium and magnesium.

2. Water with lemon is good for the joints, reducing pain in the joints and muscles.

3. Warm water with lemon helps digestion as lemon contains citric acid. It interacts with other enzymes and acids which easily stimulate the secretion of gastric juice and digestion.

4. The liver produces more enzymes from water with lemon than from any other food.

5. Water with lemon cleanses the liver. Lemon juice stimulates the liver to release toxins.

6. Water with Lemon helps fight infections of the respiratory tract, sore throats and inflammation of the tonsils. This is due to the anti-inflammatory properties of lemon.

7. Warm water with lemon helps regulate natural bowel movement.

8. Water with lemon is indispensable for the normal work of metabolism. Since lemon is a powerful antioxidant, it protects the body from free radicals and strengthens the immune system.

9. Water with lemon aids in proper functioning of the nervous system (as lemon  has a high content of potassium). Depression and anxiety are often the result of low levels of potassium in the blood. The nervous system needs a sufficient amount of potassium to ensure sustainable signals to the heart.

10. Water with lemon cleanses blood, blood vessels and arteries.

11. Water with lemon can help lower blood pressure.  A daily intake of one lemon can reduce high blood pressure by 10%.

12. Water with lemon creates an alkalizing effect in the body. Even if you drink it immediately before a meal,  it can help your body maintain a higher level of pH. The higher the pH, the more your body is able to fight diseases.

13. Water with lemon is good for the skin. Vitamin C in lemon, improves our skin by rejuvenating the body.  Drinking water with lemon regularly (every morning) will improve the condition of your skin.

14. Water with lemon  helps to dilute uric acid, the built up of which leads to pain in the joints and gout.

15. Water with lemon is beneficial for pregnant women. Since lemons are loaded with Vitamin C, it acts as an adaptogen helping the body cope with viruses such as colds.  Furthermore, vitamin C helps the formation of bone tissue of the unborn baby. At the same time, due to the high content of potassium, a mixture of water with lemon helps forming cells of the brain and nervous system of the baby.

16. Water with lemon relieves heartburn. For this, mix a teaspoon of lemon juice in half a glass of water.

17. Water with lemon helps dissolve gallstones,  kidney stones, pancreatic stones, and calcium deposits.

18. Water with lemon helps with weight loss.  Lemons contain pectin fiber, which helps suppress hunger cravings. Studies have proven  people with a better alkaline diet have lost weight faster.

19. Water with lemon helps with tooth pain and gingivitis.

20. Water with lemon prevents cancer. This is due to the fact that lemons are a highly alkaline food. Multiple studies have found that cancer cannot thrive in an alkaline environment.

 How and when to drink water with lemon:

For this purpose, use warm purified or spring water. Take half a Cup of warm water without sugar and squeeze in there at least half of lemon or lime. Better to use a special juicer (to get the most juice with minimal effort). You can also use lemon essential oil.

You need to drink water with lemon first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Some recommend a drink of water one hour before meals for maximum results.

So, when life gives you a bunch of lemons, make water with lemons.

VIDEO: Top 5 Healthy Holiday Eating Tips

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Healthy Holiday Eating

Did you know that on average, we eat 600 more calories per day between Thanksgiving and the New Year? Staying healthy and fit during the holiday season can be challenging for everyone and staying on track can seem daunting. However, your sensible routine doesn’t need to be tossed out of the window until the New Year. With just these 5 simple tips and a little planning, you can indulge AND have a no-gain holiday season. Check out the video below and enjoy!

 

The 10 Healthiest Foods of All Time (With Recipes)

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grapefruit-2These are the foods you should be eating now.

Eating healthy shouldn’t be complicated. To make it simple, here are a list of the 10 healthiest foods you should be eating now.

Bon appetit!

1. Bananas

bananas

Why they’re good for you: While this tropical fruit is an American favorite, bananas are actually classified as an herb, and the correct name of a “bunch” of bananas is a “hand.” Technicalities aside, bananas are an excellent source of cardioprotective potassium. They’re an effective prebiotic, enhancing body’s ability to absorb calcium, and they increase dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin – brain chemicals that counter depression.

Serving size: medium banana

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 105
Fat: 0.4 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 1 mg
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Dietary fiber: 3 g
Sugars: 14 g
Protein: 1.3 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Citrusy Banana-Oat Smoothie

Banana Oat Smoothie
Photo: bellabeat.com

Ingredients
2/3 cup fresh orange juice
1/2 cup prepared quick-cooking oats
1/2 cup plain
2% reduced-fat Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon flaxseed meal
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon grated orange rind
1 large banana, sliced and frozen
1 cup ice cubes

Preparation
Combine first 7 ingredients in a blender; pulse to combine. Add ice; process until smooth.

2. Raspberries

raspberries
Photo: stuffpoint.com

Why they’re good for you: Raspberries come in gold, black and purple varieties, but red are the most common. Research suggests eating raspberries may help prevent illness by inhibiting abnormal division of cells, and promoting normal healthy cell death. Raspberries are also a rich source of the flavonoids quercetin and gallic acid, which have been shown to boost heart health and prevent obesity and age-related decline.

size: one cup of raspberries

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 64
Fat: 0.8 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 1 mg
Carbohydrates: 14.7 g
Dietary fiber: 8 g
Sugars: 5.4 g
Protein: 1.5 g

 

spinach-salad

Ingredients
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
5 cups mixed baby greens
1/2 cup raspberries
1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
1 ounce blue cheese

Preparation
Combine olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Add mixed baby greens; toss. Top with raspberries, pecans, and blue cheese.

 

3. Oranges

Why they’re good for you: Oranges are one of the most potent vitamin C sources and are essential for disarming free-radicals, protecting cells, and sustaining a healthy immune system. Oranges contain a powerful flavonoid molecule called herperidin found in the white pith and peel. In animal studies, herperidin has been shown to lower cholesterol and high blood pressure. So don’t peel all the pith from your orange. Consider adding zest from the skin into your oatmeal for a dose of flavor and health.

Serving size: one large orange

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 86
Fat: 0.2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 0 mg
Carbohydrates: 21.6 g
Dietary fiber: 4.4 g
Sugars: 17.2 g
Protein: 1.7 g

Photo: thebittenword.com

Recipe from Cooking Light: Avocado and Orange Salad
Ingredients
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 orange
1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 cup sliced avocado

Preparation
Combine garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. Peel and section orange; squeeze membranes to extract juice into bowl. Stir garlic mixture with a whisk. Add orange sections, grape tomatoes, onion, and avocado to garlic mixture; toss gently.

4. Kiwi

Why they’re good for you: Ounce for ounce, this fuzzy fruit—technically a berry—has more vitamin C than an orange. It also contains vitamin E and an array of polyphenols, offering a high amount of antioxidant protection. Fiber, potassium, magnesium and zinc—partly responsible for healthy hair, skin and nails—are also wrapped up in this nutritious fruit.

Serving size: one kiwi

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 42
Fat: 0.4 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 2 mg
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Dietary fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 6 g
Protein: 0.8 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Shrimp and Kiwi Salad
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
12 peeled and deveined large shrimp (about 3/4 pound)
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon grated lime rind
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups torn red leaf lettuce leaves
1 cup cubed peeled kiwifruit (about 3 kiwifruit)

Preparation
Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp; sauté 4 minutes or until done. Remove from heat.

Combine 2 teaspoons oil, onions, and next 7 ingredients (onions through black pepper) in a bowl. Add shrimp; toss to coat. Spoon mixture over lettuce; top with kiwi.

5. Pomegranates

Why they’re good for you: Pomegranates tend to have more vitamin C and potassium and fewer calories than other fruits. A serving provides nearly 50% of a day’s worth of vitamin C and powerful polyphenols, which may help reduce cancer risk.

Serving size: one cup of pomegranate seeds

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 144
Fat: 2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 5 mg
Carbohydrates: g
Dietary fiber: 7 g
Sugars: 23.8 g
Protein: 3 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Pomegranate and Pear Jam
Ingredients
2 cups sugar
2 cups chopped, peeled Seckel (or other) pear
2/3 cup strained fresh pomegranate juice (about 2 pomegranates)
1/4 cup rose wine
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
1/2 teaspoon butter
2 tablespoons fruit pectin for less- or no-sugar recipes (such as Sure-Jell in pink box)
1 tablespoon grated lemon rind
1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary

Preparation
Combine sugar, pear, pomegranate juice, and wine in a large saucepan over medium heat; stir until sugar melts. Bring to a simmer; simmer 25 minutes or until pear is tender. Remove from heat; mash with a potato masher. Add pomegranate seeds and butter; bring to a boil. Stir in fruit pectin. Return mixture to a boil; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in lemon rind and rosemary. Cool to room temperature. Cover and chill overnight.

6. Blueberries

Why they’re good for you: Blueberries are rich in a natural plant chemical called anthocyanin which gives these berries their namesake color. Blueberries may help protect vision, lower blood sugar levels and keep the mind sharp by improving memory and cognition.

Serving size: one cup of blueberries

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 84
Fat: 0.5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 1 mg
Carbohydrates: 21.5 g
Dietary fiber: 3.6 g
Sugars: 14.7 g
Protein: 1 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Lemon-Blueberry with Mascarpone Oatmeal
Ingredients
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
Dash of salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon prepared lemon curd
3 tablespoons fresh blueberries
1 teaspoon mascarpone cheese
2 teaspoons sliced toasted almonds

Preparation
Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in oats and dash of salt. Reduce heat; simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat, and stir in sugar and lemon curd. Top oatmeal with blueberries, mascarpone cheese, and almonds.

7. Grapefruit

Why it’s good for you: Grapefruit may not be heralded as a “superfruit,” but it should be. Available in white, pink, yellow and red varieties, grapefruit is low in calories and loaded with nutrients, supporting weight loss, clear skin, digestive balance, increased energy and heart and cancer prevention.

Serving size: one large grapefruit

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 53
Fat: 0.2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 0 mg
Carbohydrates: 13.4 g
Dietary fiber: 1.8 g
Sugars: 11.6 g
Protein: 1 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Grilled Mahimahi with Peach and Pink Grapefruit Relish
Ingredients
1/3 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
2 1/2 cups diced peeled ripe peaches (about 1 1/2 pounds)
1 1/2 cups pink grapefruit sections (about 2 large grapefruit)
1/2 cup small mint leaves
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
6 (6-ounce) mahimahi or other firm whitefish fillets (about 3/4 inch thick)

Preparation
Prepare grill.

Place vinegar and sugar in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Place onion in a large bowl. Pour vinegar mixture over onion, tossing to coat; cool. Add peaches, grapefruit, mint, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to onion; toss gently.

Sprinkle fish with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Place fish on grill rack coated with cooking spray; grill 5 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

8. Tangerines

Why they’re good for you: A tangerine has more antioxidants than an orange, and this powerful little fruit is full of soluble and insoluble fiber that play a role in reducing disease risk and supporting weight management. Tangerines are a good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, which help lower the risk of chronic eye diseases like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Animal studies have suggested that flavonoids found in tangerines may be protective against type 2 diabetes and heart disease, so use the zest on fruit and vegetables to reap the benefits of the fruit’s natural oils.

Serving size: one small tangerine

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 40
Fat: 0.2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 2 mg
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Dietary fiber: 1.4 g
Sugars: 8 g
Protein: 0.6 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Tangerine and Avocado Salad with Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
2 tangerines, peeled
1 small avocado, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons toasted pumpkin seeds
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Dash of kosher salt

Preparation
Cut tangerines into rounds. Combine tangerines, avocado, lime juice, and olive oil; toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds, chili powder, and a dash of kosher salt.

9. Avocado

Why it’s good for you: Avocados contain nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, many of which are easily absorbed by the body. Simply substituting one avocado for a source of saturated fat (such as butter or full fat cheese) may reduce your risk of heart disease, even without weight loss.

Serving size: one avocado

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 322
Fat: 29.5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 14 mg
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Dietary fiber: 13.5 g
Sugars: 1 g
Protein: 4 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Chipotle Pork and Avocado Wrap
Ingredients
1/2 cup mashed peeled avocado
1 1/2 tablespoons low-fat mayonnaise
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons chopped canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
4 (8-inch) fat-free flour tortillas
1 1/2 cups (1/4-inch-thick) slices cut Simply Roasted Pork (about 8 ounces)
1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
1/4 cup bottled salsa

Preparation
Combine the first 7 ingredients, stirring well.

Warm tortillas according to package directions. Spread about 2 tablespoons avocado mixture over each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border. Arrange Simply Roasted Pork slices down center of tortillas. Top each tortilla with 1/4 cup shredded lettuce and 1 tablespoon salsa, and roll up.

Lastly,

10. Tomatoes

Why they’re good for you: Tomatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re rich in lycopene, a potent weapon against cancer. As one of the carotenoid phytochemicals (related to beta-carotene), lycopene appears to protect our cells’ DNA with its strong antioxidant power. Lycopene has also shown the ability to stimulate enzymes that deactivate carcinogens.

Serving size: one medium tomato

Nutrition per serving:
Calories: 22
Fat: 0.25 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 6 mg
Carbohydrates: 4.8 g
Dietary fiber: 1.5 g
Sugars: 3.2 g
Protein: 1.1 g

Recipe from Cooking Light: Tomato-Basil Soup
Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
3/4 teaspoon salt
3 (14.5-ounce) cans no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
Basil leaves (optional)

Preparation
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly. Stir in the broth, salt, and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 20 minutes. Stir in basil.

Place half of the soup in a blender; process until smooth. Pour pureed soup into a bowl, and repeat procedure with remaining soup. Garnish with basil leaves, if desired.

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MORNING HEALTH

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