tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21741206504753073522024-03-16T14:52:38.436-04:00My Wholesome HomeHolistic Nutrition, Pilates, Personal Training, Whole Foods Cooking Classes, Product Reviews and GiveawaysMelissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-31200206290724859012015-02-06T17:52:00.004-05:002015-02-06T17:52:35.887-05:00NEW Website!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hop on over to the new home of, My Wholesome Home. Visit us here: <a href="http://www.mywholesomehome.ca/">www.mywholesomehome.ca</a>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-20145306568738148362014-01-04T15:20:00.000-05:002014-01-04T15:29:58.315-05:00Recipe: Cauliflower Soup with Pancetta Hash<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cauliflower Soup with Pancetta Hash</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I created this soup the other day and I am quite proud of it. It's also very good with a sprinkle of parmessan cheese. Let me know what you think. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b>What you'll need:</b><br />
<br />
1 head of Cauliflower, cut in florets<br />
5 medium White Potatoes, peeled and diced<br />
3 medium stalks celery, chopped<br />
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped<br />
1 medium cooking onion, chopped<br />
1 shallot, chopped<br />
2 garlic cloves, minced<br />
1 tbsp fresh thyme<br />
1 teaspoon dried oregano<br />
1 Bay leave<br />
Sea salt and fresh ground pepper<br />
1/2 teaspoon dried chili pepper (if you like a bite!)<br />
3 ½ cups of chicken or vegetable stock<br />
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil<br />
1 litre water<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Pancetta Hash</b><br />
1/2 cup Pancetta, diced<br />
3 medium potatoes, diced (peel on)<br />
2 garlic cloves, crushed<br />
1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme<br />
1/4 teaspoon Paprika <br />
Salt and Pepper to taste<br />
1 tbsp Olive Oil<br />
<br />
<b>Directions</b><br />
<br />
<b>Soup</b><br />
1. In a 5 to 6-quart saucepot, heat oil on medium until hot.<br />
2. Add celery, carrot and onion, and cook 10 minutes or until tender.<br />
3. Add cauliflower and potatoes and cook for approx. 5 minutes.<br />
4. Stir in
chili, thyme, oregano, bay leave, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper;
cook 30 seconds, stirring.<br />
5. Add broth and water to saucepot; cover and heat to boiling on high. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 2-3 hours (the longer, the better!)<br />
6. In batches, ladle mixture into blender (remember to remove the bay leave). With center part of
blender cover removed to allow steam to escape, blend mixture
until pureed (you can also use a hand blender - but be careful as the mixture is hot!). Return all soup to saucepot and
heat through.<br />
7. Garnish each serving with a heaping tablespoon of Pancetta Hash <i>(see below)</i>. <br />
<br />
<i>Makes
approx 8 1/2 cups. </i><br />
<br />
<b>Pancetta Hash</b><br />
1. In a small saucepot bring 3 cups of water to a boil.<br />
2. Add diced potatoes and cook until tender.<br />
3. In a frying pan, heat oil on medium until hot.<br />
4. Add pancetta and garlic, and cook until garlic is golden brown.<br />
5. Add potatoes and seasoning, and cook until potatoes are crisp. <br />
6. Remove garlic.<br />
7. Garnish each serving of soup with a heaping tablespoon. <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-51898052072933089102013-12-20T08:00:00.000-05:002013-12-16T17:02:14.663-05:00New Year, New You: Baby Steps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bdEfUHvCEg/Twb-c8rKwEI/AAAAAAAAA1g/R7gIHQkiXrA/s1600/baby-steps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bdEfUHvCEg/Twb-c8rKwEI/AAAAAAAAA1g/R7gIHQkiXrA/s320/baby-steps.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
So you've started your New Year's health resolution. How's that going for you? Many people I have spoken to have <i>already</i> fallen off the wagon and it's only 6 days into the new year. Why is that? I think it's because their goals were unrealistic. If you are one of those people who've already said good-bye to their resolution to eat better or to go to the gym<i> every</i>day, perhaps you should read my post: <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-year-new-you.html">New Year, New You: Tips on Setting Goals </a><br />
<br />
After ready <i>New Year, New You: Tips on Setting Goals</i> I encourage you to <b>re-write</b> your New Year's health resolution using my tips.<br />
<br />
Now that you have your <b>new</b> New Year's health resolutions I want you to start each resolution at a pace you can keep up with. Think of this before you start. A baby doesn't learn how to walk overnight. He takes a serious of steps to get to the<b> end result</b>, walking.<br />
<br />
Step 1- Holding his head up.<br />
Step 2 - Sitting up on his own.<br />
Step 3 - Pulling himself up.<br />
Step 4 - Assisted walking.<br />
Step 5 (End Result) - Walking on his own.<br />
<br />
If your New Year's health resolution is to <b><i>Eat Better</i></b> here are a few baby steps that apply to most people who are currently eating an average North American diet. <br />
<br />
Step 1 - Avoid congesting foods (fatty meats, bad fats, refined flours, refined sugar, dairy)<br />
Step 2 - Eat a diet rich in <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/all-aboard-gluten-free-bandwagon.html">non-glutenous</a> whole grains, fresh fruits and
vegetables, fresh pressed juice, fresh spring water, raw nuts and seeds.<br />
Step 3 - Replace animal products at dinner at least 2 times per week with
alternative protein sources such as legumes, grains, greens, sprouts,
nuts and seeds.<br />
Step 4 - Eliminate or at least cut down on caffeine, alcohol, recreational drugs and tobacco.<br />
Step 5 - Eat in a calm and relaxed state, chew food thoroughly, keep meals simple and avoid overeating.<br />
<br />
It’s inevitable that you will have a minor or major setback along your
journey. A baby doesn't walk perfectly without have a few tumbles. They may cry but they always get up and start where they left off. You can learn a lot from them. After all we were once in their shoes, weren't we and we are doing just fine now walking on our own. A couple of chocolate cookies in the big scheme of things won’t
ruin your entire weight loss goal. It may set you back a bit and you’ll
probably feel guilty about it, but that’s it. Relax. My advice to my
clients: Take a deep breath, brush it off your shoulder and move on.
Learn from each lapse and come up with a strategy to work around it next
time. <br />
<br />
You may also find these articles I wrote helpful:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-year-new-you.html">New Year, New You: Tips on Setting Goals</a><br />
<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2010/03/6-easy-ways-to-improve-your-diet.html">The Un-Diet: Say NO to Dieting in 2014 </a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">The information presented here is not
intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a
qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice,
medicine selection and dosage. </span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-91181920545059400682013-12-19T08:00:00.000-05:002014-01-04T14:50:17.791-05:00The Un-Diet: Say NO to Dieting in 2014<br />
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So you're on a diet, eh? Undoubtedly the most popular New Year's Resolution is to lose weight, meaning going on a diet. I hate diets and completely disagree with them. You could say I am an old fashioned Nutritionist when it comes to making changes in your life. If you've read yesterday's post, <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-year-new-you.html">New Year, New You - 5 Tips to Help you Stick to your New Year's Resolution </a>you'll see that I am a believer and advocate on finding balance in your life. For the sake of this blog post I will be using the word <i>diet</i>, as in what you eat. If your New Year's Resolution is to lose weight then <i>please</i> consider <i>not</i> going on a diet and instead making a lifestyle change. <b>Concentrate on getting healthy and naturally the excess weight <i>will</i> come off. </b>Please take it from me when I say dieting does <i>not </i>work! Have you heard the phrase, <i>easy come, easy go</i>? It also applies to dieting. Drastically cutting calories will give you weight loss but as easy as it came off the easier you'll pack it on, and some. So say <i>no</i> to dieting, will ya? No more grapefruit diets, master cleanses, cabbage soup diets and all that other garbage. Just eat, and eat well. Here's how...<br />
<br />
<b>Eat Whole Foods</b> – This means eat foods that are closet to their natural state or closet too natural state. For instance, eat a baked sweet potato as opposed to a bag of potato chips, which has been processed, striped of its nutrients and saturated in oil and salt. Enjoy a crisp apple as opposed to packaged applesauce which in most cases contains refined sugar and preservatives. Choose sprouted or multi-grain breads over refined wheat where the bran and germ (the reservoir for vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids) have been removed.<br />
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<br />
<b>Choose Certified Organic</b> – The term <i>organic</i> simple means foods that have not been exposed to pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, hormones, fertilizers and other harmful chemicals during their growing stages. More organic in the diet means less toxic material entering the body, therefore less work your body has to do to get rid of it and less damage to your body. Your body is an organic being and needs organic, natural foods to be
well. Certain organic foods can be pricey and others are quite comparable to non-organic. Find a ratio of organic and non-organic foods in your kitchen that fit your household budget. <b>Fact:</b> If you are healthy and eating all fresh, organic
foods you should have no body odor. Body odor is a sign of toxicity. See: <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2010/03/spring-cleaning-your-body.html">Spring Cleaning: Your Body</a> for more information on toxicity in the body.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Choose Foods that are Dense in their Nutrients</b> – When making food choices concentrate on picking foods that are dense in their nutrients. For example, eat oranges for their vitamin C and Kale for its calcium. Also, go for more nutritious foods; romaine lettuce over iceberg lettuce, yams over white potatoes, brown rice over white rice and lean cut meats over organ meats and pork. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Moderation, Variety and Rotation</b> – We are all human and sometimes you just want to go out and have a burger and a beer with your bff. Let yourself have a cheat day and don’t feel guilty about it. A <i>cheat day</i> is an example of having <i>moderation</i> in your diet. Remember this: <b>Everything in moderation, even moderation. Don't be too laid back, you must <i>own</i> your lifestyle change to stick with it.</b> Variety is just as important. A good rule of thumb is to buy brightly coloured fruits and vegetables to ensure you are getting a variety of different vitamins and minerals in your diet. Remember this:<i><b> Similar Colours = Similar Nutrients</b></i>. Lastly, make sure to rotate your foods every day. Eating the same foods day after day can result to <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/food-allergy/AN01109">food intolerances</a>. <br />
<br />
<b>Drink Water </b>– Drink fresh spring or distilled water everyday. Your body is 55% body after all so it just makes sense! How much you ask? Divide your body weight by 2 and then divide by 8 to get the number of 8oz glasses of water you should drink per day.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<b>Balance</b> – Find a diet that is realistic and complements your lifestyle that way it becomes a part of your life and not just another <i>fad</i>. Balance in nutrients, food groups, flavours and colours, prevents boredom and nutritional imbalances. For more information on realistic goal setting read: <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-year-new-you.html">New Year, New You - 5 Tips to Help you Stick to your New Year's Resolution </a><br />
<br />
Pledge that 2014 will be the year you finally say NO to ridiculous dieting. <i>Eat, eat well and be well.</i> Don't make it complicated because it's not. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>You may also find these articles I wrote helpful:</b><br />
<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/10/video-tips-on-healthy-snacks.html">Tips on Healthy Snacks</a><br />
<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/sports-nutrition-pre-workout.html">Sports Nutrition: Pre-Workout </a><br />
<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/sports-nutrition-post-workout.html">Sports Nutrition: Post-Workout</a><br />
<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/top-5-healthy-sugar-substitutes.html">Top 5 Healthy Sugar Substitutes </a><br />
<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/5-stress-free-stress-busters.html">5 Stress-free Stress Busters </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">The information presented here is not intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection and dosage. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">Originally posted on January 2, 2012. </span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-42711946882724570952013-12-18T08:00:00.000-05:002013-12-16T16:58:28.741-05:00New Year, New You: Tips on Setting Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
5 Tips to Help you Stick to your New Year’s Health Resolution...once and for all!</div>
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<b>Be Realistic</b> –Every year millions of people make resolutions that never make it past March 1st because their goals sound great at the time but are completely unrealistic. If you’re starting a fitness and/or nutrition program, you need to ask yourself if it’s something you can do for the <i>rest </i>of your life. If the answer is <i>no! <b>Stop, Reassess, </b></i>and<i><b> Start Over.</b></i><br />
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<br />
<b>Find your Motivation</b> – Whether it’s the <i>teeny weeny polka dot bikini</i> or 10 proper push-ups figuring out <i>why </i>we want these things and having that motivation as your end goal is <i>very </i>important. Having that <i>light at the end of the tunnel</i> will give you the motivation you need when the road gets bumpy.<br />
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<b>Set a Timeline</b> – Write down your goals, come up with ways to reach them (Be Realistic – see Tip 1) and set a goal date. For example: Goal #1: Lose 10lbs of fat (that’s your goal), training with Personal Trainer 3 times per week + session with Nutritionist once per week (these are the things you’ll be doing to reach that goal) in 10 weeks (realistic goal date – 1-2lbs fat loss per week) <br />
<br />
<b>Hire an Expert</b> – Once January 1st hits the gyms are swarmed with <i>New Year’s Resolution-ers</i>. Many people don’t even bother to look at their current fitness level. Rather, they look to cardio machines and weights and just throw something together with the thought it will help them reach their goal. The best thing you can do is seek the advice of a Certified Personal Trainer and a Registered Holistic Nutritionist. Certified Personal Trainers are invaluable to showing you the exact things to do to reach your goal in the safest, most effective and shortest amount of time. Registered Holistic Nutritionists design nutrition and lifestyle programs which are unique to the individual's bio-chemistry and lifestyle patterns. Remember to check their credentials. You want a Registered Holistic Nutritionist with a diploma in Holistic Nutrition and a Certified Personal Trainer or Pilates/Yoga Instructor (depending on your needs and goals) who has completed all their courses, passed their exams and/or holds a diploma or degree in Exercise Physiology. <br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Learn from your Setbacks</b>- It’s inevitable that you will have a minor or major setback along your journey. A couple of chocolate cookies in the big scheme of things won’t ruin your entire weight loss goal. It may set you back a bit and you’ll probably feel guilty about it, but that’s it. Relax! My advice to my clients: Take a deep breath, brush it off your shoulder and move on. Learn from each lapse and come up with a strategy to work around it next time. End of story. <br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The information presented here is not intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection and dosage.</span></i> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-46262163276054806352013-12-17T08:00:00.000-05:002013-12-16T17:05:16.340-05:00Tips for Healthy Holiday Eating<style>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;">The
Holidays are here and in full effect! You’ve already found yourself surrounded
by chocolates, eggnog, cookies and party invites! Here are a few strategies on
how to stay on track during this tempting time of year. </span></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;">P<b><span style="font-family: Cambria;">re-plan</span></b></span></b><b><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt; font-weight: normal;">-</span></b><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;">Decide ahead of time how you will handle the different events of the
season. For non-festive days, plan healthy meals and snacks, and make sure to get
some exercise in every day, even if its just 30 minutes. <b> </b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"><b>TIP: </b>No time for exercise this time of year? Split your workout into two. 15 minutes first thing in the morning and 15 minutes before you go to bed. <br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Cambria;"><span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">Snack</span><span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"></span> - </span></b><b><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-weight: normal;">Eat a snack</span></b><b><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></b>before you head out to a dinner party. Have a cup
of yogurt with fresh fruit or some lavash and raw vegetables with hummus, so
hunger won’t rule your choices. <b>TIP: </b>Before you eat, have an 8oz glass of water. Often we
mistaken thirst for hunger. <br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Slow down </span></b>– There is no need
to do without your favourite foods, just take small portions , chew your food
and eat slowly. <b>TIP:</b> Put your cutlery down between bites and talk between bites, so
your meal will last longer and you will actually enjoy it rather than scarfing
it down.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Moderate - </span></b>Avoid guilty
pleasures <b><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-weight: normal;">you can have anytime</span></b><b>,</b> such as chocolates, cookies and
chips, and go with small portions of your seasonal favourites such as eggnog, rum-drenched
fruitcake and all the yummy fancy cheeses. <b>TIP:</b>
Before eating, see what is being served. If there are raw vegetables, seafood
(sans the butter), mini quiche, dips (sans the cream), start with those, to take
the edge off your appetite.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Have Dessert - </span></b>Have some
fruit half hour before having any rich dessert to avoid over doing it. <b>TIP:</b> Try to split
dessert with a friend and have a cup of herbal tea with it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n5xJ3O1VXQQ/TuNWRpg-UoI/AAAAAAAAAzc/Fi6JB6Q8lZ0/s1600/eggnog__54124_zoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n5xJ3O1VXQQ/TuNWRpg-UoI/AAAAAAAAAzc/Fi6JB6Q8lZ0/s400/eggnog__54124_zoom.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Enjoy a Drink...or two – </span></b>If
you are going to have that eggnog be aware that an eight-ounce serving of
non-alcoholic eggnog has about 362 calories. <b><b><span style="color: black; font-family: Cambria; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;">A five-ounce glass of white wine</span></b></b>
is 100 calories, a 12-ounce beer is 150 calories and a three-ounce martini has
about 195 calories. Weigh out your options. Do you want to drink your calories
or eat them? <b><span style="font-family: Cambria;">TIP: </span></b>H<b><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-weight: normal;">old your drink in your right hand</span></b><b><span style="font-family: Cambria;"> </span></b>if you are right-handed (or left hand if you’re a
lefty) as it will make it more difficult to reach for food on impulse. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 11pt;"><br />
</span><i>The information presented here is not intended to replace
professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection
and dosage.</i> <span style="font-size: x-small;"></span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-56984880749784880962012-05-07T14:44:00.002-04:002012-05-23T22:12:11.165-04:00Weleda Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dVs7Qcr5lvo/T6gXZAn6IXI/AAAAAAAAA48/vfBQBTshp6E/s1600/IMG00753-20120507-1436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dVs7Qcr5lvo/T6gXZAn6IXI/AAAAAAAAA48/vfBQBTshp6E/s400/IMG00753-20120507-1436.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm giving away a Pomegranate Regenerating Body Oil (100mL) and a Pomegranate Creamy Body Wash (7.2oz) from Weleda to one lucky My Wholesome Home winner who can share a eco-beauty tip or two.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Why I love Weleda</span><br />
<ul>
<li>Weleda is 100% Certified Natural Skin Care</li>
<li>Their packaging is 100% recycled paper made with certified renewable energy</li>
<li>The paper they print on is 100% post-consumer <a href="http://www.fsc.org/">fsc</a>-certified paper</li>
<li>Weleda ensure their ingredients are sustainably sourced, including growing many themselves in their biodynamic gardens. </li>
<li>Weleda
is the world's largest purchaser of wild roses so naturally they
developed a fair trade project with the local farmers and area residents
of the Turkish village of Senir. The farmers receive better wages, have
safe working conditions and are guaranteed a secure living. The cherry
on top: the wild roses are grown organically!</li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">To Enter</span><br />
<br />
Become a <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/">My Wholesome Home</a> blog follower (via Google Friend Connect) and visit <a href="http://www.weleda.com/">Weleda</a> and leave a comment here about your favourite eco-beauty tip.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Extra Entries</span> (leave a separate comment for each one):<br />
<br />
*
Blog about this contest (2 entries--please leave comment for me so I
know you blogged it and include link to my blog in your posting)<br />
* Subscribe to my updates<br />
* Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/MyWholesomeHome">@mywholesomehome</a> and tweet this giveaway, leaving a link to your tweet in the comments.
You can tweet once per day (leave a comment each day). You can copy and
paste my tweet if you'd like: #giveaway Win a @Weleda Pomegranate Prize Pack - @mywholesomehome <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.ca/2012/05/weleda-giveaway.html">http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.ca/2012/05/weleda-giveaway.html</a><br />
* Facebook mention this giveaway (include link to my blog)<br />
*If
you posted on your blog, twitter or Facebook page be sure to include
it in your post so I can check it out and also so I can return the
follow.<br />
* You can tweet and facebook mention once per day and receive an entry each time you do so.<br />
<br />
Canadian Postal addresses only.<br />
<br />
You must do the first entry in order to enter.<br />
<br />
You will have until Monday May 28th at 11:59pm EST to enter.<br />
<br />
The
winner will be chosen via random number generator the next day and
notified by email. I'll also post the winners on my blog HERE. If I
don't hear back from the winner within 72 hours, I'll pick another.<br />
<br />
Good luck!<br />
<br />
Check out Weleda's website for <a href="http://usa.weleda.com/images/coupons/special-offers/manu_coupons.pdf">coupons</a> and <a href="http://usa.weleda.com/our-products/special-offers.aspx">special offers</a>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-9224150568787564602012-04-15T14:45:00.000-04:002012-04-15T14:47:04.009-04:00Earth Day 2012: 10 Reasons Why you should choose Organic<link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5COwner%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5COwner%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx" rel="themeData"></link><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5COwner%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml" rel="colorSchemeMapping"></link>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1iHcptL4I/AAAAAAAAARY/PnjgP0LfnUU/s1600/freshorganicsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1iHcptL4I/AAAAAAAAARY/PnjgP0LfnUU/s400/freshorganicsign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;">The term ‘organic’ simple means foods that have not been
exposed to pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, hormones, fertilizers and other
harmful chemicals during their growing stages. More organic food in the diet
means less toxins in our soil, air and water and less toxic material entering
the body, therefore less work your body has to do to get rid of it and less
damage to your body.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Choosing
local reduces carbon emissions from planes, trains and automobiles and supports
your local farmers. When these non-local foods ride in trucks for a few days
they lose some of their nutritional quality and taste. You should also keep in
mind that local produce for instance is harvested at its peak whereas non-local
is picked when it’s not even fully ripe. This ensures the produce will not rot
on its way to the supermarket.</span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
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<div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><b>Top 10 Reasons to Eat Organic</b></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><b> </b> </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Healthier<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Organic food contains higher
levels of vitamin C and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, iron and
chromium as well as cancer-fighting antioxidants.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1gww3p3CI/AAAAAAAAARQ/j1rz3Z8hIIo/s1600/organic-broccoli-sign1-1024x624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1gww3p3CI/AAAAAAAAARQ/j1rz3Z8hIIo/s320/organic-broccoli-sign1-1024x624.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Contains
more nutrients<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Organic farming practices create
higher-quality soil that produces more nutritious crops. Organically grown
crops are more nutrient dense and contain more antioxidants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>GMO free<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Eighteen percent of all
genetically-modified seeds are engineered to produce their own pesticides.
Research shows that these seeds may continue producing pesticides inside your
body once you’ve eaten the food grown from them! Organic certification
standards prohibit the use of genetically modified organisms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Tastes
better</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Organic farming starts with the
nutrients of the soil which eventually leads to the nourishment of the plant
and ultimately our palates.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1dzkUguPI/AAAAAAAAAQw/Mqb68RcKfGg/s1600/wildlife+organic+farming.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1dzkUguPI/AAAAAAAAAQw/Mqb68RcKfGg/s320/wildlife+organic+farming.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Organic
farming works in harmony with nature.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Britain's Soil Association
reported that organic farms have five times as many wild plants with 57% more
species, 44% more birds and twice as many butterflies as non-organic farms.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1d98kZMPI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/I78LshW5nkU/s1600/organic-gardening-compost.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1d98kZMPI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/I78LshW5nkU/s320/organic-gardening-compost.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Organic
farming is better for the soil.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Organic farming techniques help
to build soil on an ongoing basis thereby preventing topsoil erosion and
organic soil contains up to twice as many beneficial microbes, earthworms and
insects as non-organic soil.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Organic
farming can feed more people.</b><o:p></o:p> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A 2002 Greenpeace report showed
that organic farms in Ethiopia produced 3-5 times more food than non-organic
farms; corn production increased by 20–250% on Brazilian organic farms and in
Peru organic crop yields increased by 150%. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1ew8DZpyI/AAAAAAAAARI/T74FxxpXWe8/s1600/cfia-canada-organic-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/TA1ew8DZpyI/AAAAAAAAARI/T74FxxpXWe8/s320/cfia-canada-organic-logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit; line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="font-family: inherit;">Certified organic food carries a guarantee</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Any food product that bears an organic
certification label is your guarantee that it has been grown and handled
according to strict organic production standards and that absolutely no toxic
chemicals have been used.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Organic farming is
climate-friendly</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Studies have shown that organic soil
stores up to 33% more carbon than non-organic soil, which directly helps in the
fight against global warming.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Organic foods are supportive
of growing children’s brains and bodies</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Children’s growing brains and bodies are far more susceptible to toxins than
adults. Choosing organic helps feed their bodies without the exposure to
pesticides and genetically-modified organisms, both of which have a relatively
short history of use (and therefore safety).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">The Dirty Dozen: Top 12 Most Heavily Sprayed Crops</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">FDA and USDA research shows high levels of pesticide and chemical contamination in these common foods:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">1) </span><span lang="en-US">Beef, Pork and Poultry</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">2) </span><span lang="en-US">Meat, Cheese and Butter</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">3) </span><span lang="en-US">Strawberries, Raspberries and Cherries</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">4) </span><span lang="en-US">Apples and Pears</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">5) </span><span lang="en-US">Tomatoes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">6) </span><span lang="en-US">Potatoes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">7) </span><span lang="en-US">Spinach and other greens</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">8) </span><span lang="en-US">Coffee</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">9) </span><span lang="en-US">Peaches and Nectarines</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">10) </span><span lang="en-US">Grapes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;">11) </span><span lang="en-US">Celery</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="en-US" style="font-weight: bold;"><span dir="ltr"></span>12) </span></span><span lang="en-US"><span style="font-size: small;">Red and Green Bell Peppers</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-56514957810644562742012-04-15T14:30:00.002-04:002012-04-15T14:39:22.972-04:00Earth Day 2012: 5 Homespun Holistic Cleaning Recipes<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454488825784033794" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/S7I8sBwx4gI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/92eL025aetE/s1600/cleaning.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" />We have been quite lucky here in Ontario as<br />
Spring has been in the air for nearly a month. Chances are you have or you'll start feeling the urge to purge and clean your home this time of year (also known as "Spring Cleaning"). But before you take out the chemical-based cleaning products think twice.<br />
<br />
There are many negative effects of cleaning your home with harsh chemical-based household cleaners: Free radical damage; which can cause DNA mutations, speed up aging process, damage to collagen, increase toxicity level in body which can lead to increase risk of heart disease, cataracts, cancer and the harmful effects on the environment. <br />
<br />
My mother was great at finding natural and inexpensive ways to clean the house. Here are some safe, effective, easy and inexpensive recipes that she passed on to me and some that I have come up with over the years.<br />
<br />
<b>Cleaning tiles and shower enclosures </b><br />
Apply lemon oil with a scouring pad to surface area. When clean, wash will hot water and dry with clean towel.<br />
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<b>Removing white rings in furniture </b><br />
Apply a thin layer of mayonnaise to stain. Cover mayonnaise with plastic wrap. Allow to sit for one hour. Remove the plastic wrap and work the mayonnaise into the finish. Ta da! White ring all gone!<br />
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<b>Removing hard water spots</b><br />
Soak cleaning rag in white vinegar that way it is super saturated. Grab rag and start scrubbing!<br />
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<b>Clearing drains </b><br />
Pour 1 cup of salt into drain, followed by 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of white vinegar. Allow the vinegar to react with the salt and baking soda for about 30 seconds (foaming occurs). Then add two quarts of boiling water.<br />
<br />
<b>Multi-surface cleaning </b><br />
Probably my most favourite homemade cleaner. Fill up a spray bottle with cold tap water and add 10 drops of tea tree oil. I use this mixture to clean everything from the kitchen counter, my son's placemat and toys to my Yoga mat and exercise equipment. A small bottle of tea tree oil will cost you a pretty penny $15-$20, but it will last for up to a year. White Vinegar and water also works well....if you can stand the smell.<br />
<br />Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-4530764137882617072012-04-15T13:50:00.001-04:002012-04-15T14:18:00.482-04:00Earth Day 2012: 6 Easy Ways to Improve your Diet and the Environment<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/S9Bc8-n97-I/AAAAAAAAAGg/kYtA5zb38k4/s1600/Earth.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462968550672953314" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_xi9_Vg71voE/S9Bc8-n97-I/AAAAAAAAAGg/kYtA5zb38k4/s400/Earth.jpg" style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt;" width="400" /></a><br />
Earth Day is a week away and in it's <br />
honour and in appreciation to our bodies here are 6 easy ways to improve your diet and the environment.<br />
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We all know that natural nutrition is essential in preventing disease and bringing our bodies to a place of balance. Little tweaks in your current diet can make all the difference in the world to your health.<br />
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But did you know that these changes to what you put on your plate can have an impact on the environment?<br />
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Follow these 6 easy tips and enjoy your ride to optimum health and a greener earth through natural nutrition.<br />
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<b>Eat Whole Foods</b><br />
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This means eat foods that are closet to their natural state or closet too nature. For instance, eat a baked sweet potato as opposed to a bag of potato chips, which has been processed, striped of its nutrients and saturated in oil and salt. Choose sprouted or multi-grain breads over refined wheat where the bran and germ (the reservoir for vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids) have been removed. Try This: Close your eyes and imagine what a “whole food” looks like. Does a cereal box with a picture of a toucan come to your mind? (If so, you definitely need to continue reading) Or does the words “whole food” bring a picture of freshly harvested fruits, vegetables and whole grains?<br />
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Most “food” products, if not all, that come neatly packaged in colourful boxes and plastics have been made in a factory where pollutants are being pumped into our air and waste is being spilled into our oceans. Whole foods do great things for your body and even greater things for our earth.<br />
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<b>Choose Local and Certified Organic</b><br />
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The term ‘organic’ simple means foods that have not been exposed to pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, hormones, fertilizers and other harmful chemicals during their growing stages. More organic food in the diet means less toxins in our soil, air and water and less toxic material entering the body, therefore less work your body has to do to get rid of it and less damage to your body.<br />
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Choosing local reduces carbon emissions from planes, trains and automobiles and supports your local farmers. When these non-local foods ride in trucks for a few days they lose some of their nutritional quality and taste. You should also keep in mind that local produce for instance is harvested at its peak whereas non-local is picked when it’s not even fully ripe. This ensures the produce will not rot on its way to the supermarket.<br />
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If you’ve ever eaten a tree-ripened peach I don’t need to tell you how it bursts with flavour and juices over the truck-ripened peach which is dry and bland. Ideally you want to eat food that is both organic and local.<br />
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<b>Choose foods that are dense in their nutrients</b><br />
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When making food choices concentrate on picking foods that are dense in their nutrients. For example, eat oranges for their vitamin C and Kale for its calcium. Also, go for more nutritious foods; romaine lettuce over iceberg lettuce, yams over white potatoes, brown rice over white rice and lean cut meats over organ meats and pork. A package of frozen french fries is not dense in its nutrients because of the chemicals, fats and salt added to them.<br />
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Making your own homemade French fries reduces waste in the landfills and air pollutants spewed from the factories. And of course, they will taste a million times better and will be so much healthier than the packaged kind.<br />
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<b>Moderation, Variety and Rotation</b><br />
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We are all human and sometimes you just want to go out for a burger and a beer with your bff. Let yourself have a cheat day and don’t feel guilty about it either. A ‘cheat day’ is an example of having moderation in your diet. But remember a ‘cheat day’ meal is not an ‘everyday meal.’<br />
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A Smithsonian study estimates that the need for grazing land and grain feed leads to the destruction of a land area equivalent to seven football fields in the Amazon basin every single minute. This means that if you eat a hamburger from a cow raised in South America, you’re meal has contributed to 55 square feet of rain forest destruction. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(1)</span> Still want that Baconator?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">add variety to your plate</td></tr>
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A good rule of thumb is to buy brightly coloured fruits and vegetables to ensure you are getting a variety of different vitamins and minerals in your diet. (similar colours =s imilar nutrients).<br />
Lastly, make sure to rotate your foods every day. Eating the same foods day after day can result to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%28http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/food-allergy/AN01109%29">food intolerances</a>.<br />
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<b>Drink Water</b><br />
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Drink fresh spring or distilled water every day. <b>Divide your body weight by 2 and then divide by 8 to get the number of 8oz glasses of water you should drink per day.</b> Your body needs water to live, detoxify, metabolize fat, transports nutrients and oxygen to cells and moisturize and protect your organs.<br />
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Soda pop and so-called nutritious boxed juices come in a variety of plastic, tin and tetra materials which overflow our landfills. Substituting these non-foods with clean drinking water will help reduce landfill waste. Be sure to invest in a glass or stainless steel water bottle to reduce plastic bottle waste in the landfills.<br />
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<b>I like:</b> <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/noble-glass-travel-mug">DAVIDs TEA Noble Glass Travel Thermos</a> as it's not only for your loose leaf tea but can also hold your water, smoothies and post-workout shakes. <br />
<b><br /> </b><br />
<b>Say NO to GMO</b><br />
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Genetically Modified Organism (GMOs) and Genetically Engineered Microorganism (GEM) refer to a living organism that has been genetically altered using molecular genetics techniques such as gene cloning and protein engineering, making them more stable and resistant to drought, disease and pesticides. Studies have shown that the B.T. gene used in the GMO crops caused death in organisms such as the monarch butterflies <span style="font-size: x-small;">(1)</span>.<br />
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An article published in Lancet examined the effects of GMO potatoes on the digestive tract in rats <span style="font-size: x-small;">(2)(3)</span> This study claimed that there were significant differences in the intestines of rats fed GMO potatoes and rats fed unmodified potatoes which led to pre-mature death. “Would you like to super-size your fries?” Not unless they’re Certified Organic!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hX6-dxNMGoo/T4sQEl0k5yI/AAAAAAAAA40/_al0Cr39xxs/s1600/DSC_8307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hX6-dxNMGoo/T4sQEl0k5yI/AAAAAAAAA40/_al0Cr39xxs/s320/DSC_8307.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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On Earth Day 2012 make an effort to find a diet that has balance in nutrients, food groups, flavours and colours. A varied diet will prevent boredom and nutritional imbalances. Be sure to keep it realistic and complementary to your lifestyle that way it becomes a part of your life and not just another ‘fad.’<br />
<br />
By incorporating even one of the 6 tips you will not only be nurturing your body but also making a positive difference in preserving our beautiful precious earth. Remember, we only have one Earth and once it’s gone it’s never coming back.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(1) Smithsonian Institution, “Smithsonian Researchers Show Amazonian Deforestation Accelerating,” Science Daily Online, 15 Jan. 2002.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(2) Transgenic pollen harms monarch larvae (Nature, Vol 399, No 6733, p 214, May 1999)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(3)Effect of diets containing genetically modified potatoes expressing Galanthus nivalis lectin on rat small intestine (Lancet, Vol 354, No 9187, pp 1353-1354, Oct 1999)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(4)Safety of genetically modified food questioned: Interview with gene scientist, Dr Arpad Pusztai(http://www.wsws.org/articles/1999/jun1999/gmo-j03.shtml )</span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">For more on GMOs visit: http://www.saynotogmos.org/scientists_speak.htm</span></b><br />
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<i>Some of the photos in this post</i><i><span class="fbPhotoCaptionText"> belong to Melissa Macchione. <br /> Unauthorized use is prohibited. If you have any questions please contact the administrator.</span></i></div>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-66536334009230879282012-02-26T12:41:00.002-05:002012-02-26T12:48:44.706-05:00Drink your Tea and Eat it too!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GQiZ5Iwz8bg/T0pg260afOI/AAAAAAAAA3c/a97xGTMMobY/s1600/davidstealogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GQiZ5Iwz8bg/T0pg260afOI/AAAAAAAAA3c/a97xGTMMobY/s1600/davidstealogo.jpg" /></a></div>
This post is inspired by my love for <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/">DAVIDs TEA</a>. On any given day I drink 5-8 cups of tea. From <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/nepal-black-tea-1905">Nepal Black</a> to <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/long-life-oolong">Long Life Oolong</a> to <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/orange-blossom">Orange Blossom</a> and <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/midsummer-night-s-dream">Midsummer Night's Dream </a>my obsession for tea keeps growing one <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/the-perfect-tea-mug">Perfect Mug</a> at a time. It sure helps that I work as a Store Manager for them at one of their Toronto locations. Now that I am getting the swing of things at my new gig my creative juices are flowing once again. I've created two recipes using their tea. <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/organic-turmeric-snap">Organic Turmeric Snap</a> and <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/sleigh-ride">Sleigh Ride</a>. The recipes are easy, economical, vegetarian and nutritious. Buon appetito!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Sweet Potato, Lentil, Mung Bean Turmeric Stew </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFTTr77-OEE/T0pndJwUVlI/AAAAAAAAA3s/b0lIrMOpwcA/s1600/IMG00682-20120226-1127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YFTTr77-OEE/T0pndJwUVlI/AAAAAAAAA3s/b0lIrMOpwcA/s320/IMG00682-20120226-1127.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet Potato, Lentil, Mung Bean Turmeric Stew</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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1 cup Sprouted lentils</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup Sprouted mung beans </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(I like: <a href="http://www.shashabread.com/bio-buds/">ShaSha Bio-Buds</a>)</div>
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4 cups boiling water</div>
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4 cups vegetable stock </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
½ cup chopped onion</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 cloves garlic, minced</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
½ cup chopped carrots</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
½ cup chopped celery</div>
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3 medium sweet potatoes, cubed </div>
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3 fresh or canned roma tomatoes</div>
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¼ cup olive oil</div>
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1 teaspoon fine sea salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
¼ tsp black pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 bay leaves</div>
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and... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XNwNpja0h2U/T0pm0s1dCYI/AAAAAAAAA3k/WZLAZ97g75c/s1600/OrganicTurmericSnapjpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XNwNpja0h2U/T0pm0s1dCYI/AAAAAAAAA3k/WZLAZ97g75c/s1600/OrganicTurmericSnapjpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/perfect-pot-of-tea-spoon">Perfect Measuring Spoon</a> of <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/organic-turmeric-snap">Organic Turmeric Snap</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wash and pick over lentils and mung beans</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Soak in 2 cups water for 25 minutes</div>
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In soup pot sauté onion, garlic, carrots, celery and sweet potatoes in olive oil until tender. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add Organic Turmeric Snap and mix well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add lentils, mung beans, water, vegetable stock, tomatoes, salt, pepper and bay leaves; bring to a boil.</div>
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Reduce heat and cook for 1.5-2hrs until lentils and mung beans are soft.</div>
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Remove bay leaves.</div>
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Stir and serve.</div>
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Snap! That's a good stew!</div>
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Yield 8 servings</div>
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<b>Protein</b> approx. 32 grams<br />
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Cinnamon Apple-Raisin Banana Bread </b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Cxmi1ClQp8/T0pqA7hSI4I/AAAAAAAAA30/KeAjCav7Pw0/s1600/IMG00685-20120226-1217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Cxmi1ClQp8/T0pqA7hSI4I/AAAAAAAAA30/KeAjCav7Pw0/s320/IMG00685-20120226-1217.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinnamon Apple-Raisin Banana Bread </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
1 scant cup of Dark brown sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 cup butter or margarine (I use: <a href="http://www.earthbalancenatural.com/#/products/soy-free/">Earth Balance</a>)</div>
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3 ripe Bananas</div>
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1 1/4 cup All-purpose Spelt Flour</div>
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1 tsp Baking Soda<br />
and...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxJlFYUzWig/T0pvIow-lhI/AAAAAAAAA38/kTfonMUfqXI/s1600/sleighride.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxJlFYUzWig/T0pvIow-lhI/AAAAAAAAA38/kTfonMUfqXI/s1600/sleighride.png" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
4 <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/perfect-pot-of-tea-spoon">Perfect Measuring Spoons</a> of <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/sleigh-ride">Sleigh Ride</a> (this is where the Cinnamon, Apple-Raisin comes from!)</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Steep 4 <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/perfect-pot-of-tea-spoon">Perfect Measuring Spoons</a> of <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/sleigh-ride">Sleigh Ride</a> for 7 minutes in 4 cups of boiling water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Place sugar, eggs, butter and bananas in mixer until blended</div>
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Add flour and baking soda. Mix.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Drain steeped tea (don't discard the liquid...make yourself a cup!) and add to mixture. Mix.</div>
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Pour into 9x5-inch greased loaf pan or mini loaf pan</div>
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Bake at 350 for 55 minutes. Cool and remove from pan. </div>
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Enjoy with a hot cup of <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/sleigh-ride">Sleigh Ride</a>!</div>
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<i>Some of the photos in this post</i><i><span class="fbPhotoCaptionText"> belong to Melissa Macchione. <br /> Unauthorized use is prohibited. If you have any questions please contact the administrator.</span></i></div>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-62395083756248181432012-02-23T07:42:00.011-05:002012-03-05T21:37:08.099-05:00Why you need Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Review and Giveaway<div style="float: right; margin-left: 20px; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">Chances are you've heard the terms <i>fatty acid, EFAs and omega-3 </i>before,
but do you know what a fatty acid really is or why your body needs it?
No sweat! I make it all very easy for you to understand. <b>What about
the different types of fatty acids, what foods you can naturally find
them in and whether or not you should supplement?</b> </span></div>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYXNHSJk25k/T0ox7XapjMI/AAAAAAAAA3U/XxERsdGCEUU/s1600/eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bYXNHSJk25k/T0ox7XapjMI/AAAAAAAAA3U/XxERsdGCEUU/s320/eggs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </div>
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<div style="color: black; text-align: left;">
Fatty acids are important for all systems of the body to function
normally, including your skin, respiratory system, circulatory system,
brain and organs. The two essential fatty acids that the human body cannot produce are
the omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 fatty acid, which are important for
brain development, immune system function and blood pressure regulation. Today we are going to talk about Omega-3. Stay tuned for my write up on Omega-6. </div>
<div style="color: black; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; text-align: left;">
<b>What is Omega-3 Fatty Acid?</b></div>
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<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as "good fats," are essential for optimal health. Like vitamins and minerals,
omega-3 must be provided by our diet as it is not produced by our
bodies. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Eicosapentaenoic Acid</span> (</span><span style="font-size: small;">EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> (</span><span style="font-size: small;">DHA) are the active forms of omega-3 required by the body
to perform vital functions.</span></div>
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</tbody></table>
<div style="color: black; font-size: 103%; font-weight: bold; margin-left: 10px;">
Omega-3 Foods</div>
<div style="color: black; font-size: 103%; font-weight: bold; margin-left: 10px;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mrmJjU8PZtA/T0Y3t_VMLFI/AAAAAAAAA28/SfpLyNHvROQ/s1600/omega-3-sources.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mrmJjU8PZtA/T0Y3t_VMLFI/AAAAAAAAA28/SfpLyNHvROQ/s1600/omega-3-sources.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fatty Fish, Eggs, Nuts and Seeds, Flax Seed and Flax Oil, Leafy Green Vegetables, Spirulina</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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</div>
<table style="border: medium none; width: 440px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="width: 190px;"><br /></td><td style="width: 190px;"><br /></td>
<td style="width: 250px;"></td><td style="width: 250px;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="border: medium none; width: 440px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="width: 250px;"><div style="color: black; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><b>Omega-3 function in the body</b></span></span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Promotes cardiovascular health</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Reduces inflammation </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Supports mental focus and cognitive function </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Supports positive mood and emotional well-being</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Promotes brain, eye and nervous system health </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Supports healthy immune system function </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Enhances appearance of skin and hair</span><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"> </span><br />
Promotes optimal fat metabolism<br />
<br />
<h4 style="color: black;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Health Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acid</span><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"> </span></h4>
<h4 style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></h4>
<h4 style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Research on the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acid have shown that it may be useful for supporting the following conditions.</span></h4>
<table><tbody>
<tr></tr>
<tr><td style="font-family: inherit; width: 190px;"><ul>
<li style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Asthma </span></li>
<li style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Diabetes </span></li>
<li style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Arthritis </span></li>
<li style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Osteoporosis </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Some Cancers </span></span></li>
<li style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Skin Problems</span></li>
</ul>
</td><td style="font-family: inherit; width: 230px;"><ul>
<li style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">High Cholesterol </span></li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">High Blood Pressure </span></li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Attention Disorders</span></li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Depression </span></li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Digestive Disorders</span></li>
<li style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Obesity </span> </span></li>
</ul>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<ul></ul>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ky-1ax-lKsI/T0JKISqrIII/AAAAAAAAA2c/d6Tpdb9IPCk/s1600/omega3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ky-1ax-lKsI/T0JKISqrIII/AAAAAAAAA2c/d6Tpdb9IPCk/s320/omega3.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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<div style="color: black;">
<b>Why you Should Supplement</b></div>
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<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">If you don’t eat fish—the main food source of the omega-3s DHA and
EPA—at least two to three times a week, you might consider a supplement. Go for DHA+EPA. Studies suggest that this combination of omega-3s is
best for overall health (e.g., preventing heart disease and depression,
promoting healthy brain development). A third type of omega-3 fat,
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), found in flax, is not very effective at
promoting <b>overall </b>health <b>but</b> is still very healthy for you and a great complement to a whole and healthy diet.</span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Individuals who consume a high amount of
fatty fish in their diet tend not to need to supplement with fish oil as much or as often, however you should also remember that many
of the fish varieties do contain higher levels of mercury, which also
needs to be monitored in the human body.
</span>
</div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">If these levels of mercury get too high,
that can cause a boat load of problems, so it's vital that you keep a good balance. A high quality and trusted fish oil supplement along with fatty fish on occasion will be the best
way to meet your body's needs safely.
</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Giveaway</b></span></div>
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">A BIG thank-you to <a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/">Ascenta Health</a> for awarding one lucky My
Wholesome Home follower a prize pack valued at $150 which includes:</span></div>
<div style="color: black; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: black; text-align: center;">
<pre style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/products/human/nutrasea/">NutraSea Mango</a>
<a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/products/human/nutrasea-d/">NutraSea with Vitamin D</a>
NutraSea Canine
NutraSea Feline
<a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/products/human/nutrasea-kids/">NutraSea Kids</a></span></pre>
</div>
<pre style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><b>Why I love Ascenta products</b></pre>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<pre style="font-family: inherit;"><b> </b></pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Every Ascenta product is manufactured under government audited, Good Manufacturing Practices. </pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Before their products leave their facility, they are sent to an external laboratory to ensure that they </pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">exceed the stringent quality standards of the <a href="http://www.who.int/en/">World Health Organization</a> and the </pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goedomega3.com/">Global Organization for EPA and DHA (GOED)</a>. Their fish oils do not smell like a fish market! </pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Instead they smell and taste of fresh ripe fruits likes mangos and citrus. You can easily add your oil </pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">to a smoothie, yogurt or salad.<b style="font-weight: normal;"> All Ascenta products are </b><b>third</b>-party tested for contaminants </pre>
<pre style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">including mercury, PCBs and dioxins. Now that is a clean and high-quality product if you ask me!</pre>
</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My personal supply of Ascenta products</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">To Enter</span></span></b><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
Become a <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: blue;">My Wholesome Home</span></a> blog follower and visit <a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/">Ascenta Health.</a> and leave a comment here about your favorite product or something you
learned about the product and/or company.<br />
<br />
<b>Extra Entries</b> (leave a separate comment for each one):<br />
<br />* Blog about this contest </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">
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link to your tweet in the comments. You can tweet once per day (leave a comment
each day). You can copy and paste my tweet if you'd like: Win an <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/Ascenta_Health">@Ascenta_Health </a>Gift Pack at <a href="http://twitter.com/MyWholesomeHome">@mywholesomehome</a> </span><a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2012/02/why-you-need-omega-3-fatty-acids-review.html">http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2012/02/why-you-need-omega-3-fatty-acids-review.html</a><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;"> #giveaway </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">*Follow </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;"></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/Ascenta_Health">@Ascenta_Health</a></span> <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">on Twitter</span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">*Like me on <a href="http://facebook.com/MyWholesomeHome">Facebook</a></span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">* Read one of my blog entries and leave a comment</span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">*Facebook mention this giveaway (include link to my blog)</span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">If
you posted on your blog, Twitter or Facebook page (one entry each per
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so I can return the follow. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">
<br />
Canada Postal addresses only.<br />
<br />
<b>You must do the first entry in order to enter.</b><br /> </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">You will have until Monday March 12, 2012. at 11:59pm EST to enter.<br /> </span><br style="font-family: inherit;" /><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">The winner will be chosen via random number generator (<a href="http://www.random.org/">www.random.org</a>) the next day and notified
by email. I'll also post the winners on my blog in the comments below. If I don't hear back from
the winner within 72 hours, I'll pick another.<br />
<br />
Good luck!</span></span>
<b> </b><br />
<br />
For more information on <a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/products/human/nutrasea/">NutraSea</a>, <a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/products/human/nutravege/">NutraVege</a> and their amazing products for children and pets, visit their website: <a href="http://www.ascentahealth.com/">www.ascentahealth.com</a><br />
<br />Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com107tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-26256863302908495682012-01-08T08:01:00.002-05:002012-01-08T08:10:43.963-05:00Common Cold Remedies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Caught that cold everyone has? Here are some tips to get rid of that pesky visitor.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZAyXZTqVyE/TwmUMxC8T6I/AAAAAAAAA2I/hg7uhqpHNN8/s1600/common-cold1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZAyXZTqVyE/TwmUMxC8T6I/AAAAAAAAA2I/hg7uhqpHNN8/s1600/common-cold1.gif" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Rest – The number one <i>must t</i>o get rid of your cold. If you can’t find
the time to rest than that little bugger won't go away. Being well rested
helps your body direct it’s energy toward the immune battle against your
cold. Help out your immune system by taking the time to lay down. That
means if you are a busy mother and time is almost extinct in your life
try to lay down when the little one if down for a nap. The pile of
laundry and sink full of dishes can wait. They may be
waiting for a while but they can wait. You need your rest! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0RHojhM_Gn4/TwmRBcHAPPI/AAAAAAAAA1o/MLQirYHgu_s/s1600/emergen-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0RHojhM_Gn4/TwmRBcHAPPI/AAAAAAAAA1o/MLQirYHgu_s/s1600/emergen-c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0RHojhM_Gn4/TwmRBcHAPPI/AAAAAAAAA1o/MLQirYHgu_s/s400/emergen-c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Vitamin C – Pick-up
some <a href="http://www.emergenc.com/">Emergen-C</a>, convenient little packets of 1,000mg of Vitamin C and a
bunch of other vitamins and minerals. <b>Easy to use:</b> dissolve in a glass
of water and drink up! Comes in a variety of flavours. I personally like
Lemon-Lime, but they are all tasty. You can buy them about everywhere
these days; health food stores, pharmacies, grocery stores. Vitamin C
boosts your immune system, reduces the intensity and duration of cold
systems. <br />
<br />
Water – When you are sick the membranes of the
respiratory tract become super dry. A dry throat invites unwanted
organisms to settle and reproduce. Drinking water will keep your throat
moist, prevent you from becoming dehydrated and help break up
congestion. <b>Recommended: </b>8-10 eight-ounce glasses of water daily for the average adult. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJSokH_5viY/TwmRTNi0C8I/AAAAAAAAA1w/VA0Wp9vVPes/s1600/oil-of-oregano2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJSokH_5viY/TwmRTNi0C8I/AAAAAAAAA1w/VA0Wp9vVPes/s1600/oil-of-oregano2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJSokH_5viY/TwmRTNi0C8I/AAAAAAAAA1w/VA0Wp9vVPes/s400/oil-of-oregano2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sJSokH_5viY/TwmRTNi0C8I/AAAAAAAAA1w/VA0Wp9vVPes/s1600/oil-of-oregano2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
Oil of Oregano – This
stuff tastes vile but it works! Oil of Oregano is an excellent early
defense mechanism when you feel a cold or sore throat coming on. If you
are already sick, it will help clear up sinus congestion and will boost
your depressed immune system. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vKgfTkMvcdI/TwmRfA0Qk7I/AAAAAAAAA14/PiipRivWp9k/s1600/garlic+bulbs+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vKgfTkMvcdI/TwmRfA0Qk7I/AAAAAAAAA14/PiipRivWp9k/s400/garlic+bulbs+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Garlic – Garlic appears to
shorten a cold’s duration and severity due to its immune boosting
capabilities and antiviral, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
You can take the odorless tablet form or you can eat it in its raw form.
If you are choosing the latter make sure to chop or mash the garlic to
release it’s active component, allicin, which only forms when in contact
with the air. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tn_ROvNy8fo/TwmRlVzi8RI/AAAAAAAAA2A/hJdS7MT--ec/s1600/seasalt4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tn_ROvNy8fo/TwmRlVzi8RI/AAAAAAAAA2A/hJdS7MT--ec/s400/seasalt4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Salt water gargle – Again like the Oil of
Oregano, gross but effective. The salt draws out the mucosa in the
throat and the gargle eases the irritation in the throat. Try half a
teaspoon of sea slat dissolves in 8-ounces of warm water 3-4 times
daily.<br />
<br />
Remember, the key to avoid getting sick is to build a strong Immune System. Read my: <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/top-5-immune-boosters.html">Top 5 Immune Boosters </a><br />
<br />
<b>Cool Stuff:</b> For a FREE sample of Emergen-C visit: <a href="http://www.vitascorb.com/samples.html">Canadian residents</a> and <a href="http://www.emergenc.com/free-samples">US residents</a> <span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: italic;">The information presented
here is not intended to replace professional medical care when needed.
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis,
therapy choice, medicine selection and dosage. </span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com265tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-52979913353379786512011-12-10T16:17:00.002-05:002011-12-10T16:19:45.514-05:00Give the Gift of Wellness<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">GIVE
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Certificates are now available. </span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">Choose from a variety of <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/p/nutrition.html">services</a> or
simply a numeric value. </span></span></h6>
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by December 15th. </span></span></h6>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">For more information: e-mail:
melissa.macchione@bell.net call: (416)272-6006</span></span></h6>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-4418579596357750132011-12-10T14:48:00.001-05:002011-12-10T14:53:58.379-05:00Beautiful Beets: Benefits and Recipes<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZymYWgqXJw/TuOwUQZTvHI/AAAAAAAAAz0/jGvgHK3PQ-Y/s1600/beets-4621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZymYWgqXJw/TuOwUQZTvHI/AAAAAAAAAz0/jGvgHK3PQ-Y/s400/beets-4621.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I'm really feeling the abundance of root veggies in the markets this time of year. I especially have been drawn to beets. Perhaps it's a subtle signal from my body that my liver needs some extra care as I have been under some<a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/5-stress-free-stress-busters.html"> stress </a>the past couple of months. It is no secret that beets are your liver's best friend. They improve your liver by thinning bile and allowing it to flow through the liver and into the small intestine more freely. Bile breaks down fat and stimulates peristalsis (digestive tract muscle contractions that move food along) it also reduces the risk of forming gallstones. Beets also protect against cancer, Alzheimer's and osteoporosis and neural tube defects in babies. They are filled with a respectable amount of goodness. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Nutrition Value of Beets: Per 100 gm</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Vitamin A : 20 IU </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thiamine : .02 mg </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Riboflavin : .05 mg </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Niacin : .4 mg </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Vitamin C : 10 mg </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Calcium : 27 mg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Iron : 1.0 mg </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Phosphorus : 43 mg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fat : .1 gm</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Carbohydrates : 9.6 gm </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Protein : 1.6 gm </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Calories : 42</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Juicing </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My all time favourite way to eat beets is actually by drinking them because of the instant energy boost I get. A study led by the University of Exeter, published in 2009 in the
"Journal of Applied Physiology," reported that beet juice may have the
most benefits when it comes to improving athletic stamina. Not only has
beet juice been found to help boost athletic performance, but the
vegetable has also been linked to helping those with lung and heart
problems and aiding in general overall health. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Nitrates </b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<section class="section">
</section></div>
<div class="description ">
The
Exeter-led study pointed to the benefits of nitrates, concluding that
they boost a cyclists's endurance by 16 percent. Nitrates are helpful to
athletes because they quickly bring oxygen to muscles, essentially
making the hard efforts easier. Consider a glass of beet juice as part of your <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/sports-nutrition-pre-workout.html">pre-workout</a> meal. </div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">More Benefits of Beet Juice </span><br />
Helps stimulate the function of liver cells and protect the liver and bile ducts. <br />
<br />
Effective in the treatment of acidosis as it is an alkaline vegetable. <br />
<br />
Can help relieve constipation<br />
<br />
Beet juice and carrot juice when combined is excellent in the healing gout, kidney and gall bladder problem.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Recipe: Liver Detox Juice</span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qe0Mb4OWbgc/TuOw_Qbq6xI/AAAAAAAAAz8/VBHa4cqTK0o/s1600/180886_10150147868320797_308812455796_8496253_8102268_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qe0Mb4OWbgc/TuOw_Qbq6xI/AAAAAAAAAz8/VBHa4cqTK0o/s400/180886_10150147868320797_308812455796_8496253_8102268_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="fbPhotoCaptionText">This photograph belongs to Melissa Macchione. <br /> Unauthorized use is prohibited. If you have any questions please contact the administrator.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Beets (with tops-optional), scrubbed and cut into pieces</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Carrots</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Apples</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 stalks celery</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 wedge of lemon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-2 inches of fresh ginger root</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Milk Thistle (optional) </div>
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Considerations</span><br />
Every<i><span style="font-weight: bold;">body</span></i> is different. Some people find Beet juice (especially when the tops are juiced) to be very powerful with sometimes uncomfortable detoxifying effects (dizziness, mood swings, fatigue). This is common as toxins are being eliminated from your body. Slowly increase the amount of beets from ½-1 medium size beet to 1-2 whole when making your juice. Be sure to drink plenty of water as well to help the toxins leave your body. <br />
<br />
When eating red beets you may notice a red color to your urine or stools. Don’t be alarmed it’s just the red colour, <span style="font-weight: bold;">betacyanin<span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span>, from the beets.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Tip:</span><br />
Save the green leafy tops as they can be cooked like swiss chard, rapini <i>(see picture below)</i>, spinach or similar dark leafy greens. Beet tops are rich in beta-carotene, folic acid, chlorophyll, potassium, vitamin C, and iron.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Recipe: Sautéed Greens</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ms_daJdIiIQ/TuOzC1hZX8I/AAAAAAAAA0E/oPVhdMldAa8/s1600/26141_418739095796_308812455796_5640302_7879819_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ms_daJdIiIQ/TuOzC1hZX8I/AAAAAAAAA0E/oPVhdMldAa8/s400/26141_418739095796_308812455796_5640302_7879819_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="fbPhotoCaptionText">This photograph belongs to Melissa Macchione. <br /> Unauthorized use is prohibited. If you have any questions please contact the administrator.</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 bunch dark leafy greens washed (choose 1 or more of the following: rapini, beet tops, swiss chard, dandelion, spinach, black kale)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2-3 large garlic cloves sliced or whole</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp dried red chili pepper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Salt and pepper to taste</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1) Steam greens until tender in vegetable steamer</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2) Heat oil in medium sauté pan</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3) Add garlic and sauté until tender</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4) Add greens and toss</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5) Add chili, salt and freshly ground pepper; toss. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6) Sauté until greens are nicely coated with the oil and spices.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7) Serve with fresh artisan bread. Yum-oh!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>The information presented here is not intended to replace
professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection
and dosage.</i> </div>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-22126241292099135692011-11-24T21:57:00.002-05:002011-11-24T22:09:54.663-05:00All Aboard the Gluten-free Bandwagon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aNJbEX9j7t4/Ts8Aczs3GcI/AAAAAAAAAzE/L4-GhgcBbzI/s1600/4231719077_6e7e68c3e0_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aNJbEX9j7t4/Ts8Aczs3GcI/AAAAAAAAAzE/L4-GhgcBbzI/s400/4231719077_6e7e68c3e0_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-weight: normal;">This post is inspired by Beauty FIT Beast's 5 for 15 Challenge. You can view my posts for the challenge <a href="http://beautyfitbeast.com/category/challenge/5for15/">here</a>. Participants have cut out gluten, sugar, fake sugar, alcohol and preservatives. As the Nutrition Specialist for the challenge and for <a href="http://beautyfitbeast.com/">Beauty FIT Beast </a>its my responsibility to inform and inspire participants during their 15-day challenge. This week it's all about gluten. </span></b><br />
<br />
<b>What is Gluten?</b><br />
<br />
Gluten is a special type of
protein that is commonly found in rye, wheat and barely. Therefore, it
is found in most types of packaged foods, cereals, energy bars and in
many types of bread. Not all foods from the grain family contain gluten.
Examples of grains that do not have gluten include <b>brown rice, wild rice, corn, buckwheat, millet, amaranth, quinoa</b> and<b> oats. </b><b></b><br />
<b><br /> </b><br />
For
people with celiac disease (an autoimmune disorder that causes damage
to the small intestine) cutting gluten can relieve a host of symptoms,
including bloating, cramps, nausea, anemia, irritability and depression.
But many other people who haven't been diagnosed with the intolerance
are jumping on the gluten-free bandwagon.<br />
<br />
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
Here's why...</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bm5alWbJFUQ/Ts8As1tos4I/AAAAAAAAAzM/6rxLiHLujNM/s1600/goaheaditsglutenfree1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bm5alWbJFUQ/Ts8As1tos4I/AAAAAAAAAzM/6rxLiHLujNM/s320/goaheaditsglutenfree1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tip: Try millet flour as a wheat flour substitute when baking. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>Gluten-free Grains and their Benefits </b><br />
<br />
<b>Brown Rice and Wild Rice: </b>High
levels of B Vitamins and fiber can be found in both brown and wild
rice. Brown rice products can be easily found not just in health food
stores but major grocery stores as well. You will find a variety of
pastas, breads, tortillas and chips all made with brown rice. <b>My Favourite:</b><a data-mce-href="http://www.shashabread.com/online_retail/shasha_products/bio-bud/brown_rice" href="http://www.shashabread.com/online_retail/shasha_products/bio-bud/brown_rice"> Brown Rice Bio-Buds by: Sha Sha Bread Co</a>. <b></b><br />
<b><br /> </b><br />
<b>Corn:</b>
Shocking, I know. Not all corn has been converted to ethanol. Not only
can you eat corn, but you can eat anything made from corn flour. <b>Tip:</b> Buy Certified Organic corn and corn products as corn crops are generally GMO and sprayed heavily with pesticides.<br />
<br />
<b>Buckwheat:</b>
Despite the name, buckwheat does not contain wheat. Buckwheat contains
all 8 essential amino acids making it a complete protein. Good source of
calcium, B Vitamins, iron and fiber. <b>My Favourite:</b> <a data-mce-href="http://www.edenfoods.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=108300" href="http://www.edenfoods.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=108300">Buckwheat Soba Noodles by: Eden Foods </a><br />
<br />
<b>Millet:</b>
Considered one of the first cultivated grains, millet is a great source
of magnesium, potassium, phosphorous and B-complex vitamins. <b>My Favourite:</b><a data-mce-href="http://www.naturespath.com/products/cold-cereals/millet-puffs" href="http://www.naturespath.com/products/cold-cereals/millet-puffs"> Millet Puffs by: Natures Path</a><br />
<br />
<b>Amaranth: </b>High
in protein, Vitamin C, calcium and iron. Great source of fiber.
Gluten-free. High level of lysine, an essential amino acid. <b>I like:</b> <a data-mce-href="http://www.bulkbarn.ca/en-ca/products.html?product=1591&search=amaranth" href="http://www.bulkbarn.ca/en-ca/products.html?product=1591&search=amaranth">Organic Amaranth Flour from: Bulk Barn</a> for baking as well as Millet Flour.<br />
<br />
<b>Quinoa:</b>
This is a nutty, rice-like grain from South America that can be used as
a substitute side for rice, couscous and pasta. Quinoa contains all 8
essential amino acids making it a complete protein. Rich in iron,
calcium and phosphorous. <b>TIP:</b> Instead of water, cook quinoa in chicken, beef or vegetable stock for added flavour.<br />
<br />
<b>Oats: </b>There
has been some debate as to whether people with the digestive
intolerance can eat oats. Research in this area continues. What I know
is that oats are delicious and insanely nutritious. Oats are known to
lower bad cholesterol, are mildly laxative and contain excellent levels
of protein, B vitamins and minerals. <b>My NEW Favourite:</b> <a data-mce-href="http://mysmartfoods.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=89&Itemid=159" href="http://mysmartfoods.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=89&Itemid=159">Cavena- Naked Oats by: Wedge Farms </a><br />
<br />
<b>Top 5 Benefits of going Gluten-free</b><br />
<br />
<b>1)</b> Weight loss as sugar and fat intake is drastically reduced.<br />
<br />
<b>2)</b> Increase in energy levels, lower bad cholesterol levels and even assist the body’s digestive processes.<br />
<br />
<b>3)</b> Eliminate symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and excessive gas.<br />
<br />
<b>4)</b> Decrease congestion, sinus and skin problems.<br />
<br />
<b>5)</b>
Since consuming processed foods will be virtually eliminated and
replaced with fresh whole foods, overall health and well-being sky
rockets!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DTiImjrHv10/Ts8BExnAN7I/AAAAAAAAAzU/QdewV6meyZQ/s400/Savory-Grain-free-Crackers-GlutenFreeGodess.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="300" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Savory Grain-free Crackers by: Gluten-free Goddess </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can find many gluten-free recipes on-line. For the BEST source for
delicious, inspiring gluten-free recipes visit Karina, The Gluten-free
Goddess’ blog: <a data-mce-href="http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/" href="http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/">http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/</a> </div>
<br />
<i>The information presented here is not intended to replace
professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection
and dosage.</i> <span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-9984843384020796692011-11-20T17:53:00.002-05:002011-11-20T18:38:54.479-05:00Top 5 Immune Boosters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Whf_GWrf0M/Trb30NM3s9I/AAAAAAAAAxE/acYvh5DXu9Y/s1600/prevent-common-cold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Whf_GWrf0M/Trb30NM3s9I/AAAAAAAAAxE/acYvh5DXu9Y/s320/prevent-common-cold.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The furnaces are on, the heavy sweaters are out and today we attended The Toronto Santa Claus Parade. We have been very lucky here in Toronto with warm, sunny weather but the coughing kids on the subway were a reminder that cold and flu season is upon us! Greaaaat.<br />
<br />
Did you know? 80% of the body’s
immunity lies within the digestive system. Therefore proper food choices
and supplementation is of utmost importance now more than ever. <br />
<br />
Staying away from refined and processed foods will help your immunity,
but there are certain foods and things you can do to be sure to add into your daily life to build a strong immune system.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Here my Top 5 Immune Boosters:</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CNrCEv7poMw/TsmCaLjoIYI/AAAAAAAAAyo/BmS3oHhYUyA/s1600/bigstockphoto_citrus_fruits_167362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CNrCEv7poMw/TsmCaLjoIYI/AAAAAAAAAyo/BmS3oHhYUyA/s320/bigstockphoto_citrus_fruits_167362.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<b>ACE </b><br />
<b> </b> <br />
<b>A</b> - Vitamin A reduces the severity and occurrence of colds. It can be found in pumpkin, sweet
potato, carrots, kale, and spinach all of which are in season right now.<br />
<b>C</b> - The most popular immune booster is vitamin C, which enhances
immune cell activity and can be found in guava, kiwi, and citrus
fruits.<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>E</b> - This important antioxidant and immune booster doesn't get as much press
as vitamin C, yet it's important to a healthy immune system.
Vitamin E stimulates the production of natural killer cells, those that
seek out and destroy germs and cancer cells. Vitamin E enhances the
production of B-cells, the immune cells that produce antibodies that
destroy bacteria.Vitamin E can be found naturally in nuts, seeds and whole grains. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Zinc</b><br />
Zinc is Vitamin C’s partner in crime also boosting immune cells
while reducing the duration and severity of the common cold. Zinc rich foods
include garbanzo and lima beans along with green peas.<br />
<br />
<b>CoQ10 (Co Enzyme Q10) </b><br />
One immunity underdog is CoQ10, which all of our body’s cells need, and
although we can make CoQ10 in the presence of a healthy diet, unhealthy
diets zap this nutrient out just when we need it most. Good thing CoQ10
can also be found in nuts and broccoli. Aiming to get a good source of
these nutrients daily during cold and flu season, along with a healthy
balanced diet, will give your immune system the strength it needs- and
can help you save on tissues too.<br />
<br />
<b>Exercise </b><br />
<pre style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://stephaniejoanne.com/">Stephanie Joanne</a> seasoned health and fitness entrepreneur says, <i style="font-family: inherit;">Exercise will reduce those symptoms linked </i></span></pre>
<pre style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>to a weak immune like stress, poor diet, sleep etc. It also increases production of bacteria fighting cells! </i></span></pre>
<pre style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Keeping our immune systems functioning better with moderate exercise.</span> </i>But warns us that, <i>Too much </i></span></pre>
<pre style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>however (over training) can do the reverse. </i></span></pre>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qb6-GP_dA00/TsmEsUFZncI/AAAAAAAAAyw/r9vTLvs3kEs/s1600/jennreformer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qb6-GP_dA00/TsmEsUFZncI/AAAAAAAAAyw/r9vTLvs3kEs/s400/jennreformer.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b>Meditation </b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=hp#%21/pages/Sarah-Ai-linns-Max-Meditation/159332070807000">Ai-Linn Chua Henderson</a> Natural Healing Practitioner and Teacher at <a href="http://www.mmscanadianhq.com/certified-teachers/">The Modern Mystery School </a>says, <i><span style="font-size: small;">The practice of meditation helps to relieve stress my helping to relax the physical and mental body. Research has shown that just 15 minutes of meditation a day is equivalent to 4 hours of sleep! By having a regular meditation practice the individual will notice a decreased stress response to normal everyday stressors and a much clearer out look on life and improved mental function. </span></i><span style="font-size: small;">Follow Ai-Linn's guide to easy, stress-free meditation <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/08/meditation-made-easy-10-steps-to.html">here</a>. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<i>The information presented here is not intended to replace
professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection
and dosage.</i> <span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<b> </b>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-13377594087394127272011-11-12T09:57:00.001-05:002011-11-12T10:11:02.758-05:00Top 5 Healthy Sugar Substitutes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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</div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7d5jmJlWLyE/Tr6Dnq8oEuI/AAAAAAAAAx4/TqOCfKp4eUk/s1600/tumblr_lk0g99CRXV1qeg2tbo1_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7d5jmJlWLyE/Tr6Dnq8oEuI/AAAAAAAAAx4/TqOCfKp4eUk/s400/tumblr_lk0g99CRXV1qeg2tbo1_400.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
This post is inspired by the challenge I am about to embark with a group of individuals, some who I know and some who I hope to get to know a bit better. If you've been living under a rock and haven't heard of <a href="http://beautyfitbeast.com/">Beauty FIT Beast</a>'s 15-day Challenge here's what it's all about.<br />
<br />
For 15 days participants will give up the following 5: Gluten, Sugar, Artificial Sweeteners, Processed Foods and Alcohol (Cigarettes as well, if you smoke) and whatever else they want to give up (example: I am giving up coffee) or do something to enhance your health (example: I promise to sweat everyday). For more information on this <i><b>free</b></i> challenge and the professionals leading the challenge (I am one of them) simply follow this <a href="http://beautyfitbeast.com/2011/11/stephanie-joanne-challenge-1/">link</a> and sign-up. <br />
<br />
One of the most challenging things to give up is sugar. As most of us know, sugar is found naturally in fresh fruit and vegetables. This is the most clean and natural source of sugar. Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals needed for us to maintain optimum health.<br />
<br />
<br />
There are five other healthy sugar substitutes that are clean, tasty and lower on the glycemic-index when compared to refined sugar and have health benefits. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQ5iBRgdfSU/Tr6EcHlViQI/AAAAAAAAAyA/syprnXm68Vg/s1600/Stevia_Rebaudiana_Extract.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zQ5iBRgdfSU/Tr6EcHlViQI/AAAAAAAAAyA/syprnXm68Vg/s320/Stevia_Rebaudiana_Extract.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stevia </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Stevia is believed to have anti-bacterial, anti-septic, anti-microbial,
anti-oxidant, anti-glycemic, and anti-hypertensive properties which may
help with hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, chronic
fatigue, indigestion, upset stomach, heartburn, weight loss cold and
flu and candidiasis. It may
also improve energy levels, strengthen immune system, stimulate mental
activity, and may also help in withdrawl from tobacco and alcohol
addiction.
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDMj52co7LI/Tr6EmrDr8RI/AAAAAAAAAyI/zJ9nCBkiWbs/s1600/honey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDMj52co7LI/Tr6EmrDr8RI/AAAAAAAAAyI/zJ9nCBkiWbs/s320/honey.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Honey contains a variety of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which
act as antioxidants, eliminating free radicals. Darker honeys have higher antioxidant content than lighter
honeys.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SNLpQYJsYU/Tr6EvRuzjfI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/cSQn4BCWgMU/s1600/syrup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SNLpQYJsYU/Tr6EvRuzjfI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/cSQn4BCWgMU/s320/syrup2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% Pure Maple Syrup </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Maple syrup is an excellent source of manganese and zinc. Zinc and manganese are important allies in the immune system. Manganese is an essential co-factor in a number of enzymes important in energy production and both act as antioxidant defenses. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvUiT0_-gE8/Tr6FDI7S8bI/AAAAAAAAAyY/u0BT0VvP4DM/s1600/agave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvUiT0_-gE8/Tr6FDI7S8bI/AAAAAAAAAyY/u0BT0VvP4DM/s1600/agave.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Agave Nectar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="space02"><span class="space02">Agave nectar's sweetness comes primarily from a complex form of fructose
called inulin. Fructose is the sugar that occurs naturally in fruits and
vegetables. The carbohydrate in agave nectar has a low glycemic index,
which provides sweetness without the <i>sugar rush</i> and blood sugar spike caused by refined sugars.</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6vkqefT83k/Tr6FaTlLtTI/AAAAAAAAAyg/5yNH09ppNEc/s1600/fruit-dried-dates-deglett.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6vkqefT83k/Tr6FaTlLtTI/AAAAAAAAAyg/5yNH09ppNEc/s320/fruit-dried-dates-deglett.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dates</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Dates are an excellent source of dietary fiber which prevents dietary LDL cholesterol absorption
in
the gut. It
is also a good bulk laxative keeping you regular.<br />
<br />
<i>The information presented here is not intended to replace
professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection
and dosage.</i> <br />
<br />Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-3019215932373442382011-11-03T11:15:00.001-04:002011-11-03T11:40:19.655-04:00Sports Nutrition: Post-Workout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlQbq08mlWU/TrKvkrojvsI/AAAAAAAAAw0/GJ4--W2Iy5M/s1600/MyPro-SJ2-2T.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XlQbq08mlWU/TrKvkrojvsI/AAAAAAAAAw0/GJ4--W2Iy5M/s400/MyPro-SJ2-2T.jpg" width="307" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">The goal of the post-workout meal is to quickly and
efficiently refuel the muscles and
provide them with the raw materials they need to rebuild themselves to
grow. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">There are two anabolic windows in which you should be
feeding your body. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"><b>Post-Workout Window #1</b>
<i>(within 45 minutes of completing workout – however the sooner you refuel
the better) </i>– During this window a liquid source is ideal because it can be
processed and utilized by the body quicker. This is especially recommended for
people with an underactive digestive system. A high quality whey protein or plant protein powder. One which
includes BCAAs and Glutamine will fit the bill as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"><b>Post-Workout Window #2</b> <i>(within 90 minutes to 2 hours of
completing workout)</i> – During this window you are fuelling your body with food
sources. The meal should be heavy on protein and complex carbohydrates. While
protein builds muscles the carbohydrates spike your insulin levels providing
the body with a transport system for the nutrients to reach the muscle cells.
For women a <i>minimum</i> 20 grams of
protein is recommended and for men a <i>minimum</i>
of 30 grams of protein is recommended. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Gaining mass?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">If your goal is to gain mass your post-workout meal should
be approximately 15-25% of your daily caloric intake. For example: If your diet
calls for 3000kcal/day, your post-workout meal should be 450-750kcal. Don’t be shy, eat!</span></div>
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<i>The information presented here is not intended to replace
professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection
and dosage.</i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-9080355618559468462011-11-03T10:46:00.004-04:002011-12-10T14:57:53.981-05:00Sports Nutrition: Pre-workout<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s61Qh-8Q5Zc/TrKpqnGdfEI/AAAAAAAAAws/xUsB2c-ugjE/s1600/pm_almonds21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s61Qh-8Q5Zc/TrKpqnGdfEI/AAAAAAAAAws/xUsB2c-ugjE/s320/pm_almonds21.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<style>
</style><span style="font-size: small;">What you eat and when you eat it can increase or decrease
the effectiveness of your workout. Recovery, anabolism and results depend on
two key meals: Pre-workout and Post-workout.</span>
</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pre-Workout
Nutrition</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Your pre-workout meal is the second most important meal second
to only the post-workout meal. The goal of this meal is to prepare the body
from the <i>stress </i>it is about to
endure. The pre-workout meal isn’t much different from one of your normal
meals. It should be focused on protein and complex carbohydrates. It is
important that both these macronutrients be present and consumed 60-90 minutes
before exercise. Eating too close to exercise doesn’t give the body enough time
to digest and make the nutrients available to the body during exercise. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>So what do I eat?</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Complex
Carbohydrates </b></span><span style="font-size: small;">in your pre-workout meal will help ensure you have adequate
energy levels for your workout. </span></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bananas</b>
are packed with potassium which aids in maintaining proper nerve and muscle
function. Your body doesn’t store potassium for long periods of time therefore
during an intense workout your potassium levels will drop. Pair the banana with
a handful of raw <b>almonds</b> and <b>yogurt</b> and you have yourself a quick,
complete and easy pre-workout meal. </span></div>
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<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;">A bowl of <b>oatmeal</b> is another great choice. Oats are full of fiber and are low
on the glycemic index meaning the carbohydrates are released into your
bloodstream gradually, keeping your energy levels constant during your workout.
Oats also contain B vitamins which lower stress, increase energy and convert
carbohydrates into energy. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A study led by the University of Exeter, published in 2009 in the
"Journal of App</span>lied Physiology," reported that <b>beet juice</b> may have the
most benefits when it comes to improving athletic stamina. Not only has
beet juice been found to help boost athletic performance, but the
vegetable has also been linked to helping those with lung and heart
problems and aiding in general overall health.
</span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Nitrates </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><section class="section">
</section></span>
<div class="description ">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">
The
Exeter-led study pointed to the benefits of nitrates, concluding that
they boost a cyclists's endurance by 16 percent. Nitrates are helpful to
athletes because they quickly bring oxygen to muscles, essentially
making the hard efforts easier. Consider a glass of beet juice as part of your pre-workout</span><span style="font-size: small;"> meal. </span></div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<i><b>Check out <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/11/sports-nutrition-post-workout.html">Sports Nutrition: Post-Workout </a>for what, when and how much to eat after your workout.</b> </i><br />
<br />
<i>The information presented here is not intended to replace
professional medical care when needed. Consult a qualified healthcare
practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy choice, medicine selection
and dosage.</i>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-39950213165496158642011-11-02T10:49:00.011-04:002011-11-02T11:08:52.640-04:00Top 5 Nutrition Myths<style>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here are the most common nutritional myths I am asked on a
daily bases. Let’s clear it up once and for all<b>, </b>shall we? </span><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Myth #1: All
fats are bad.</b>
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">We
all need fat in our diets as they help us absorb certain nutrients.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Fats make
up an important part of every cell membrane in our body and help with
proper nerve function, among other things.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Some
fats are good for us and of course some are bad for our health. The key is
to replace bad fats (saturated, hydrogenated and trans) with good fats
(mono- and polyunsaturated).</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Good
fats include: Olive oil, flax oil, fatty fish like salmon and sardines,
avocados, raw nuts and seeds, natural nut butters, legumes, leafy green
vegetables and lean cuts of meat.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">25 to
30 percent of your daily diet should come from healthy fats.</span><br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
</ul>
</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<b>Myth #2: Avoid carbohydrates to lose
weight.<br />
</b></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Severely
limiting carbohydrates will result in the loss of muscle and water along
with only a small amount of fat.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">It is
important to limit the amount of carbohydrates in your diet that come from
simple carbohydrates (refined flour and sugar).</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Cutting
carbohydrates out completely deprives your body from essential nutrients
found in wholesome carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, legumes and
whole grains. These are called, complex carbohydrates.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Allow
45 to 50 percent of your diet to come from complex carbohydrate sources
(half of those from vegetables). Good fat should make up 25 to 30 percent
of your daily diet, and 15 percent to 20 percent from lean animal and
plant protein.</span></div>
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</ul>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
<br />
<b>Myth #3: To lose weight you must follow
a very low-calorie diet.<br />
</b></span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Eating
too few calories puts your body in starvation mode. This actually does the
opposite of what you are trying to achieve by slowing down the rate at
which you burn calories.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">A
better approach is to eat smaller, more frequent meals and snacks.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">A
slower, more gradual weight loss will lead to loss of body fat without
risking loss of too much muscle tissue and in the long run is easier to
manage.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Aim
for a healthy weight loss of 1-2 pounds a week.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Try
cutting your total daily calories by just 500kcal a day for a 1-2 pounds
loss per week.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">To
maximize fat loss and help keep your blood sugar levels stable and metabolism
operating at optimum speed aim to eat every 3-4 hours.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The
more muscle mass you have, the faster your metabolism works and the more
fat you will burn. Therefore
incorporate weight training into your exercise regime along with a healthy
balanced diet.</span></div>
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</ul>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Myth #4: Eating eggs raises your cholesterol levels</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Not necessarily. Yes, eggs are high in cholesterol,
but the link between naturally occurring cholesterol and your cholesterol
levels isn't clear-cut.</span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The liver produces 80 per cent of the cholesterol
that's in your body. The rest comes from the food you eat, mainly from foods
high in saturated fat and trans fat (deep fried foods, pastries, chips, JUNK!). </span></div>
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</ul>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Myth #5: Only eat when you're hungry</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Your body works best when it's receiving a steady
supply of fuel. The fuel in this case is food.</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Eating regularly helps your body regulate blood-sugar
levels and keeps your body burning calories instead of hoarding them and saving
them as fat. </span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">
</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">If you go long periods without food your blood sugar
levels fall, causing you to crave a quick sugar fix. Your body wants <i>glucose</i> but more than often people will
translate that to needing sugar, as in sweets. Feed your body something
nutritious. It will give you the spike of energy it craves and will keep you
fuller for longer. </span></div>
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</ul>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Do you have a nutritional myth you would like
cleared up? Leave it below and I will answer it for you!</b></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The information presented here is
not intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a
qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy
choice, medicine selection and dosage</span>. </i></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-69620258859548257882011-11-01T15:03:00.002-04:002011-11-02T11:00:38.705-04:005 Stress-free Stress Busters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l9EkNHvcxdA/TrA-B7GJBxI/AAAAAAAAAu8/Ad9U1qHHzq8/s1600/stress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l9EkNHvcxdA/TrA-B7GJBxI/AAAAAAAAAu8/Ad9U1qHHzq8/s400/stress.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">Lately I have been feeling rather
stressed. Blame it on the female cycle, the full moon, unfulfilled
expectations, financial difficulties, starting a new job…argh, I can go
on forever these days. Feeling this way I thought it would be a good
idea to take some of my own advice. Gee, what a thought. Interestingly
enough I wrote a blog post on the effects of stress on the Nervous
System last year right around this time. Strange. But first a recap of
last year’s blog post <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/search?q=meditation">Supporting your Nervous System</a>. What stress <i>actually</i> does to our bodies. </span>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">During stressful events, our adrenal
glands release adrenaline, a hormone which activates our body’s defense
mechanisms causing our hearts to pound, blood pressure to rise, muscles
to tense, and the pupils of our eyes to dilate. The Nervous System is
the master control center in the body. It is designed to allow rapid
internal communication by detecting and responding to constant changes
inside and outside the body. None of our body systems (Digestive,
Cardiovascular, Immune, Lymphatic.etc) are capable of functioning alone
as they all work together to maintain <i>homeostasis</i> (balance).
The Nervous System is the chief of all the systems and that is the exact
reason why we need to take care of this important body system.</span><br />
<br />
<b>Why we must reduce stress</b><br />
Reducing stress also reduces your risk for heart disease, the number
one killer of American women, and certain types of cancer. Many women
experience PMS and menopausal symptoms will find the severity of these
symptoms improved dramatically, once reduced stress level is achieved.
Untreated stress leads many people to depression, anxiety, headaches,
and a host of other complaints, making reduction of stress important
factor in improving your total health.<br />
<br />
<b>So where do we start?</b> 5 Stress-free Stress Busters<br />
<div>
<br />
<b>Exercise</b><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nnSnmY_9K-0/TrBASsCOOVI/AAAAAAAAAvU/7UjbC4huwLM/s1600/Screen-shot-2011-08-16-at-10.41.23-PM-218x300.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nnSnmY_9K-0/TrBASsCOOVI/AAAAAAAAAvU/7UjbC4huwLM/s400/Screen-shot-2011-08-16-at-10.41.23-PM-218x300.png" width="290" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;">Physical exercise is one of the most effective ways of relieving stress.</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">
It improves blood flow to the brain and causes the body to release
endorphins. Even just 7 minutes of intense exercise can get these little
guys going and having you feel more energized and mentally relaxed. <a href="http://beautyfitbeast.com/2011/11/">Beauty FIT Beast</a> is an excellent source for fresh, new exercises to surely get the blood pumping.</span> </span><br />
<br />
<b>Keep a Journal</b><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z38Z9ARA5z0/TrA_NOKmeUI/AAAAAAAAAvE/AfxPAQHfB2s/s1600/6a00d83452d45869e20120a4e4b3ea970b-800wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z38Z9ARA5z0/TrA_NOKmeUI/AAAAAAAAAvE/AfxPAQHfB2s/s400/6a00d83452d45869e20120a4e4b3ea970b-800wi.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">Reflect on your day, your emotions,
and your personal goals. Include everything that stresses you, so you
can start to recognize patterns and take appropriate action. Writing is
also a great way to relax and put things into perspective.</span><br />
<br />
<b>Get Organized</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AtuSk8C1HNI/TrA_yMgpQ4I/AAAAAAAAAvM/cGmhvkvJcG4/s1600/organized-folder-system-med.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AtuSk8C1HNI/TrA_yMgpQ4I/AAAAAAAAAvM/cGmhvkvJcG4/s400/organized-folder-system-med.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Set aside a place for bills,
paperwork, and important documents. Store items you use most often in
accessible places. I purchased some baskets from the dollar store to
keep these loose papers in and out of the way. Spending five minutes
straightening your office, purse/brief case or main living area at the
end or beginning of your day will not only make your work more
productive but also bring your mind to a sense of clarity. Keep a
long-range calendar and a short-range to-do list. Check off items as you
finish them for a sense of accomplishment. </span><br />
<br />
<b>Meditate</b><br />
<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FVZVkHpwPl4/TrBA16jWs4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/QK59bKaQ5Js/s1600/mindful-leaf.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FVZVkHpwPl4/TrBA16jWs4I/AAAAAAAAAvc/QK59bKaQ5Js/s400/mindful-leaf.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
Ai-Linn Chua Henderson, A Natural Healing Practitioner says, <i>When
we become aware of our thoughts, we are then able to see certain things
about the way we make choices in our lives, or the way we react to
things, and this awareness is powerful. Because this awareness gives us
the power to change the thought patterns that hold us back, and allow us
to consciously create new ways of thinking and patterning. </i>Follow her easy meditation to help you de-stress, <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/08/meditation-made-easy-10-steps-to.html">Meditation Made Easy: 10 Steps to finding your Inner Self. </a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>and of course……</b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Proper Nutrition</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dlNavleT7Gg/TrBBvAOB2NI/AAAAAAAAAvk/PzBlnYLbtG0/s1600/DSC_6796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dlNavleT7Gg/TrBBvAOB2NI/AAAAAAAAAvk/PzBlnYLbtG0/s400/DSC_6796.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This photograph belongs to Melissa Macchione.
Unauthorized use is prohibited. </i> </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Eat breakfast</b> within 1 hour of waking to <i>break the fast</i>
will give your body the much needed glucose found in your food to give
you energy. Lack of energy equals lack of motivation, attention and
mood. Start off the day on the right foot. Try my <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/10/breakfast-why-is-it-so-important.html">Morning Glory Oatmeal</a> which is packed with feel good ingredients such as whole grains, blueberries, nuts and seeds. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Small more frequent meals – </b>You want to avoid drops in your blood sugar levels. Eating small more frequent meals, every 3-4 hours, will help control blood sugar levels resulting in an overall better mood. When drops in blood sugar levels happen we tend to become more on edge and depressed. Try some of <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/10/my-favourite-stress-busting-snacks.html">My Favourite Stress Busting Snacks </a>in between meals to avoid the icky lows. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Reduce or Eliminate Caffeine Intake</b> – Avoid going for a coffee mid-afternoon for the increase in energy, instead go for a <a href="http://mywholesomehome.blogspot.com/2011/10/my-favourite-stress-busting-snacks.html">Stress Busting Snack</a>.
Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system. Heavy daily caffeine
use (4 to 7 cups of coffee per day) can cause: insomnia, nervousness,
restlessness, irritability, nausea or other gastrointestinal problems,
fast or irregular heartbeat, muscle tremors, headaches and/or anxiety.
If you are missing the caffeine go for a green tea. Yes, green tea
contains caffeine however the benefits of green tea out weigh the
negatives when compared to coffee.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Eat Consciously</b> to elaborate on yesterday’s post, <a href="http://beautyfitbeast.com/2011/10/conscious-eating/">Conscious Eating</a>, here are a few tips to help you eat mindfully.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">1) When preparing your meal enjoy yourself. Put on your favourite
music, have a clean and today work space, take pictures of your
creations and have fun doing it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">2) When sitting down the meal you just prepared with love really <i>look</i> at the food.Recite in your mind or out loud what it is you are about to eat.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">3) Eat slowly. As hungry as you may be and as delicious as the food is <i>slow down! </i>Twenty minutes is the time it should take to consume your meal. Tip: put your fork/spoon/hands down in-between bites.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The information presented here is
not intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a
qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy
choice, medicine selection and dosage</span>. </i></span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-36571894531557042922011-10-31T10:34:00.002-04:002011-11-02T11:00:11.960-04:00Consious Eating: Should I or shouldn't I?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-SGgrEYbYU/Tq6xWkA16wI/AAAAAAAAAuo/Dz_PSPwlo0Q/s1600/2011-08-conscious-eating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="365" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-SGgrEYbYU/Tq6xWkA16wI/AAAAAAAAAuo/Dz_PSPwlo0Q/s400/2011-08-conscious-eating.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
The foods you eat affect all aspects of your life. If you listen to
your body, it will give signals as to the best nutritional choices for
you. Notice how certain foods affect you.
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Do certain foods affect the quality of your sleep?<br />
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Are you waking up in the middle of the night?<br />
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Are you having trouble falling asleep?<br />
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Do your food choices affect how you feel first thing in the morning?<br />
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Do you wake up feeling rested?<br />
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Are your joints stiff?<br />
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Do you have a stuffy nose?<br />
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How do you feel the rest of the day? Physically, Mentally, Emotionally and Spiritually<br />
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How do you feel before, during and after a meal? Energy level before
and after eating, level of hunger, stress level, bloating, gas, fatigue?<br />
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How are your bowel movements: Frequency, quality, ease of elimination?<br />
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Practicing conscious eating is one of the very first things I teach
my clients and the biggest challenge most of them face. I do this by
asking them to keep a <i>Food and Mood Journal</i>. In your <i>Food and Mood Journal</i>
use the questions above and track what foods you are eating, when you
are eating them and where you are eating them (in your car, at the
table, over the sink). Before you eat that double cheeseburger, again,
you can look back a few days before when you ate the same thing and see
how you felt before, during and after the meal. You may be surprised to
see similarities of how you felt before eating it. Chances are if you
experienced indigestion, fatigue, emotional instability, constipation
after eating the burger you will probably experience the same symptoms
again.<br />
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Take the time to bring awareness to your food choices and notice how
they are affecting you as a whole. You may be surprised to find out some
of the foods, which are considered healthy, may not be for you. In
addition, you may notice you are eating too many of the foods or shall I
say, non-foods, that are satisfying while you are eating them but in
the end give you that <i>yuck</i> feeling. Your conscious eating will
bring insight on your choices, which than will bring you a sense of
clarity, well-being and a balance of the body, mind, and spirit.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The information presented here is
not intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a
qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy
choice, medicine selection and dosage. </i></span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-2640938450503305392011-10-27T17:52:00.004-04:002011-10-31T10:40:40.323-04:005 Guilt-Free Halloween Treats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4pSqIwYbrNA/TqnR_YBpNeI/AAAAAAAAAug/RoCD-It8-WI/s1600/100_8208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4pSqIwYbrNA/TqnR_YBpNeI/AAAAAAAAAug/RoCD-It8-WI/s320/100_8208.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Halloween is just a few days away. The bowls of candies and
chocolates have already made their way to staff lunchrooms, board rooms
and desks. You’ve been working hard in the gym and you deserve a treat
gosh darnit!<br />
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Here are my 5 favourite guilt-free Halloween (or anytime) treats to
enjoy, without feeling bad, all coming in under 150 calories.<br />
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5) 150 calories – 16 Sour Patch Kids. Also my favourite movie snack,
you’ll gobble up 16 fairly quickly as they are quite small and the
sourness is highly addictive. Have a glass of H2O along with this to
avoid going over board.<br />
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4) 84 calories – 2 Dove Dark Chocolate Promises. You get the benefit
of dark chocolate’s antioxidants all while satisfying that sweet-tooth.<br />
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3) 100 calories – My favourite chocolate, two and a half mini Reese’s
cups (hate to admit I have eaten an entire tray of the big-size one too
many times) or two mini bite-size Snicker’s bars.<br />
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2) 50 calories – Pucker-up for two Hershey’s kisses (plain or almond) or get your tootsie roll on with two mini Tootsie rolls.<br />
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1) 125 calories – Trick-or-Trail Mix. A DIY treat that you can put
together on your own. I make enough for the entire month (you can
prepare weekly if you prefer) that way I always have a healthy treat in
my desk, purse, gym-bag and even in my son’s diaper bag.<br />
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Recipe: Mix 10 raw almonds, 1 tbsp raw sunflower seeds, 1 tbsp raw
pumpkin seeds, 1 tsp cacao nibs, 1 tbsp goji berries and 1 tsp
unsweetened shredded coconut. Bundle them up into individual snack-pack
bags. Delicious, nutritious and guilt-free anytime of year!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The information presented here is
not intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a
qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy
choice, medicine selection and dosage. </i></span>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2174120650475307352.post-79616439420650323802011-10-24T15:50:00.003-04:002011-10-31T10:40:20.678-04:00VIDEO: Tips on Healthy Snacks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/KkZfbVMB2Yc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Trail mix</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Look for a
<span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"></span>healthy mix that includes nuts, seeds and dried fruits; avoid varieties with high-sugar
ingredients such as milk chocolate chips and bad fats such as vegetable oil.
The dried fruit will provide you with healthy sugars for a quick energy boost,
while the seeds and nuts will prevent your insulin level from dropping, giving
you a long sustained energy level. For a healthier<i> sweet</i> alternative include dried fruit, shredded coconut and cacao
nibs. Be sure to include<b> almonds </b>as
well. The monounsaturated fats found in almonds provide energy-boosting
essential fatty acids such as omega-3s and omega-6s. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Recipe in video:</span></b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"> 2 tbsp Raw almonds, 1 tbsp
Raw pumpkin seeds, 1 tbsp Raw sunflowers seeds, 1 tbsp Goji Berries, 1 tbsp
Cacao nibs and 1 tbsp Unsweetened Shredded Coconut. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Yogurt</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">The magnesium in yogurt activates
enzymes that are involved in the metabolism of protein and carbohydrates giving
you an energy kick. This explosive source of energy is best used before
physical activity (example: cardio or weight lifting). Choose plain yogurt over
the fruit bottom/stirred kind as these tend to be packed with sugar. Missing
the fruit? Add your own! I like: 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt, ½ cup fresh
raspberries, my trail mix (see above recipe) and a drizzle of agave nectar.
Yum!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">Energy bars</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;">There are many <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">types of
energy bars</span> out there. Some contain mostly protein, whereas others
are composed largely of carbohydrates. For a quick boost in energy choose a bar
that leans more toward carbohydrates, such as <a href="http://www.kashi.com/">Kashi</a> granola bars, <a href="http://www.larabar.com/">Larabar</a> and
<a href="http://myvega.com/">Vega</a> Energy and Vibrancy Bar. Bars are an easy on-the-go snack packed with a
balance of essential nutrients. <br />
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<b>Hummus</b><br />
Hummus is a great source of carbohydrates, <span style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">protein</span>,
fiber, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, calcium, and copper. It
will provide you with a great energy boost all while being low in fat and
calories. Pair it with your favourite raw veggie combo and/or whole grain
cracker or pita. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>The information presented here is
not intended to replace professional medical care when needed. Consult a
qualified healthcare practitioner for disease diagnosis, therapy
choice, medicine selection and dosage. </i></span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div>Melissa Macchionehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06813444159750338814noreply@blogger.com0