Health & weight management thread

[69supersport396]

Wow, lots to think about.

I must be doing something right. I hit, and surpassed losing 70 lbs today. Under 10 lbs to go to hit my first goal. I've been at this for 11 months. Think I've already figured out how to maintain a weight within 3 lbs.

It's warm enough to go swimming once again, so weight loss just got slightly easier for the summer.

[Normagene]

Originally Posted by 69supersport396

Wow, lots to think about.



I must be doing something right. I hit, and surpassed losing 70 lbs today. Under 10 lbs to go to hit my first goal. I've been at this for 11 months. Think I've already figured out how to maintain a weight within 3 lbs.



It's warm enough to go swimming once again, so weight loss just got slightly easier for the summer.

AttaBoy! You must feel soooo much better than you did 11 months ago. It's funny how stuff (junk) tasted so good back then (so we thought) and you quickly realize it's just like a drug addict. I had a donut, years ago, and I remember it tasted really good, but I had this pain in my stomach for hours. It was like this big piece of rock was making its way thru my intestines.

Gotta give props to the Fast Food biz for a great strategy. They knew you can only make a burger taste so good, then what? You SUPER SIZE THE PORTIONS - The FATTER you get the customer, the more they will EAT.

A large fry of yesterday's is A SMALL FRY today! Decades ago a meal was maybe 800-900 calories. Today 3000 PLUS.

I remember reading a college study that asked "are you overweight"? This was about ten years ago. 9 out of 10 responded YES to the 5-10 pounds overweight. Turned out the majority of those 9 were actually 30 or more pounds overweight.

When shown pictures of men and women in bathing suits, the pictures of the people who were in the "ideal" weight category received an UNDERWEIGHT vote. And those that 15-20 pounds overweight were voted as "ideal" or normal weight.

So just like anything in life, we've grown so accustom to seeing fat people, we now perceive them as normal/fit/ideal. And those whom weigh what really is ideal, as skinny/underweight.

I like watching old tv shows, talk shows, game shows etc., and I love to look at the people. It's pretty much the complete opposite of today. Try to see how many fat folks are in the audience is like today trying to see how many thin folks you can find.

I was watching The Dean Martin Show, and they were all thin. Skinny by today's standards. I know I know, life expectancy was less back then, but that's only because heart surgery was new. We have more heart disease today than ever, but we can also treat it better than ever. Back then if you had a heart attack, well not much could be done.

[richard200593]

Originally Posted by 69supersport396

Wow, lots to think about.

I must be doing something right. I hit, and surpassed losing 70 lbs today. Under 10 lbs to go to hit my first goal. I've been at this for 11 months. Think I've already figured out how to maintain a weight within 3 lbs.

It's warm enough to go swimming once again, so weight loss just got slightly easier for the summer.

Great job that's awesome! I just hit 60 pounds lost today it's a great feeling.

[RubyCamaro]

Great job Rick! Keep up the good work. I'm starting to make a little progress again but it is going slowly.

[Normagene]

6 Natural Antibiotics That Fight Superbugs Naturally

Taking antibiotics is like blowing up an atomic bomb in your gut to wipe out everything and anything. It doesn’t differentiate between harmful and beneficial bacteria. It destroys all living organisms in its path unapologetically leaving you with some devastating side effects.

You should know that killing off prized probiotics causes an unpleasant shift in your intestinal flora. This can lead to opportunistic yeasts to spread like wildfire inside your body.

Many symptoms may begin to manifest such as a white coated tongue, ******l yeast infection, toe nail fungus, dandruff, seborrhea dermatitis, tinea versicolor and more.

When the gut is lacking in beneficial bacteria food becomes harder to properly digest, bowel movements become irregular, your body finds it difficult to absorb nutrients and you’ll probably be feeling bloated all the time.

Antibiotics may kill off pathogenic organisms to make you feel better but at the same time it weakens your immune system which leads to more illness, a vicious cycle indeed. Instead of wreaking havoc on your body with damaging prescription drugs, try these wonderfully natural & gentle antibiotic alternatives instead!

Garlic
Do you enjoy the aroma of garlic? Well, did you know that this flavorful little bulbous plant has been cultivated by humans for over 7000 years and has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient times? It is a fascinating herb that has proven itself amongst humans for thousands of generations. However, you must consume garlic in its raw state to experience the full benefits.

High heat can destroy the fragile substances that make garlic one of the best natural antibiotics you could ever obtain. Although there is method you could employ to help preserve the active substances. Chop, slice, crush or mince the garlic and let sit for 20 minutes.

Scientific studies have shown that garlic contains Allium sativum which is effective against preventing and curing the common cold. Amazingly in both World Wars, soldiers used garlic as an antiseptic against gangrene. It has also been shown to be an effective remedy against fungal infections. It is most effective against chest infections & digestive disorders.

Another proven fact about garlic is that it can help cure your bad breath! Add some garlic to your mouthwash to fight off bad breath causing bacteria. Some evidence has even suggested that garlic can kill E. coli and antibiotic resistant superbugs. So what are you waiting for? Make sure you add garlic to your diet.

Manuka Honey
Do you love the taste of honey? Well you’ll be pleased to know that a special type of honey called Manuka honey is actually a potent and natural antibiotic.

Manuka Honey is created when bees feed from the nectar of the Manuka tree found in New Zealand. This honey is special because it contains methylglyoxal which is a major player in its antimicrobial component. Research has suggested that methylglyoxal has a strong relationship with the non-peroxide antibacterial activity (NPA) in manuka honey.

The higher the methylglyoxal, the stronger the NPA. Manuka honey is usually sold with information about the strength of antibacterial property through their trademark UMF (Unique Manuka Factor). Make sure you purchase honey with a high UMF from a trusted and certified seller. Are you still unsure about this sweet & sticky super food?

There is actually some strong and compelling scientific evidence that supports manuka honey in its role as a natural antibiotic. Studies have indicated that manuka honey is effective at treating mild burns when applied directly.

Another study has suggests that manuka honey may be used to prevent gingivitis and reduce buildup of plaque. Participants of that particular study were given a specially made chewable manuka honey gum that could be ingested as well as chewed like gum.

There have even been a few implications that manuka honey may help clear up nasal congestions caused by allergies. However there is much more solid evidence about manuka honey suppressing coughs and calming inflamed membranes.

Hundreds of children were given manuka honey or a synthetic cough suppressant, manuka honey was found to be more effective at soothing the childrens cough and allowing them to sleep peacefully.

Turmeric
Have you ever been interested in using Ayurvedic medicine? Turmeric is an orangey-yellow superstar in Ayurveda. Turmeric is an herbaceous plant that is related to ginger and requires heavy rainfall to thrive. You can have turmeric fresh, dried and ground.

You can consume it or apply it as a paste directly onto your skin. Turmeric has been used traditionally to heal a myriad of diseases, from chicken pox to liver disorders. It is the active compound curcumin found in turmeric that allows people to find relief from this awesome orange herb.

It is also curcumin that gives turmeric its antibiotic effects. Studies have suggested that turmeric can kill bacteria and viruses. A study conducted in 2009 showed promising evidence of turmeric extracts being effective against E. coli, which is known to cause food poisoning.

Another study in the same year showed that turmeric extracts was able to suppress hepatitis B. In 2008 it was found that turmeric could be highly effective against fungal infections especially Candida albicans. Turmeric also helps you to fight off infection by strengthening specific proteins found on your immune cells.

Echinacea
Echinacea is a beautiful flowering herb that has been used for over 400 years by Native Americans. It was especially popular in the 18th and 19th century where many people used it to treat fever, syphilis and malaria. Nowadays Echinacea is successfully used to reinforce the immune system to help reduce symptoms of the common cold.

Herbalist may also prescribe Echinacea as an effective remedy against many fungal infections such as thrush and athletes foot. There has been an interesting study that suggested Echinacea may have exhibited antiviral activity against cold sores cause by the herpes virus. There are also 2 fascinating case studies proving the effectiveness of Echinacea.

The first one involves a woman who developed a horrid staph infection that was worsened by prescribed antibiotics. She decided to add Echinacea drops to her regimen and her symptoms improved miraculously. She got off antibiotics soon after but continued to take Echinacea and the staph infection never returned.

The second case study is of a young woman who suffered with mononucleosis which caused her to always feel depressed and fatigued. Doctors were unable to prescribe any drugs to aid in her battle against mononucleosis. So she decided to take Echinacea drops and after 2 weeks reported overwhelming improvement in her symptoms.

Coconut oil
Have you ever been told coconut oil is bad? Well don’t believe it because people from the Philippines call the coconut palm tree, the ‘tree of life’ as it is treasured for its plant-based fats that provide many benefits including energy. Coconut oil is extracted from the delicious white meat of coconuts.

It is high in saturated fat and rare medium chain triglycerides. It contains lauric acid which our bodies convert into monolaurin which is a potent and natural antibiotic. Monolaurin is also found naturally in breast milk, so if it’s safe for babies then it is definitely safe for us! Research has proven that taking coconut oil regularly is useful for protecting oneself against bacterial infections.

It has also been found that when directly applied coconut oil can fight against skin infections and even acne. So if you are taking antibiotics for your acne, try using coconut oil instead by ingesting it and as a completely natural moisturizer. Another study discovered that caprylic acid and monocaprylin, components found in coconut oil could be a worthy natural alternative for antibiotics in treating bovine mastitis.

Oregano
Did you know that ancient Greek & Roman brides & groom were crowned with fresh oregano as decorative fashion statement? Apparently they recognized oregano for its aroma and used it as a symbol of joy and happiness. In Austria it is traditionally used to treat infections of the intestines, nervous system and respiratory tract. Even the great Hippocrates used oregano as an effective antiseptic.

You may know oregano as an important culinary herb that makes food delicious! But you ought to know that this particular herb also has very powerful antibiotic effects. Oregano contains the chemical components thymol and carvacrol which have been shown to inhibit growth of food-borne pathogens. Researchers have also found that oregano is highly effective against the intestinal infection ‘Giardia Lamblia’; even more effective than the standard prescription drug that is commonly used for Giardia.

Oregano is also useful if you have contracted the common cold and the flu as it has been proven to have antiviral activity. It is recommended that you take antibiotics with food to prevent any nausea that may occur due to the powerful effects.

[richard200593]

Just bought a Fitbit charge hr, thought I could compete in competitions against strangers apparently they have to be on your friends list... So anyone who wants to add me if you have a Fitbit feel free datsundriver87@yahoo.com

[Normagene]

Health News
4 Healthiest Types Of Rice

Rice is eaten all over the world and in almost every culture. It is tasty in hundreds to thousands of culinary dishes, and it can provide a decent dose of vitamins, minerals, and especially carbohydrates.

Whole-grain types of rice are digested slowly and help regulate blood sugar. It is high in fiber and thus is quite filling. Certain kinds of rice are linked with lower disease rates, though white rice does not fall into this category.

Put simply, not all rice is created equal. There are countless varieties of rice, but there are a few main groups. White rice represents the refined grains that are no longer whole. Black rice, red rice, and brown rice are three of the healthiest alternatives to white rice.

Why Is White Rice So Bad?

White rice is the most commonly consumed type, and that is an unfortunate fact. White rice is processed way more than it needs to be, and is considered a refined grain rather than a whole grain. White rice has had its outer layers removed, and those outer layers are where many of the nutrients are stored. This refining causes a loss of: vitamins, fiber, protein, minerals, and antioxidants, among other healthy things.

White rice has seven times less fiber than brown rice does because of this refining process. White rice is sometimes fortified with vitamins, but many argue that synthetic vitamins are not absorbed nearly as well as natural ones.

White rice is associated with a higher risk of Type II Diabetes, among other disease because the carbohydrates can easily convert into sugar and spike up the insulin level in your blood.

In general, it is simply healthier to eat rice that contains whole grains instead of refined ones. Below are three of the healthiest types of rice: black, red, and brown.

Black Rice

Most people haven’t heard of black rice, but it is arguably the healthiest kind out there. It’s high in antioxidants, fiber, protein, iron, calcium, and copper. This type of rice is loaded with anthocyanin, an antioxidant that reduces inflammation, helps prevent heart disease, and helps improve cognitive function. Black rice contains more anthocyanin than red rice.

Black rice reduces the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which lowers your risk of blood clots; clots can lead to life threatening events such as stroke, heart attack, and pulmonary embolism. Black rice can also help regulate cholesterol levels in the body by lowering the bad cholesterol, which further reduces the risk of heart disease. Because it is high in fiber, it promotes a healthy digestive system. This means it may reduce constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and bloating; it lets you feel fuller and thus may help with weight loss; and it reduces toxins in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

In addition to reducing GI tract toxins, it can be effective at detoxifying the liver and other organs due to its antioxidant levels. Studies have shown that consuming whole grains like black rice in place of refined grains like white rice reduces your risk of developing both Type II Diabetes and obesity.

A study in the Journal of Nutrition compared rats that were fed white rice with rats that were fed black rice. Those fed black rice had less radical damage to their cells, less plaque inside their arteries, and fewer toxins in the body overall. They also had less inflammation throughout their bodies, which is considered a sign of good health. Heightened inflammation causes a myriad of health issues over time, including diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, acid reflux, and much more.

Sprouted Rice

If you take a good look around at the health food sections of your local grocery, you’ll likely notice a wide variety of sprouted foods – lentils, nuts and rice.

The process of soaking and sprouting foods is said to increase its nutritional value. For rice, sprouting can help to lower their glycemic index which raise the blood sugar levels in the blood.

A “Journal of Functional Foods” study found that germinating brown rice caused an uptick in levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a compound which may support your mood and heart health.

Sprouted foods such as rice are easier to digest and are quicker to cook since the hard outer shell is softened during the sprouting process. Sprouted rice are easier to digest and are quicker to cook since the hard outer shell is softened during the sprouting process.

Red Rice

Red rice is a whole grain that has a bit of a nutty flavor. It is high in quite a few minerals, including: manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, potassium, calcium, iron, and molybdenum. It also contains fiber, protein, antioxidants, and vitamins. The grains are red because of anthocyanins, antioxidants that have been found to have powerful healing effects within the body; they may even be able to inhibit the growth of tumors. Many of the nutrients in red rice are comparable to those in brown rice, but red rice is much less commonly found because it isn’t grown around the world like brown rice is. While it depends on the subtypes, red rice has as much as ten times as many antioxidants as brown rice.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is the most widely available type that is considered healthy, and is a much better choice than white rice. Compared to white rice, brown rice has more protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Some of the minerals present in brown rice are selenium, iron, and manganese. Selenium helps prevent heart disease and arthritis, iron helps prevent fatigue, and manganese promotes a healthy nervous system.

Brown rice is a whole grain, which means that it promotes healthy digestion and can help reduce overeating. A study in the Journal of Nutrition Research found that people trying to lose weight and body fat were more successful when they consumed only brown rice instead of white rice.

Other Varieties

Jasmine rice is high in magnesium, phosphorus, iron, Vitamin B, fiber, and protein. It is also a healthy alternative to white rice.
Bulgur rice has tons of fiber and protein as well. Compared to white rice, it has far more nutritional value.
Quinoa is not rice, but it is often consumed along with or in place of rice. It’s super high in protein and fiber, and it’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

[Normagene]

10 Worst Foods to Eat Before Bedtime

Good quality sleep is vital for our immune system and general well-being. Insomnia or disturbed sleep can leave you feeling unable to get through the day. For occasional sufferers this can be a mild irritation, and for those frequently not meeting their sleep quota it has a long-term negative impact on physical and mental health.

After a good night’s sleep you should wake-up feeling refreshed. However, many people are unaware that what they are eating before bedtime could be sabotaging their revitalizing sleep.

When we sleep several physiological changes occur in our body: our blood pressure and temperature both drop and our breathing and heart rate slow down. During this time of reduced activity the body performs many restorative and repair functions.

The brain re-stocks the various neurotransmitters it has used up during the day and the immune system has its nightly clean up. New cells are made, old ones are removed and generally the body uses this time to look after itself.

Without this time to calm down and make necessary repairs the body will gradually become more susceptible to illness and we will experience reduced mental clarity. If you have ever had to get up repeatedly in the night to look after a new baby you will understand the fogginess and confusion the next day brings.

There are two main types, or stages, of sleep: lighter sleep when we dream and heavier or deeper sleep. It is important to reach these deeper stages of sleep, which occur later in the sleep cycle. If you only achieve the lighter stages of sleep, for example if you wake up repeatedly during the night, you won’t feel refreshed in the morning. Nightmares can also cause us to wake up unnecessarily in states of panic and confusion often with a racing heart, preparing the body for real life battles with imaginary demons.

The process of digestion is generally considered an active process, requiring the body to use energy to break down the food and move it through the body. While some foods may make you feel sleepy, especially high carbohydrate foods, they actually prevent the body from slowing down and getting ready to enjoy its nightly rest.Generally you should avoid eating a few hours before bedtime, to allow your body to finish the more active parts of the digestive process. However, there are a few foods you should specifically avoid if you want to get a restful and reviving sleep.

1. Spicy foods

Many spicy foods increase stomach acid secretion which means if you have over eaten, or have a weak stomach valve, this acid can travel up the esophagus when you lie down. Also known as heartburn this causes a painful sensation in the chest which can make it hard to get to sleep. Some spicy Asian foods also naturally contain high amounts of glutamate, which also stimulates the brain causing excitement of neurons and feelings of alertness.

Studies in the international journal of psycho-physiology found that spicy condiments such as tabasco and mustard had anegative effect on sleep. After eating these hot foods subjects took longer to get to sleep, spent more time awake during the night and less time in the deeper sleep phases.

2. Ice-cream

Well known as a comfort food, ice cream contains large amounts of dairy, fat and also sugar. The high dose of sugar causes the secretion of large amounts of insulin which after it quickly mops up all that sugar will actually make you feel hungry again. This returning hunger, in addition to making you likely to finish the tub of ice-cream, will make you feel famished when trying to get to sleep. Trying to get to sleep after hunger has set in can be difficult and getting up in the night to satisfy your hunger can be disastrous. Developing habits of getting up to eat confuses your biological rhythms and sets in place negative behaviors which can be hard to break.

3. Candy bars

Just like ice-cream, candy bars are packed full of sugar which in addition to adversely affecting the regulation of appetite also correlates to an increased incidence of nightmares. Studies in the Journal of Mind and Body found that consuming sugar laden foods produced nightmares in 70% of their subjects. This was thought to be related to stimulation of specific brain waves related to negative imagery during sleep. Bars also commonly contain chocolate which has its own sleep averting effects.

4. Red meat

While red meat does contain some sleep inducing amino acids, such as tryptophan, it also is very heavy on the stomach and takes a long time to digest. When the body is busy processing all the fats and protein it is hard for it to fully relax and let you drift off to sleep.

The quality of the meat can also have a significant effect. When animals are stressed before they die, either long-term stress due to poor conditions or the short-term stressed induced by the slaughter process, they release cortisol. When we consume their meat we also then take up this hormone and research indicates that when eaten it has a similar effect to when we make it ourselves. Cortisol is better known as the stress hormone and stress is not good for sleep.

5. Greasy food

Food containing lots of fat is renowned for causing stomach upsets which reduce physical comfort and distract you from getting to sleep. Eating late at night also means your body won’t burn off the calories you consume, so they will become stored somewhere on your body as fat. Avoid the sickly feeling before going to bed by staying away from high fat foods.

6. Pizza

Depending on who made it, pizza can be packed full of artificial chemicals designed to make you eat more. While home-made pizza could be a gentle light meal chances are if it is from a fast food restaurant it will contain some form of stimulating glutamate which will make you overindulge. The acidity of the tomato sauce combined with greasy toppings makes this an ‘ideal’ stomach ache inducing sleep preventing snack!

7. Celery

Having to get up in the night is obviously going to prevent you from getting the full spectrum of sleep needed. Celery is a natural diuretic, which means it will make you urinate more often. If you eat celery before going to bed you may need to get up during the night to go to the toilet, when your body would rather be sleeping. Also the high fiber content can make digestion slow and in some people causes bloating, burping and flatulence which add further sleep distractions.

8. Soda

Carbonated drinks either contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, both of which dampen the immune system, which has valuable repair work to do at night. Some sweeteners also excite parts of the brain that should be calming down and preparing to rest. The acidity of the drink also has a negative effect on the stomach and the gas can cause bloating. To top it off many drinks contain caffeine or other stimulants which further reduce your ability to wind down and go to sleep. Since soda contains no nutrient value you may as well avoid it completely, thus also reducing the changes you will have to get up in the night to go to the toilet to flush out its useless chemicals.

Studies conducted by the US military found, perhaps unsurprisingly, that soldiers were having trouble sleeping after consuming energy drinks. While caffeine was one of the main culprits the other ingredients such as herbal stimulants also prevented them getting to sleep even when physically exhausted.

9. Chocolate

While many people are aware tea and coffee contain caffeine, with its known stimulating effect, many people are unaware of less well known sources. Studies undertaken by the Journal of Nutrition Research found that adolescents in particular were often consuming a lot of caffeine from chocolate without realizing.

In addition to the caffeine content chocolate also contains theobromine which has a positive effect on mood and also energy. The combination of the two chemicals can keep your energy levels artificially elevated, making sleep less likely. Studies in the Journal of Sleep Medicine even suggested there could be a correlation between sleep behavior disorders, such as violent dreams, and late night chocolate consumption.

10. Alcohol

While alcohol can help you get to sleep quickly initially, it severely impacts sleep quality. When drinking alcohol you are more likely to wake up during the night and find it difficult to get back to sleep. This means you miss out of the deeper, higher quality, sleep. The immune suppressing effects of alcohol also mean the overnight fix-up of the body physically, and recharging of mental batteries is not done. The physical relaxation of the muscles of the throat also makes snoring more likely which if severe can wake you up, or at least negatively impact the sleep of anybody you are sharing a bed with.

Increase your energy with sleeping not eating

The relationship between food and energy means that when we are over-tired, lacking mental or physical energy, many people reach for high calorie food. This tendency to seek out food is due to the stimulation of the hormone ghrelin and instead of sleeping we eat. Not only does this cause weight gain, but also deprives the body of vital and nourishing sleep. When animals are deprived of sleep in laboratory tests they over-eat to try and compensate, and so do we, but in the long run it doesn’t help.

The increase in incidence of sleep disturbances was previously thought to be related to visual and auditory stimulation before bedtime, specifically TV, and also stress. However research is showing that what we eat can stop us from having a sound night’s sleep. If you are having trouble sleeping try changing your diet and avoid eating for at least a few hours before bedtime. Along with adopting a calming bedtime routine cutting out the late night food could help you drift into the gentle sleepy slumber your body needs.

[Normagene]

Top 10 Herbs For Your Body & Improve Your Health

Adding herbs is an inexpensive and simple way to boost the flavor and nutritional value of your meal without adding a lot of calories. With such distinct flavors, it’s easy to take your favorite recipes to a whole new level. Experiment with one or a few of these 10 herbs that will help your waistline without hurting your health.

1. Basil
Fresh Basil
Disease cannot survive in an alkaline environment, but instead thrives in an acidic one. Similarly, all disease begins with some form of inflammation. Basil- often referred to as “king of herbs”- is highly anti-inflammatory thanks to its oils, such as eugenol, citral, and limonene, to name a few. These oils have also have anti-bacterial properties. Have an anti-aging routine? Add basil, as it contains several antioxidant compounds like orientin, vicenin–both of which have been shown in rat studies to prevent oxidative damage in the liver. This finding was published in Journal of American Science in 2011.

Basil is often added to tomato-based soups and dishes with tomatoes, as the two are complementary in flavor. Drop a few fresh leaves in boiling water to make basil tea, which is said to help relieve nausea.

2. Cardamom
Commonly found in South Indian and Sri Lankan dishes, this spice is rich in nutrients that stimulate digestion. It is antispasmodic, helping to ensure that the intestines keep the food moving the way it’s supposed to. This benefit has been shown in a 1996 publication of Pharmacological Research. Cardamom counteracts excess stomach acid, stimulates bile production, and reduction of gastric juices. Keep in mind, proper digestion is the key to keeping the weight off, since better absorption of nutrients results in less feelings of hunger.

Use cardamom as flavoring base for coffee drinks and teas. Try adding some cardamom seeds to rice pudding, frozen yogurt, or over a fresh fruit salad. As a general rule of thumb, use this spice to blur the line between sweet and savory recipes.

3. Cilantro
If you love cilantro, you must add this herb to your weight loss plan, particularly if you’re counting calories. At only 1 calorie per ¼ cup of fresh cilantro, it’s a smart way to add flavor to your meals! Furthermore, cilantro is full of essential nutrients to optimize metabolic processes, keep you full, and less likely to eat empty calories. It’s high in Vitamins A, C, and K- all of which your body needs everyday.

In addition, cilantro has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Stems and leaves contain antioxidants like quercetin and keampferol, while its leaves and seeds contain anti-inflammatory compounds like borneol and linalool. Recently, a study in the Indian Journal of Medical Research found that rats with rheumatoid arthritis that were given cilantro extract had reduced swelling and less inflammation than the rats who received steroidal treatments.

Fresh cilantro is a must for any salsa recipe. Make cilantro vinaigrette by combining a handful of cilantro with one part lemon juice, 2 parts olive oil, then salt and pepper. Finally, try substituting cilantro for parsley in a tabouleh salad for a fresh change.

4. Cinnamon
A favorite in the dessert world, cinnamon is ironically good for diabetics. Recent studies show its promise in helping diabetic patients by improving the action of insulin. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2007 found that in healthy subjects, consuming 6 grams of cinnamon reduced the glucose response after a meal, most likely due to slowed emptying of the stomach’s contents. Other studies have shown that cinnamon can lower triglycerides, LDL, and total cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes. In addition, cinnamon is thought to have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, as well aid in the treatment of rheumatism, some menstrual disorders, ulcers, indigestion, and diarrhea.

Sprinkle cinnamon liberally over fruits or desserts. It can also be added to enhance the flavor of coffee. Throwing just a pinch into curry-based (or similar in flavor) dishes adds a surprisingly good punch to the overall taste.

5. Ginger
Best known for being sushi’s partner, ginger is a powerful digestive aid and antimicrobial herb. Ginger root is particularly potent, containing phenolic compounds like gingerols, zingerone, and shogaols, which help digestion by maintaining the tone of intestinal muscles and neutralizing excess acidity without abdominal irritation.

Traditionally, it has also been used as an anti-inflammatory and painkiller, helping to treat arthritis, chronic muscular pains, even respiratory issues from allergies. In a 2005 article published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, authors discovered that ginger modulates biochemical pathways related to chronic inflammation Other studies have shown that it may help relieve pregnancy-related nausea, motion sickness, migraine headaches.

Boil ginger root slices in water (add lemon juice and honey, if desired) to help with indigestion, diarrhea, and sore throat. A dash of ground ginger complements the flavor of sweet potatoes, and surprisingly, tastes great with peaches!

6. Peppermint
This herb goes beyond flavoring: whether it’s consumed or applied topically, peppermint has various health benefits, due to its active ingredients: menthol, menthol acetate, and menthone. Peppermint is used as a digestive aid, remedy for colic, and provide relief for irritable bowel syndrome.

Researchers in Germany found that among healthy subjects, peppermint oil acts a digestive aid by having a relaxing effect on the gallbladder and by slowing down the transit time of food in the small intestine - where most of the absorption takes place. Their findings were published in a February 2003 volume of Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Peppermint is also high in dietary fiber- a must for any weight loss meal plan.

Add a few chopped peppermint leaves to your salad for a refreshing twist. You may also make mint tea by itself, or add to your favorite existing tea. Add a few finely chopped leaves to salad for a refreshing twist. For a healthy snack, mix organic yogurt with some freshly ground mint leaves, some cumin, and a dash of salt.

7. Oregano
It’s long been used as an antimicrobial and anti-fungal agent, but oregano is rich in iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium- all of which support cardiovascular health and promote healthy metabolism. It’s also full of antioxidants like manganese, copper, Vitamins C and A, and beta carotene. According to scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, oregano has 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples, 12 times more than oranges, and 4 times more than blueberries.

Oregano is also believed to be a digestive aid, acting on the motility of the gastrointestinal tract, and on the secretion of digestive juices. Lastly, it is an excellent source of dietary fiber- just 100 grams provides 107% of RDA, or 42.8 grams of fiber.

No pizza is complete without oregano, so sprinkle liberally! Season a tomato-and-mozzarella salad with oregano, then drizzle with some olive oil. For soups, make oregano ice cubes: oregano covered with water or whatever broth you need for the soup, then frozen in ice trays.

8. Rosemary
What once was believed to ward off bad influences, rosemary, as it turns out, may ward off unwanted weight. It’s full of B-vitamins, which play a significant role in the way your body metabolizes carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Without them, some metabolic processes may not work properly, if at all.

Rosemary also has antioxidant abilities, as it contains lots of Vitamin C (100 grams contains about 37% of the RDA), and the mineral manganese (100 grams contains 40% of the RDA). A study in Finland that was published in a 2006 volume of Molecular Nutrition & Food Research suggested that rosemary contained compounds that are able to counteract the harmful oxidation that occurs with heating extra virgin olive oil.

Whether soups, salads, baked vegetables, or meat dishes, rosemary usually complements tomatoes, potatoes, and zucchinis. Rosemary also goes extremely well with lamb, especially when combined with lemon juice and garlic. For sweet-lovers, try sprinkling rosemary over some frozen yogurt or mousse.

9. Saffron
Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, but a tiny amount goes a long way, both in flavor and in its health benefits. Studies have been published suggesting saffron’s role in the management of PMS, Alzheimer’s Disease and other neuro-inflammatory conditions, age-related macular degeneration, and depression- just to name a few.

A study published in Nutrition Research in May 2010 followed mildly overweight women who made no changes to their diet except for taking 176.5mg of extract from the saffron stigma (the part of the plant used for consumption) once a day. Compared to other mildly overweight women, the women who took saffron had reduced snacking frequency and increased feelings of satiety (feeling full) after 8 weeks.

Tea is an easy way to enjoy saffron: just drop five or six strands into 1-2 cups of boiling water. Add a few strands to water before making rice, and you’ll love the aroma as the rice cooks, not to mention the flavor. Saffron can also be lightly sprinkled over some cream-based desserts.

10. Thyme
A favorite among the French, this herb is popular for its antiseptic properties, helping to fight a variety of infections. Thyme is an immune-booster, as it’s loaded with Vitamins C and A. Researchers from the University of Brighton, East Sussex, found that thyme oil was affective in killing MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staph aureus), which is otherwise resistant to regular antibiotics. The findings were published in International Journal of Essential Oil Therapeutics in 2010. Thyme is also loaded with B-vitamins (see section on rosemary).

Thyme is excellent in braised recipes and stews. Add to vegetables before roasting them, or throw into a marinade for poultry recipes, particularly those calling for lemon and/or garlic. Throw some in scrambled eggs to start your morning off right.

Say goodbye to bland diet foods, and say hello to mouth-watering meals by giving these herbs a try.

[Normagene]

Health News
Is Your Moisturizer Increasing Your Cancer Risk?

We're all aware that what we eat plays a huge role in how likely we are to develop diseases. Fewer people are aware that it is just as important to be cautious about what we put on our skin. Our skin is our largest organ, and it is our body’s first defense against toxic substances from the outside world.

The skin is closely linked to the blood stream; it turns out that many of the creams and chemicals applied to our skin get absorbed into our blood stream- yuck!

Did you know that skin care products like moisturizers often have ingredients designed specifically to make our skin more permeable?

This is not good news; more permeable skin equates to more toxins in the blood stream. Sometimes, skin care products contain known cancer-causing substances, and no one is stopping them from doing so. Therefore, it’s our jobs as health-conscious consumers to read the ingredients labels on skin care and hair care products.

A study published within the National Center for Biotechnology Information observed the effects of various moisturizers on mice that were already at a high risk for developing skin cancer. The mice were irradiated with UVB two times per week for 20 weeks, and then had moisturizers applied to their skin five days per week for 17 weeks.

UVB is a component of sunlight that is responsible for sunburns and contributes to skin aging and skin cancer development, so these mice were already at a very high risk for getting skin cancer. In addition, mice have much thinner skin than humans do, and so the UVB and moisturizer would have greater effects on their skin.

Therefore, this information is most relevant to people who get a lot of sun exposure or are genetically predisposed to skin cancer. However, knowing the toxic and/or carcinogenic ingredients in certain moisturizers and other skin care products will be helpful to everyone, since it is possible for these ingredients alone to trigger the cell growth that leads to tumors.

The moisturizers tested in the experiment were Dermabase, Vanicream, Dermovan, and Eucerin. Overall, these mice developed 69% more tumors than the control group. For people with weakened skin or pre-existing cancer risk factors, using these products is probably a bad idea.

There are hundreds of moisturizers on the market, though, and it can be hard to figure out which ones are safe. The ingredients below are commonly found in skin care products, but are also often present in hair care products. It’s best to keep an eye on what’s in any product that you use so that you can switch to a safer one if necessary.

If you don’t want to use a store-bought product with chemicals you can’t pronounce, consider making your own moisturizer. It can be even easier than going to the store, and it’s obviously much healthier for your skin. If you want to look for better quality store-bought options, here are some of the ingredients that you should steer clear of.

Potentially Harmful Ingredients:

Sodium lauryl sulfate is in most hair care and skin care products, which makes no sense after you consider how bad it is for us. Two major points here are that it’s a recognized skin irritant and that it’s very harmful to the environment.

Countless scientific studies have linked sodium lauryl sulfate to hormone disruption, toxins within the organs, and increased skin permeability (which makes it easier for toxins to enter the blood stream). This chemical also pollutes the water and air during the manufacturing process. Mineral oil is used as a moisturizing agent, but it is rather inefficient. It actually just takes moisture from other cells within your skin and brings it to the surface.

This is thought to put unneeded stress on the cells that moisture is taken from, speeding up the skin aging process. In addition, it seems to act as a sealant on the skin. This is bad because it means that the skin cannot absorb moisture naturally or get rid of toxins as well as it’s supposed to. Frequently applying mineral oil to the skin can cause negative effects on both the endocrine system and the immune system.

Tanning oil is essentially pointless. People usually apply this before going out to sit under the sun and tan, but why? Tanning oil attracts sunlight and usually has such a low SPF level that it does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVB rays.

Tanning oil makes it more likely for you to get sunburned. Some types contain harmful ingredients in them, so there’s no point putting it on your skin if it doesn’t even help protect you.

Propylene glycol often causes skin irritation and dry skin over time. It also increases skin permeability, making it easier for toxins to get in.

Parabens, including methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and isobutylpareben, are in many skin care products as well.

They are used to prevent bacterial growth, but can cause skin irritation and are easily absorbed into the blood stream. The main health concern with parabens is that they are thought to act as estrogen disruptors, and may contribute to the growth of hormonal cancers like breast cancer.

Isopropyl palmitate is a chemical that clogs your pores and makes it difficult for your skin to “breathe” properly. It can cause dry, nutrient-deprived skin.

Ceteareth-20 is used to increase the permeability of the skin. It is sometimes contaminated with known carcinogenic substances, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide.

It is quite harmful if used on injured skin and is considered toxic overall by many people and groups.

BHT is an ingredient that many people choose to avoid in their food, but it can be found in certain skin care products as well. It is linked to gastrointestinal issues, liver damage, and possibly even cancer.

Isopropyl myristate is linked to skin, eye, and lung irritation, and can trigger skin inflammation. Sodium hydroxide is recognized as a strong irritant; it is potentially toxic to the skin, the brain, and various other organs.

Making Your Own Moisturizer

It’s actually quite easy to make your own moisturizer that’s good for your skin. There are tons of recipes online with only a few ingredients, and it’s possible that you’ll have them all in your house already. Here are two good beginner recipes for healthy DIY moisturizer.

Melt ½ cup of organic coconut oil. Mix it together with 1 teaspoon of liquid Vitamin E and 12 drops of lavender essential oil. Let it solidify and apply.
Melt 2 tablespoons of organic coconut oil. Mix with 4 tablespoons Aloe Vera gel, 1 teaspoon of liquid Vitamin E, and 2 tablespoons of almond oil.

[Normagene]

Ingredients to Watch Out When Buying Bread

Bread is an ancient staple in man’s diet. It used to be a simple food that provides energy for our daily needs.

But the bread today is very different from that of the past. The type of wheat, the yeast, and the ingredients used in the modern bread are no longer the same as the traditional bread.

The companies that mass-produce sliced bread are allowed to put dozens of chemicals, additives, and other unnecessary things into their products. Some of these are strongly linked to health issues, yet are still approved by the FDA for use in our food.

That is why it’s vital that you understand which bread to watch out for. We have done a lot of research on bread, what are the ingredients used, and why you should avoid.

Why You Should Never Eat White Bread

Whole grains are made of three layers. The outermost layer has the most fiber, the middle layer has the most nutrients, and the inner layer is mostly starch. White bread is made up only of the inner layer of the grains, and so it lacks the fiber and nutrients that whole grain breads contain.

The grain, stripped of its two outer layers, is then put through a high-speed mill in order to grind it up. These mills produce a lot of heat, which depletes even more nutrients from the already processed grains.

Once the grain is ground into flour, it is bleached. One common chemical used to bleach white flour is chlorine oxide. Chlorine oxide is a powerful irritant that is dangerous to inhale, and yet it is used to make food.

You’ll see below that bread is filled with many other chemicals, some of which are obviously dangerous. Regardless, of all bread types, white bread is the worst of them all.

Next, let’s take a look at the different ingredients in bread that you should look out for.

Additives Found In Many Store-Bought Breads:

High fructose corn syrup: Most people know that HFCS is really bad for us. It’s in most processed foods even though it can do quite a bit of damage to our bodies. HFCS can cause and worsen diabetes, weaken the immune system, and disrupt metabolic functions in the body.
highfructosebread

Calcium proprionate: This ingredient increases inflammation along the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to ulcers. A study in the Journal Of Pediatric Health found that children who consume bread that contains calcium proprionate every day are more irritable and restless than children who avoid bread with calcium proprionate.
calcium-propionate-bread
Azodicarbonamide: Banned in both Europe and Australia, this industrial chemical is present in hundreds of our food products. It disrupts the body’s hormone regulation, weakens the immune system, irritates the skin, and can trigger asthma symptoms. Azodicarbonamide is very commonly added to bread products, even some of the whole wheat and whole grain varieties.
azodicarbonamide-bread
Sucralose: Also known as Splenda, sucralose is most commonly found in light breads that are meant to be low calorie or low carb. A study in the Journal Of Toxicology And Environmental Health has linked this sugar substitute to a reduction in gut bacteria. We need our gut bacteria to properly break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight disease, just to name a few. Sucralose can also interfere with insulin and blood sugar regulation in the body.
bread-sucrose-label
Yellow food coloring: Yellow #5 is strongly linked to hyperactivity and aggressive behavior, and it may also contribute to blood cancer and thyroid cancer. Yellow #6 caused adrenal tumors in animal test subjects. The adrenal glands help regulate hormones in the body, so yellow #6 may act as a hormone disruptor. It is also linked to allergies and thyroid cancer.
bread-yellow-color
Caramel coloring: This unnecessary additive caused lung cancer in animal test subjects and has also been linked to high blood pressure in humans. Recent quality control experiments with soda products found that the caramel coloring levels in many popular soda brands greatly exceed the limit that is considered safe. Some versions of caramel coloring may weaken the immune system and trigger allergies.
Other ingredients to watch out for – Datem, sodium stearoyl lactylate, calcium peroxide, mono and diglycerides.

Clearly, reading the ingredients label is important when buying bread. Some of the above items are completely unnecessary, such as yellow food coloring and caramel coloring. However, others serve valid purposes in keeping the bread “fresh” for long periods of time.

Traditional bread is baked and then eaten within a few days, so preservatives are not necessary. Store-bought bread has to stay good long enough to get from the facility where it’s made to the stores where it’s being sold, then sit there long enough to be purchased.

This is not an ideal way to buy bread because of the chemicals that are added to make this process possible. The best alternative is making your own bread, but if you aren’t willing to do that, then there are some store-bought types and brands that aren’t so bad.

Healthiest Types Of Bread:

Sprouted grains bread: This is arguably the healthiest type that you can buy. It uses whole grains rather than flour. The process involves soaking grains in water until they begin to sprout, then harvesting the sprouts and grinding them up.
Flaxseed bread: This is made with flax seeds, which are a healthy source of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. Flax seeds also contain fiber and promote healthy digestion.
Rye bread: This is made from whole rye grains. Rye bread is more filling than wheat bread, does not trigger a large insulin response after consumption, and can reduce bodily inflammation.
Oat bread: Made from healthy whole oats, this type of bread contains more fiber and more protein than wheat bread. Compared to wheat bread, it also has more nutrients and is more filling.
Brands That Carry Healthy Bread Types:

Food For Life
Rudi’s Organic Bakery
Dave’s Killer Bread
Ancient Grains Bakery
Manna Bread
Specific Examples Of Healthy Breads:

Food For Life’s Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Grain Bread
Manna Bread’s Sunseed Bread
Canyon Bakehouse’s Gluten-Free Deli Rye Style Bread
Rudi’s Spelt Ancient Grain Bread
Always check the ingredients label before buying bread, and try to go for 100% natural and organic whenever possible. Sprouted grains bread seems to be considered the best type among health-conscious consumers. Flaxseed, rye, and oat breads are also all healthy alternatives to wheat bread. Whole wheat and whole grain breads can be healthy as long as you make sure that they aren’t loaded with artificial chemicals and additives.

However, avoid white bread at all costs. White bread is so processed that it hardly contains any nutrients, and it is made with bleached white flour. The above healthy bread brands may seem pricey if you’re used to cheap white or wheat bread. If you can’t afford to buy high-quality bread, then you should look into making your own. It can be surprisingly cheap to create your own bread, and you’ll know it’s truly good for you.

[richard200593]

Officially hit 70 pounds today. How is everyone else doing? The last few weeks I've been craving some pretty unhealthy food but making sure to make up for it by intense workouts. Finding that balance seems to be really important.

[RubyCamaro]

Congrats!

I'm doing well with my activity & pretty well with my food intake but no gains or losses that are measurable in weight, muscle, fat or water. Just stuck. Hopefully I'll break free of the plateau soon.

[CFD]

Originally Posted by richard200593

Officially hit 70 pounds today. How is everyone else doing? The last few weeks I've been craving some pretty unhealthy food but making sure to make up for it by intense workouts. Finding that balance seems to be really important.

You may get away with it for a while but not for long. I'm sure you've heard the saying " you can't out train a bad diet" there is a reason for it.