Archive for the Good For You Category
Posted on August 16, 2010 by admin
My son has this habit of eating snacks an hour or so before we have our dinner. And sometimes he would be full, he couldn’t eat dinner. I came across these non-suppers. I better stock on these foods. At least if he eats snacks before dinner, it wouldn’t be that bad even if he skips dinner.
1. Cheese & Crackers
Bonus Points:
* 1 fruit or vegetable
* cold chicken or roast beef
2.Yogurt & Applesauce
Bonus points:
* slice of toast
* handful of nuts
* a shake of granola or meusli
3. Peanut Butter Toast & Banana
Bonus Points:
* Whole wheat bread
* All-natural peanut butter
* carrot sticks
4. Granola & Milk
Bonus Points:
* fresh berries
* dried fruit
5. Egg “McMuffin”
Bonus Points:
* fresh fruit
* slice of tomato or lettuce
* A slice of turkey breast, or low-salt ham
6. Fruit Smoothie
Bonus Points:
* add oatmeal
* add Peanut Butter (Peanut Butter Smoothie recipe)
* add Spinach
* use coconut milk
7. Veggies & Dip
Bonus Points:
* add whole wheat pita chips or strips
* add cold chicken for dipping
8. Raisin Bran Muffin & Hot Cocoa
Bonus Points:
* use 70% pure cocoa powder (a top ten super food for kids)
* add zucchini, carrot or pumpkin to the muffins
9. Whole Wheat Grilled Cheese
Bonus Points:
* a slice of tomato
* raw fruit or veg accompaniment
* homemade pickle (link to Lynn)
10. Tuna Salad on Whole Wheat Bread/Bun
Bonus Points:
* Low-fat mayo
* diced celery and apple in the mix
Source: http://www.simplebites.net/.
Posted on August 11, 2010 by admin
1. A morning journal and a sketchbook
This little habit will clear up your mind and give you a rush for creativity that could possibly last you the whole day. {I am planning to create a journal. In fact, I bought myself tons of pens for this project alone.}
2. Meditation
Meditation is a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving your health.
3. A morning walk
Breathe that morning air and get a few minutes to connect with nature — it’s incredibly refreshing and therapeutic.
4. Yoga and exercise
Yoga, or some form of exercise that both stretches and strengthens your body, is a great habit to develop early in life. {I found a Yoga and Wellness Center near my son’s school. Should I try it out?}
5. Massage
They help rejuvenate the cells and relax muscles, and body and head massages are wonderful for the skin and scalp.
6. Unplug
Unplugging might be one major way to reduce a number of stress-related problems we see these days. {This is so true. I feel relaxed during the weeks that we didn’t have an internet connection.}
7. Drinking lots of water
Water is such an important component to maintain good overall health – skin, digestive system, a healthy weight and overall energy.
8. Natural remedies before anything else
If you have chronic issues, explore some natural remedies before jumping off into strong medicines.
Source: http://simplemom.net/long-term-natural-living/.
Posted on July 8, 2010 by admin
I am again reading about apidexin reviews and similar stuff that will help me lose weight. I reached a plateau and I need to jumpstart my diet. Trying to eat healthy too can contribute a lot to our overall health. And below are superfoods that will add years to your life.
Maple Syrup
Why it’s a winner: “This mineral-rich sweetener provides calcium, magnesium, zinc and potassium,” says Klein. While one serving (one tablespoon) will not provide significant amounts of these nutrients, this low-fat topping still offers traces of these minerals, making it a healthy choice.
Best way to eat it: Choose 100 percent pure maple syrup rather than the corn syrup-loaded “maple flavored” syrups. You can substitute ¾ cup maple syrup for one cup of sugar when baking. “And keep in mind that maple syrup is a great flavor enhancer on a winter squash, like butternut, on your morning multi-grain waffle, hot cereal or in yogurt.”
Cocoa beans
Why they’re a winner: “They’re high in catechins — antioxidants that provide many benefits for heart health, like controlling blood pressure,” says Klein.
Best way to eat them: For maximum immune boosting antioxidants and sweet-tooth satisfier, Klein suggests choosing an unsweetened organic cocoa powder (non-alkaline), which is available at most health food stores. She suggests mixing one tablespoon into one cup of hot water and adding a teaspoon of cinnamon.
Butternut Squash
Why it’s a winner: This winter squash is full of beta-carotene, a fat-soluble compound that possess antioxidant properties, which may help prevent cancer. “It’s also high in fiber — so you’ll feel fuller longer and will even experience more satisfaction per chew. It’s also high in vitamins A, B6, C and folate and in the minerals manganese, magnesium and potassium,” says Klein. “And it’s a gluten-free way to get fuel in a meal, plus a great substitute for the typical carbs, like bread, rice and pasta.”
Best way to eat it: Available fresh, frozen and canned, Klein advises eating with a palm-sized piece of fish or chicken and a steamed green-leafy vegetable in order to create a balanced meal.
Salsa
Why it’s a winner: While the tomatoes provide an excellent source of Vitamin C and the antioxidant lycopene, the peppers provide capsaicin, which may help fight bacterial infections, prevent heart disease and improve digestion, while the onions contain antibacterial and antifungal properties that can reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol and prolong
Popcorn
Why it’s a winner: “Made in the movie theater or loaded with butter and excess salt, it’s a heart attack waiting to happen,” warns Klein. “But treated properly, popcorn is a great high-fiber snack.”With Vitamin A, calcium and potassium, this treat is also made with folic acid (a B vitamin that helps the body make healthy new cells) and phosphorus (a mineral that helps with the formation of bones and teeth).
Best way to eat it: Choose organic air-popped popcorn, which can be found in most health food stores and look for popcorn with just a one-word ingredient: popcorn.
Ricotta Cheese
Why it’s a winner: Not only is this traditional Italian cheese higher in calcium and lower in sodium than cottage cheese, it contains folic acid and phosphorus, along with potassium (a mineral that is essential for proper function of all cells, tissues and organs) and magnesium (another essential mineral that helps with the functioning of certain enzymes in the body). “It can also be a great replacement for sour cream and cream cheese.”
Best way to eat it: Look for the organic version. “For a high-calcium protein source that’s low in fat, choose part-skim ricotta,” adds Klein.
Almond Butter
Why it’s a winner: This high-protein, high-energy spread is an ideal alternative to peanut butter. “Because almond butter is rich in monounsaturated fats, is extremely low in saturated fats and has no trans fats at all, this butter if definitely a heart-healthy choice,” states Klein. The almonds also provide significant amounts of calcium, fiber, magnesium, folic acid, potassium and vitamin E. “Plus, one plant sterol, beta-sitosterol, may alleviate the symptoms of an enlarged prostate.”
Best way to eat it: Klein advises buying an organic almond butter with few additives. Whether you choose roasted, non-roasted, smooth or creamy style is simply a matter of taste.
Hummus
Why it’s a winner: The main ingredient in this spread is garbanzo beans, which are low in fat and high in fiber and protein (a combo that will keep you feeling full for hours). In addition to containing numerous minerals, like iron, zinc, phosphorus and calcium, garbanzo beans also have saponins, phytochemicals which may act as antioxidants. Hummus also includes tahini (a sesame seed paste) and olive oil — two ingredients that are high in monounsaturated fat, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Best way to eat it: Enjoy two tablespoons on a serving of whole wheat crackers, suggests Klein.
Horseradish
Why it’s a winner: Belonging to the same family as broccoli and Brussels sprouts, horseradish contains significant amounts of glucosinolates — compounds that have been shown to improve digestion, as well as increase the liver’s ability and purify carcinogens. Horseradish root is used to make the familiar spicy sauce, which is a phenomenal source of magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron and anti-stress B vitamins. Horseradish may also boost the immune system, thanks to being rich in Vitamin C.
Best way to eat it: “If you choose prepared horseradish, go for the red variety, which gets its color from beet juice,” says Klein.
Source: http://www.aolhealth.com/2010/02/25/surprising-superfoods/?ncid=webmaildl3.
Posted on June 17, 2010 by admin
From food expert Michael Pollan:
Don’t eat anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food.
Avoid food products containing ingredients that a third-grader cannot pronounce.
Eat only foods that will eventually rot. Eat all the junk food you want as long as you cook it yourself.
~snagged from http://www.selfhelpdaily.com/.
Posted on May 23, 2010 by admin
I have found these little changes that we can do to the foods we prepare for the family to maximize nutrition without compromising taste.
Get More Whole Grains
Take a take a look at your cereals, breads, pastas, rice, waffles and any other grain product you have. Claims such as “100% whole grain” with “whole wheat/oats/brown rice” as the first ingredient are what you want. Be wary of claims such as “made with whole grain” which only requires that 10% of the product contain whole grains.
Lower the Sugar
Focus on Fat
Animal fats including butter, cream, full fat dairy products and high fat meats are high in saturated fats, which has been linked to heart disease. When possible, lower the fat of animal products by choosing fat-free or low fat milk, yogurt and cheese and lean cuts of meat. On the other hand, fats contained in vegetable sources are beneficial for health, including olive/canola oil, avocados and nuts and seeds. When possible, choose items with canola and olive oil, which are low in omega-6.
Check the Sodium
An occasional high sodium food or meal is not a problem, it’s the total sodium consumed over time that matters. So check the labels and try out reduced/low sodium products when appropriate.
Include Super Foods
Fruits, vegetables and beans (black, kidney, garbanzo and northern) top the list of super foods. Dietary Guidelines recommend Americans get 3 cups of beans per week because they are nutrition-packed and include protein, antioxidants, fiber, iron and B vitamins.
Colorful vitamin C-rich fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, cantaloupe and oranges help increase the absorption of iron at meals while blueberries, blackberries and cranberries pack an antioxidant punch.
Don’t forget vitamin A-rich dark green and orange veggies such as spinach, kale, carrots and butternut squash.
~via http://www.organizingyourway.net/.
Posted on February 26, 2010 by admin
1. Eat breakfast every morning
2. Get a good night’s rest
3, Drink water
4. Get some exercise
5. Enjoy fish a few times a week
6. Eat at home
7. Go to church
8. Enjoy a hobby
9. Make an effort to be happy
10. Be thankful
11. Be frugal
12. Save
13. Stop worrying
14. Quit procrastinating
15. Be organized
You can find more of the ways {there are 100 of these} at http://www.100bestdatingsites.com/blog/2008/100-simple-ways-to-change-your-life-for-the-better/.
Posted on February 13, 2010 by admin
I think I have bad skin. I so need to look for the best age spot removal. Thanks to AgeSpotsRemoval.net, I came across several natural, safe and non-surgical options to bring back life to my skin. I do need change my diet, too. Below are foods that is good for the skin.
1. Low fat yogurt
Low fat dairy products are full of vitamin A. This essential vitamin does wonders for our skin. If you have a thyroid problem or diabetes that’s another reason for you to stock up on organic law fat yogurts!
2. Berries
Berries have a great antioxidant capacity which means – the more of these we have, the longer our skin will look youthful and healthy!
3. Salmon
Our skin needs essential fatty acids.
4. Green tea
This drink contains polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory characteristics.
5. Water
Good hydration is our skin’s best friend. So ensure that you’re getting at least 8 glasses of water a day for your beautiful skin.
{Source: http://allwomenstalk.com/9-best-foods-for-your-skin/}
Posted on January 15, 2010 by admin
Almonds
Rich in fiber, riboflavin, magnesium, iron and calcium.
Apples
Excellent source of pectin, a soluble fiber that can lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Also a good source of vitamin C.
Blueberries
Rich source of plant compounds (phytonutrients).
Broccoli
A good source of calcium, potassium, folate and fiber, phytonutrients and vitamins A and C.
Red beans
Good sources of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and thiamin. They’re also an excellent low-fat, low-calorie source of protein and dietary fiber.
Salmon
Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Spinach
High in vitamins A and C and folate. It’s also a good source of riboflavin, vitamin B-6, calcium, iron and magnesium.
Sweet potatoes
High in antioxidant beta carotene. Also good sources of fiber, vitamins B-6, C and E, folate and potassium.
Vegetable juice
Has most of the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients found in the original vegetables.
Wheat germ
Has niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin E, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc. The germ also contains protein, fiber and some fat.
{source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/health-foods/NU00632}
Posted on November 22, 2009 by admin
I stumbled upon this list of how to feel great from Inspiration & Motivation blog and I just had to select some of the tips from the long but very helpful and informative list.
1. Exercise for 30 minutes everyday.
2. Drink multivitamin each day.
3. Don’t be a greedy eater.
4. Drink plenty of water.
5. Laugh.
6. Eat with your family together.
7. Keep choosing healthy food when you have dinner outside.
8. See something beautiful, like: put a picture of your beloved on your desk, see sunrise/sunset, put a vase in your room or hang your favorite picture on your wall that you can enjoy every day.
9. Face aging process by exercising, such as taking a walk, jogging, swimming, gardening, hiking, cycling or other aerobic activities.
10. Take time for yourself. We need some time to be alone and to be with other people. Being alone is very good for your body and soul, like relaxation, reflection, etc.
11. Practice your breathing. It can help relieving your tense and stress.
12. Set a schedule for having fun.
13. Spend money wisely.
14. Practice to identify and overcome stress. Signs of stress are get angry easily, isolate from surrounding environment, cry often, have insomnia, etc.
15. Identify your comfort zone. When you know your comfort zone – in what condition you can be comfortable and satisfied – you will feel better.
Read the rest of the list here.
Posted on November 8, 2009 by admin
Got these six natural remedies from Simple Mom.
1. Ginger
Ginger (or ginger root) is one of my most favorite spices. It has been used in Asian cooking for years, and has a wonderfully distinct taste and smell — it’s been used over the years to disguise the taste and smell of medicines.
2. Garlic
Garlic belongs to the onion family and is another root I use quite a bit in cooking. It has a strong taste when raw, but it gets mild and sweet on cooking. Garlic is known for its antibiotic properties, and is also a powerful antioxidant. Garlic helps control cholesterol, too.
3. Honey
The benefits of honey are known worldwide. It has been known to energize the body, boost immunity, help with cuts and bruises, and works wonderfully on coughs and colds.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is a key ingredient for many Indian, Thai and Malay dishes. It is known to be a really effective antibiotic, due to its antiseptic properties.
5. Pepper
Pepper is a widely available spice, and it is known to stimulate taste buds and improve digestion. As with garlic, it is hard to use pepper directly, so it is best to incorporate pepper into cooking.
6. Cloves
Cloves are known for their antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, and even aphrodisiac properties. Traditionally, cloves were used to reduce bad breath.
Really helpful and informative list, isn’t it? I actually tried honey before for my kid for his frequent coughing allergy. However, he doesn’t like to take honey by the spoon. Garlic, on the other hand, is a staple in the house most especially for our garlic lemon pasta. For my dark circles though, the best under eye cream is what I badly need. 
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