How to Make an Energy Drink with Ginger

Start to Finish: 15 minutes Servings: 2 Difficulty Level: Beginner

Simply glance at the nutrition label of a store-bought energy drink and you’ll soon realize you don't recognize half of the listed ingredients. To ensure you know exactly what you're putting in your body, forgo adding any excess sugar and fillers by creating a simple and nutritional energy drink with natural ingredients such as ginger and lemon. In addition to boosting energy, ginger may also help to ease muscle pain and soreness.

Ingredients

• Gingerroot  
• 2 lemons
• Fresh mint
• Honey  
• Directions

Step 1
Peel the gingerroot with a sharp paring knife to remove the tough outer skin. Cut the gingerroot into small chunks before placing it into the base of a pot. Cover the gingerroot with 4 to 5 cups of water and bring it to a boil.

Step 2
Boil for around 5 to 7 minutes to ensure the gingerroot infuses with the water. Remove from heat and allow the water to cool. Pour the mixture through a fine strainer and into a serving container to remove the chunks of gingerroot.

Step 3
Cut 2 lemons in half and squeeze the juice into the serving container with the ginger-infused water. Stir the mixture with a large spoon to ensure the lemon juice disperses evenly throughout the container. Place 5 to 7 mint leaves into the container to create a fresh flavor profile.

Step 4
Stir in 2 large tablespoons of honey to add sweetness. Cover the serving container and place in the refrigerator to cool. Serve the ginger-infused energy drink over ice for a quick pick-me-up or pre-workout boost.

Tip
Combine your energy drink with green tea to boost the antioxidants.
When consuming your ginger energy drink after a tough workout, add a pinch of sea salt to replenish your electrolytes.

How to Make a Body Wrap Slimming Gel

A homemade body wrap gel is a simple and effective way to detox and slim the body, as well as deliver a dose of minerals and moisture. Wrapping your body in a mixture of clay, salt, aloe and oil helps to remove unwanted toxins and excess fluid. Skip the high-priced body wrap from the salon and make your own in the comfort of your own home.

Things You'll Need
1/2 cup natural clay (French green, Bentonite or other)
2 tablespoons sea salt
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
1/4 cup castor oil
Wooden or glass bowl and spoon
Large sheet or towel

Step 1
Combine 1/2 cup of clay with 2 tablespoons of sea salt in a wooden or glass bowl. Do not use metal, as it can deactivate the clay. The clay works to draw toxins from the body, while your skin absorbs natural minerals from the sea salt. Epsom salt is another option, as it is a natural source of magnesium.

Step 2
Add 1/4 cup of castor oil, a widely used oil for beating bloat and slimming the body. You can heat the oil slightly to increase its effectiveness as it detoxes the liver and helps smooth the skin when applied to stretch mark-prone areas like the thighs and abdomen. If you don't have castor oil, you can substitute any hydrating oil you have on hand (such as coconut, almond or olive oil).

Warning
Do not use castor oil if you're pregnant or menstruating.

Step 3
Add 1/4 cup of aloe vera gel. A powerful skin healer, aloe vera reduces inflammation and swelling, not to mention helps keep skin clear and healthy.

Step 4
Combine the ingredients with a wooden spoon. If the mixture is too thick, add water until the body wrap gel is smooth and easily spreadable.

Step 5
With clean hands, apply a thin layer of body wrap gel to the skin. Standing on a sheet or in the tub, start with the feet and legs and work your way up the body, ending with the arms and hands.

Step 6
After the body wrap gel has been applied, wrap up in a towel or sheet to keep warm and relax for 60 minutes. Then rinse off the mixture with warm water and follow up with moisturizer.

How to Lose 20 Pounds Without Pills or Exercise

One pound of body fat is made of 3,500 calories, so eliminating 3,500 calories results in one pound of lost weight. Exercise is useful because it burns calories, but it isn't necessary; neither are diet pills. Just cut calories from your diet to lose weight. To lose 20 pounds with only dietary changes, cut out 70,000 calories from what you currently eat. That probably sounds intimidating, but aim to cut 500 to 1,000 calories per day for weight loss of one to two pounds per week and four to eight pounds per month.

Step 1
Focus on eating fresh produce, whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy and small amounts of healthy fats. Eat lower-calorie foods that are rich in fiber, protein and/or water to help you fill up and stay full longer.

Step 2
Drink water, tea and and other no-calorie beverages in place of fruit juice, soda, beer, wine and other beverages that provide extra calories. Depending on your habits, this change alone can cut a few hundred calories a day. Have a glass or two of water 20 minutes before meals to fill up and eat less.

Step 3
Serve meals on smaller plates and in smaller bowls. You take less and don't feel as deprived as you would with a lot of empty space on the dish. Reduce all your typical portion sizes by just a quarter, and you eliminate a quarter of your daily calories.

Step 4
Eat slower to eat less. It takes about 20 minutes for your body to sense that its hunger has been satisfied, notes Joanne Larsen of Ask the Dietitian. Avoid distractions, such as television or the Internet, while eating, so that you pay more attention to your body's signal that it's had enough food.

Step 5
Skip the junk food. The empty calories do you no good, and can easily be replaced with fewer, nutrient-dense calories from healthy snacks, such as fruits or vegetables and a low-calorie dip.

Kiwi Fruit for Skin Care

Kiwis are natives of the China’s Yangzte River Valley, but today are grown commercially worldwide. The fuzzy brown-skinned fruit with the tasty green center is loaded with nutritional benefits that rival those of many other fruits. Whether you eat them or apply the flesh to your skin, kiwis contain vitamins and other nutrients that contribute to healthy, glowing skin. When choosing a topical cream or gel that contains kiwi or kiwi extract, keep in mind that research into topical applications of kiwi is ongoing.

Firm Skin
Kiwis contain large amounts of vitamin C, which helps your body produce collagen, a connective tissue protein that helps to firm your skin. Production of collagen decreases with aging, causing skin to lose elasticity. Collagen-stimulating ingredients, like kiwi extract, may be added to skin care products to slow the appearance of aging.

Soft Skin
Vitamin C not only firms skin, it repairs it. Kiwis have more vitamin C than a comparable amount of oranges. Vitamin C helps cuts and abrasions heal and it also works to prevent rough, dry skin. In addition to skin care products that contain kiwi extract, get an internal vitamin C boost with a fresh salad of kiwi, strawberries and citrus slices to help protect skin from the inside out.

Smoother Skin
Kiwis are a good source of vitamin E. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that topical vitamin E may decrease facial lines and the depth of wrinkles. Studies of vitamin E as an external application are inconclusive but ongoing. Vitamin E has been shown to reduce UV-induced skin cancer in animal testing. Remember that cosmetics are not as strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as products that are classified as drugs. Sunblock does offer you protection from harmful ultraviolet, or UV, rays. Wrinkle cream may or may not erase those frown lines.

Younger Skin
You can’t turn the clock back but you may be able to slow it down. Kiwis are a major source of antioxidants that can delay the effects of aging throughout the body. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that can damage healthy cells and hasten the process of degeneration, including changes in skin thickness, elasticity and firmness. You should get your antioxidants from food sources, like kiwis that have a complex mix of vitamins C, E, lycopene and other substances that fight free radicals.

Acid vs. Alkaline Diets and Cancer

The alkaline diet lies at the heart of the medical community’s ongoing debate over the influence that acidity and alkalinity have on the cause and spread of cancer. Proponents of the diet claim that cancer cells cannot survive in an alkaline environment. However, diet critics reject the theory behind it as unrealistic and potentially dangerous because it encourages the exclusion of many foods that are essential to balanced nutrition.

Case for Alkaline Diet
In “Cancer Diagnosed: What Now?” author Willem J. Serfontein makes his case for the alkaline diet as a weapon for fighting cancer. A former professor of chemical pathology at South Africa’s University of Pretoria, Serfontein suggests that no cancer therapy can ultimately succeed if it is not used in combination with an alkaline diet. He claims that major cancers cannot survive in an alkaline environment with an average pH of 7.8 or higher. Serfontein contends that the typical Western diet, which is high in the consumption of refined food products, is a bad cancer diet because its high levels of acidity literally feed cancer cells. He claims that an alkaline diet can halt the spread of cancer “better than any treatment.”

Warburg's Findings Cited
In “The Raw Food Lifestyle,” author Ruthann Russo, a holistic health counselor with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, cites the work of German physiologist Otto Warburg as a rationale for the alkaline diet. Warburg won the Nobel Prize in 1931 for his earlier discovery that cancer cells thrive in conditions where there is little or no oxygen. Russo points out that acidic foods are extremely low in oxygen, indicating that the avoidance of acidity should be a primary objective of those who have cancer or who are seeking to minimize the odds of getting cancer.

Diet's Effects on pH Balance
Stephanie Vangsness, a registered dietitian with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital, argues that the proponents of the alkaline diet overlook some of the realities about human pH balance. In an article for Aetna’s InteliHealth website, Vangsness points out that the human body has an elaborate system of checks and balances to ensure that overall pH balance is maintained within a healthy and normal range between 7.35 and 7.45. This system makes it “nearly impossible to achieve and maintain a high-alkaline pH for a prolonged period of time.” Moreover, argues Vangsness, strict adherence to an alkaline diet excludes or sharply restricts several food groups, including beans and legumes, dairy and fats and oils, all of which are important in the maintenance of a balanced diet.

Cancer Creates Acidity
Barrie R. Cassileth and Gary Deng of the Integrative Medicine Service at New York’s Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center attack the central theory behind the alkaline diet. In the book “Principles and Practice of Gastrointestinal Oncology,” the authors point out that it’s the rapid growth of cancer cells that creates an acidic environment and not an acidic environment that creates cancer. Like Vangsness, they explain that the body’s built-in system of pH balance maintenance ultimately means that eating more alkaline foods does little to alter pH levels. In summary, they suggest that “such extreme dietary plans do more harm than good for cancer patients.”

5 Variations Of The Body-Weight Squat

If you had to choose just one exercise to help clients improve strength, power and core stability all in one move, you’d probably choose the squat. That’s why many consider the squat to be the king of all exercise moves. In addition to working the quadriceps, a proper squat recruits muscle fibers from the hamstrings and glutes. It also forces the core to engage and the upper body to stabilize, making it a nearly total-body exercise.

There are numerous variations of the basic squat, which you can use with your clients to recruit different muscles and help stave off boredom. In addition to the basic body-weight squat, here are five squat variations to add to your exercise arsenal.

BODY-WEIGHT SQUAT

Before trying variations of the squat, help your clients master this exercise using only their own body weight.

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart; cross the hands at the chest or extend the arms out in front to help counterbalance the body. Bend the knees and lower the body as if sitting in a chair. If possible, lower the body until the thighs are parallel to the floor. Return to the starting position by pushing the heels into the floor and straightening the legs. During the entire move, be sure to keep the feet flat on the floor, the core engaged and the back as straight as possible. Also, try to keep the knees in line with the ankles while in the squat position and do not let the knee cross in front of the foot.

BARBELL SQUAT

After mastering the body-weight squat, clients may progress to the Barbell Squat. The additional weight from the loaded barbell in the squat rack will recruit more muscle fibers than a body-weight squat, so clients will see quicker improvements.

Stand with the feet shoulder-width apart and a loaded barbell resting comfortably on top of the traps, just below the back of the neck. Bend the knees and lower the body as if sitting in a chair, until the thighs are parallel to the floor. Return to the starting position by pushing the heels into the floor and straightening the legs. During the entire move, be sure to keep the feet flat on the floor, the core engaged and the back as straight as possible. Also, try to keep the knees in line with the ankles while in the squat position and do not let the knee cross in front of the foot. For concentration, it helps to keep the eyes looking forward and locked in on a focal point.

DUMBBELL SUMO SQUAT

Squats work many muscles in the legs, but the Dumbbell Sumo Squat is particularly effective for focusing on the muscles of the inner thighs.

Stand with the feet wider than the hips and the toes pointed out to the sides about 45 degrees. Hold one dumbbell in both hands and extend the arms toward the floor. Bend the knees and lower the body until the thighs are parallel to the floor. Straighten the legs to return to the starting position. Keep the arms straight and close to the body throughout the entire movement. Also, try to keep the knees in line with the ankles while in the squat position and do not let the knee cross in front of the foot.

FRONT BARBELL SQUAT

The Front Barbell Squat involves squatting deeper than most other squat variations.

Stand with the feet slightly wider than the shoulders. Rest a barbell on top of the front deltoids; it helps to cross the hands on the chest and extend the elbows in front of the body to help balance the barbell. Bend the knees and lower the body as if sitting in a chair, until the thighs are just past parallel to the floor. Return to the starting position by pushing the heels into the floor. During the entire move, keep the feet flat on the floor, the core engaged and the back as straight as possible. For concentration, it helps to keep the eyes looking forward and locked in on a focal point.

WALL SQUAT

If your clients have trouble performing a traditional squat or if they are up for an isometric challenge, try the surprisingly difficult Wall Squat.

Stand facing away from a wall, with the feet positioned 6 to 12 inches away from the wall. While keeping the back against the wall, bend the knees and lower the body until the thighs are parallel to the floor. Hold this position for up to 30 seconds. Return to the starting position by pushing the heels into the floor and sliding the back up against the wall. The entire back and the back of the head should stay in contact with the wall throughout the exercise. When in the squat position, be sure to keep a right angle at the knees, which should be in line with the ankles

12 Weird Beauty Uses for Coconut Oil

Finding a good beauty product is like making a new friend, but finding a product that can help with practically everything is like finding the holy grail. Coconut oil, which is all natural and available at just about every grocery store within a two-mile radius of wherever you are right now, is that holy grail. From working as a natural sunscreen to helping rehydrate your dry hair, below are 12 weird beauty uses for coconut oil.

Oil Pulling: If you haven’t heard all the buzz about oil pulling yet, get yourself on the bandwagon. Swishing coconut oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes a day (preferably at the beginning of the day, before you brush your teeth) can help to detoxify your body, cure headaches, whiten teeth, and much more.

Cuticle softening: Our cuticles need a little T.L.C., and if you’re fresh out of cuticle oil you can substitute coconut oil. Aim to apply to your fingers twice a day, especially if you spend a lot of time washing your hands every day.

Ends of your hair: For ladies with regular to thick hair, using a pinch of coconut oil on the ends of your hair can help dry, damaged tips to get a huge dose of moisture.
Body scrub: Use coconut oil as a base for your DIY body scrub, mixing in an exfoliant like granulated sugar for some seriously smooth skin.

Inside your nose: Whether you have a runny nose or allergies, rub just a bit of it inside your nostrils for relief.

Lip Balm: Spread coconut oil over your lips before bedtime for extra hydration (that tastes amazing!) throughout the night.

Makeup remover: Trouble getting off that last bit of mascara? Use a dab of coconut oil — just be careful to not get it directly in your eyes.

Shaving cream substitute: Instead of using shaving cream, apply coconut oil to your skin and then go about shaving. This’ll be especially helpful if you have sensitive skin and get irritated easily. Plus, it’s easier on the razor when it comes to cleaning.

Wrinkle prevention: Use coconut oil on the area around your eyes to prevent wrinkles and under eye bags.

Acne treatment: Put the coconut oil on acne and leave on for about 15 minutes, then wash off with warm water and don’t use anything on top. The anti-bacterial components in the oil will work to combat acne.

Hair regrowth: Known to help with cell regrowth, apply coconut oil to any areas of baldness (especially your eyebrows) to help with hair growth.

Sunburn relief: Though it can be used as a natural sunscreen, coconut oil can also be applied to the skin for sunburn relief.

Too Much Vitamin B12 Side Effects

Vitamin B-12, also known as methylcobalamin, is an essential nutrient, but you only need a limited amount of it. The National Institutes of Health recommends 2.4 micrograms per day for adults, while pregnant and breast-feeding women need 2.6 to 2.8 micrograms. With vitamin B-12, a deficiency is more likely than a toxicity. Adverse effects from too much vitamin B-12 are rare because your body excretes excessive amounts through urine. If you take any kind of supplements and have abnormal symptoms, discuss your concerns with a doctor.

Vitamin B-12 Functions
Vitamin B-12 helps in the manufacture of red blood cells and ensures proper functioning of your nervous system. When you don’t get the recommended daily amount, you might experience deficiency symptoms such as weakness, anemia and numbness. Meats, organ meats and shellfish are all natural sources of vitamin B-12. Certain foods, like breakfast cereals, are also fortified with the nutrient.

Supplements for Deficiency
Vitamin B-12 from plants is not well-absorbed, so if you eat a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may need a supplement to avoid deficiency. The same is true if you have malabsorption issues from digestive disorders, or if you’re 50 or older. Because the liver stores vitamin B-12, most people have a reserve of the nutrient, not a deficiency. In addition, the liver also helps to get rid of any excess, so vitamin B-12 toxicity is rare.

Adverse Reactions From Supplements
Vitamins B-12 is found in most multivitamins, but is also available as a single supplement as a pill, sublingual tablet or nasal gel. Sometimes a doctor orders vitamins B-12 as an intramuscular injection, or a shot. Vitamin B-12 shots are dosed up to every two days for the first two weeks, then monthly thereafter, according to FamilyDoctor.org. There are no known overdose reactions from any of these forms of vitamin B-12, but you might experience skin redness or swelling at the site of injection.

Interactions With Medications
While vitamin B-12 does not cause problems alone, there is the possibility of drug interactions. The most common side effect of such combinations is malabsorption of the vitamin B-12. Antibiotics, diabetes drugs and acid reflux medications are the most common culprits.

How to Make Ginger Juice

Ginger juice is derived from the roots of the ginger plant; it offers high nutritional value. People can either buy ginger juice or make it at home. The ginger plant comes from Asia and is used in most Asian foods. Ginger contains a slightly sweet and spicy taste and when juiced, ginger is ideal for use in sauces, marinades and dressings. If you are interested in making ginger juice, purchase fresh, raw ginger from the fresh vegetable section of your local supermarket.

Things You'll Need
Ginger roots
Vegetable peeler
Grater
Cheesecloth

Wash the ginger roots. Ginger roots grow underground and may contain soil or other types of debris; therefore proper washing is recommended before using for any reason.

Peel the ginger skin. Take a regular vegetable peeler and begin peeling the skin off. To make this step easier, leave the ginger roots in the refrigerator for several hours prior to peeling them. If peeling is difficult with a peeler, use a small paring knife to remove stubborn parts of the peel.

Grate the ginger. Take all of the peeled pieces of ginger and use a standard kitchen grater to grate all of it. This step is required to make juicing the ginger easier. Grate it over a plate or a cheesecloth.

Place the grated pieces in cheesecloth. Take a small bowl or glass and begin squeezing the cheesecloth with as much force as possible. As you do this, the ginger juice will begin coming through the cheesecloth and into the bowl. The cheesecloth also holds all of the chunks inside of it, ensuring that only the juice comes through. If you have trouble getting juice out, try using a garlic press to squeeze the plant gratings.

Use the juice. Ginger juice often is added to recipes such as stir fries, baked goods or other dishes. It also is added to marinades and sauces. Ginger juice will add flavor to meals, but using too much of it may cause a very spicy flavor.

How to Make a Cleansing Water with Cucumber, Mint and Ginger Root

With all the beverages on the market, it's refreshing to step back and make your own fresh, natural water drink. This is made with regular tap water and a few items you can pick up from your local produce department, and start drinking right away.

Things You'll Need
ginger root
2 quarts of water
mint leaves
peeled, seeded cucumber
pitcher

Purchase a cucumber, ginger root and mint leaves from wherever you get your produce. If you grow them yourself, you can just pick them up from your garden. Peel and seed the cucumber. Start with half a cuke, then decide what balance of flavors you like best by experimenting a few times. Add your cut cucumber pieces to a 2-quart pitcher.

Peel and seed a cucumber.

Next, peel and cut into chunks up to 2 inches of ginger root. Add the pieces of cut ginger root to the 2-quart pitcher.

Peel and cut the ginger root into small chunks.

Whether you have home-grown or store-bought mint leaves, add approximately 10 leaves to the pitcher with the other ingredients; you can use fewer or more, depending on the flavor you like best. Pour water over your cut-up pieces and let stand in the refrigerator overnight to achieve maximum flavor.

As you drink your fresh water beverage, keep adding water to the pieces and stir for up to two days before dumping the herbs and vegetables and starting over. Drink as much water as you can daily; this is a refreshing option to plain old water.

Foods That Cause Memory Loss

Aging is not always necessarily responsible for a person's memory loss. Short-term memory problems, in particular, can be caused by a number of other factors. What we eat and drink can definitely play a part. Therefore, knowing what foods to eat and what foods to avoid can contribute to brain health. Consuming adequate levels of certain nutrients helps to maintain healthy nerve cells, enhancing memory and slowing the progression of dementia.

Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar can have detrimental effects on the brain. Loss of short-term memory is a common symptom. A research study published in a recent issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) suggests that older diabetics may be at increased risk for developing Alzheimer's disease or other dementias (see Reference 1). The study found that the risk increases more with the severity of hypoglycemia. Individuals are advised to reduce sugar intake--and that includes consumption of artificial sweeteners. It may help to understand that the body quickly metabolizes foods that contain refined white sugar and bleached white flour. This causes blood sugar to spike, then drop. Because high glucose levels can damage brain cells, a healthier alternative for both mind and body is to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, which are high-fiber carbohydrates. The body absorbs these carbohydrates better and raises blood glucose levels slowly.

Nutrient Deficiencies
The brain requires plenty of nutrients to function properly. Lack of certain vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients can decrease cognitive skills, and may contribute to the earlier onset of Alzheimer's disease in some individuals. A diet low in iron and zinc could cause memory problems. While iron deficiency can reduce a person's ability to concentrate, low levels of zinc are believed to slow memory recall. Zinc, along with co-enzyme Q10 and essential fatty acids, plays a significant role in maintaining healthy brain function. The B vitamins--including B12, B6, and folate--are good for the brain as well, as higher levels of B complex may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Although the connection with folate is not as obvious, folate decreases homcysteine levels in the blood, improving blood flow that takes oxygen to the brain. Adequate levels of selenium and vitamin E in the body could also help to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's and related dementias. Low levels of iodine in the body are another cause for concern; according to the World Health Organization (WHO), iodine deficiency is a leading cause of preventable mental impairment (see Reference 2).

Alcohol
Limit consumption of alcohol, which acts as a depressant by slowing down reaction time and interfering with thought processes. Information recently published online by Brown University Health Services explains that women are more at risk than men for suffering the negative effects of drinking too much alcohol (see Reference 3). Because women have less body water than men, their ability to dilute the alcohol is diminished. A woman's body also metabolizes alcohol more slowly, resulting in blood alcohol levels that could be high enough to impair judgment and lead to mental confusion. For both men and women, drinking alcohol in excessive quantities can affect short-term memory.

Contaminated Produce
Foods not organically grown are often contaminated with insecticides or other pesticides that are toxic. These chemical substances can affect nerve function, causing brain damage and memory loss. Toxins in the environment that are passed on to humans through the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat have the potential to destroy brain cells. When mitochondria in cells are destroyed, the body's ability to produce adenosine triphosphate is destroyed as well. Adenosine triphosphate is the body's primary source of energy and is central to brain cognition and thought.

Warning About Food Preservatives
The chemicals found in food preservatives, artificial colors and flavors, and other additives can accumulate in the body, causing eventual brain damage and memory loss. While these substances are used to make food look better and increase their shelf life, beware of foods with the word "enriched" on the label, as they likely do not have any higher nutritional value.

Soy
Consuming too many soy products like tofu might actually increase the risk for memory loss, according to a study funded by the British Alzheimer's Research Trust (see Reference 4). Although soy is an alternative source of protein for many people throughout the world, if consumed in high enough quantities, the phytoestrogens contained in soy may increase the risk of dementia, especially in older individuals.

The Best Antioxidants for Lymphoma Cancer

Antioxidants protect the immune system by fighting free radical cell damage that leads to chronic diseases and cancers. Antioxidants may benefit patients with various lymphomas, cancers of the white blood cells in the immune system, by slowing tumor growth and enhancing the effects of chemotherapy. According to a report in the International Journal of Cancer, antioxidants can also lower the risk of developing lymphoma. The study suggests getting antioxidants through foods, rather than taking supplements.

Curcumin
Curcumin is the substance that gives turmeric its yellow color. Curcumin can interfere with the energy supply needed by malignant cells, thereby causing those cells to die. A 2009 study in Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs concludes that curcumin has potential as a lymphoma therapy because it can suppress tumor growth, kill malignant cells and inhibit metastasis.

Selenium
Selenium is found in Brazil nuts, cereals, meat, fish, and eggs. A report in Biological Trace Element Research, showed that sodium selenite (a dietary form of selenium) administered together with chemotherapy eliminated more malignant lymphoma cells than chemotherapy alone.

Beta-1,3 D-glucan
Beta-1,3 D-glucan, found in oats, barley, and reishi, shiitake and maitake mushrooms, can strengthen the immune system, enhance the production of blood cells, and kill tumor cells. According to the Journal of Experimental and Clinical Cancer Research, beta-1,3 D-glucan may benefit lymphoma patients who are undergoing chemotherapy by helping the body to maintain adequate blood cell production.

CoEnzyme Q10 (COQ10)
CoQ10 is a substance that works both as a coenzyme to generate cell energy and as an antioxidant to protect cells. Lymphoma patients generally have low amounts of CoQ10 in their blood. CoQ10 may help these patients boost their immune systems and energy levels. Oily fish, organ meats and whole grains are the best sources of natural CoQ10.

Green Tea
The main polyphenol antioxidant in green tea is the catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant. A 2005 study reported in Cancer Research shows that EGCG inhibits lymphoma cell growth and promotes tumor cell death.

Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a powerful anti-cancer agent. According to the International Journal of Oncology, resveratrol interferes with the pathways of malignant cells, preventing them from proliferating. The study suggests that resveratrol may be useful in treating aggressive lymphomas.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and Zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, kiwi and corn. A 2006 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people on a diet rich in these antioxidants had a lower risk of developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

The 7-Day Flat-Belly Spring Detox

It's that time again—time to lose the winter weight and get ready for spring. And with summer around the corner, belly bloat and muffin tops sour even the best laid-out wardrobe.

Don't let belly blues dictate your spring this year. Follow these five key flat belly principles to balance your metabolism and flatten your belly.

Days 1-3: The Liver Laundromat
The best way to tackle your belly is to begin by cleaning up your liver. The liver is the laundromat of the body, processing all the excess food, chemicals and medications that we ingest. A sluggish liver affects your metabolism and slows down your digestion, resulting in more belly weight. In fact, many women struggle with fatty liver, a condition where fat accumulates on the liver, adding to trouble losing weight. Diets and exercise will only help weight loss if the liver is functioning efficiently.

Jumpstart your spring by beginning with a liver cleanse. While there are many complex liver cleanses on the market, simply going green for a day, and incorporating liver-friendly foods, will help. Think green smoothies, green juices and vegetables, all day long. If you want an extra boost. add a handful of dandelion greens or parsley to the mix, as they are considered liver cleansers as well.

Days 4-6: Balance Your Bacteria
The role of gut bacteria and abdominal weight has become a focused area of research, with the imbalance of our bacteria thought to be the root of obesity and belly weight. Processed foods, eating the same foods daily and environmental factors—including stress, medications and toxins—disrupt your gut bacteria. This will affect signaling of insulin, the hormone when out of balance, results in an expanding belly. Altered gut bacteria also affect your mood and your appetite, causing those pesky sugar and carbohydrates cravings.

Rebuilding your gut bacteria takes work, but is not impossible. Continue your greens but lets add a step. Rotate and vary your foods. Lose all processed and boxed foods for the next few days. Add in probiotic rich foods, including one cup of bone broth soup daily, a few ounces of homemade kefir (fermented dairy drink) or homemade kombucha. Your skin and your belly will thank you.

Day 7: Flush Out the Toxins
To really continue to flatten your belly this spring, continue the hard work of the last few days, but flushing out toxins now from your colon and large intestine is the next goal. Add a few cups of ginger tea daily to improve the digestive process and at least a 100 ounces of water. Adding a few electrolytes to your water can also improve the detoxification process.

At the end of seven days, you should notice a flatter belly, just in time for the season. If you are ready to take this even further and have not lost motivation, add in the following daily tips.

Digestive Enzymes
At some point, probably by Day 8, you will be reintroducing foods that you love to eat. Don't undo all your hard work by adding in a digestive enzyme to continue improving the digestive process.

The best digestive enzyme has amylase and lipase, enzymes that break up starch and fat, helping your metabolism.

Probiotics
At some point the probiotic rich foods may be hard to remember to take. Adding in a probiotic is helpful, but the key is to make sure it contains multiple strains of bacteria and at least 20 CFU or colony forming units.

Start by researching these 9 probiotics recommended by a detox expert, and don't forget to rotate your probiotics every six weeks to keep your gut challenged.

Betaine HCL
Finally, stress and poor eating can actually cause a loss in acid, HCL, which helps us digest our food. Consider adding in betaine HCL prior to meals to support digestion and flatten your belly.

Start these Spring Flat Belly Rules and welcome in your best season yet. Make those belly blues a distant memory.

Post-Workout Muscle Recovery Drinks

What you consume right after your workout directly affects your results and recovery. When eaten within an hour of your workout, a combination of protein and carbohydrates helps your body start the repair and refueling process. Although whole foods can be beneficial, you don't always have a serving of chicken and brown rice in your gym bag. A muscle recovery drink is much more convenient when it comes to post-workout nutrition.

Recovery After Exercise
Carbohydrates consumed after exercise help to refill the glycogen, or energy, stores in your muscles. This is especially true if you've just done a long cardio endurance bout, such as a 10-mile run, or have spent several hours cycling; however, resistance training can also deplete energy stores. A serving of protein also assists recovery by providing amino acids to facilitate healing of micro muscle fiber tears that occur during exercise. When these fibers regenerate, they become stronger and denser, translating into greater physical strength and muscularity. Consuming protein post-workout prevents your body from going into a negative protein balance, where protein breakdown exceeds the amount of protein regenerated for muscle growth.

Why Drinks?
Muscle recovery drinks provide an immediate, easily-digested dose of protein and carbohydrates to worked muscles. Pre-packaged drinks or protein powders that you blend with water don't need refrigeration, making them more portable than many whole foods. If you tend to feel squeamish after a tough workout, you may prefer sipping a recovery drink rather than eating solid food. When you consume carbohydrates and protein in liquid form, your body easily processes the nutrients, meaning your cells receive the nutrition expediently.

When to Have One
You don't need a muscle recovery drink after every workout. Light exercise sessions, such as brisk walking or gardening, don't require extra post-workout nutrition. If you've just run a 60-minute session of all-out intervals, sustained a two-hour bike ride or lifted heavy weights for 45 minutes or more, you're probably due a recovery drink. Try to consume this drink as soon as possible after your workout, especially if you haven't eaten for several hours. Follow up your muscle recovery drink an hour or two later with a full, balanced meal that contains lean protein, whole grains and vegetables.

What to Look For
A muscle recovery drink that contains between 15 and 20 grams of protein and approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates is sufficient post-workout. Go with a pre-mixed version or make your own by blending fruit and protein powder with milk, water or juice. The International Society for Sports Nutrition says whey protein is your best choice for a post-workout protein supplement because it provides a complete array of necessary amino acids and digests quickly, but soy, casein or egg protein are possible alternatives.

The Benefits of Juicing a Potato

Because the potato is most often associated with baking, boiling or roasting for side dishes, juicing one may not have occurred to you. But, potato juice is nutrient-rich. While the taste of potato juice alone is unappetizing -- too vegetal and starchy with little natural sweetness -- its mild flavor means it can be mixed with other fruit and vegetable juices without affecting the taste. It takes 2 cups of diced, peel-on, raw potato to produce a 1/2-cup serving of fresh potato juice.

Essential Potassium
An electrolyte and essential mineral, potassium helps maintain the electrical activity in your heart. It also helps with the production of protein and muscle and regulates the acid-base balance in your body’s cells. Potassium also helps with maintaining healthy body growth and aids breakdown and use of carbohydrates. A 1/2-cup serving of potato juice has 1,263 milligrams of potassium, which is almost 27 percent of the daily recommended dietary intake for all adults.

Immune-Boosting Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps produce collagen, which is used to make tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and skin. Consequently, it helps with the maintenance of cartilage. Vitamin C is also important for the production of scar tissue, promoting wound healing. As a natural antioxidant, vitamin C helps your body defend itself from free radicals and environmental toxins such as smog and radiation, which can lead to premature aging and increase the risk of heart disease and cancer. A 1/2-cup serving of potato juice contains just over 59 milligrams of vitamin C. This is more than 50 percent of the dietary reference intake for all adults, with the exception of breastfeeding women, for whom it provides only 49 percent of the DRI.

Thiamine for Energy
A member of the B vitamin group, thiamine -- vitamin B-1 -- helps with maintaining healthy skin, eyes and teeth. It also provides support to your nervous system and helps your body break down carbohydrates into usable energy. A 1/2-cup serving of potato juice contains 0.24 milligrams of thiamine. This provides 20 percent of the recommended dietary allowance for adult men, almost 22 percent for adult women and 17 percent for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Natural Niacin
Also a member of the B vitamin group, niacin, also known as vitamin B-3, provides support to your nervous system, aids in the breakdown and use of carbohydrates and maintains healthy skin, teeth and eyes. Niacin is also known for helping improve circulation and for helping make a range of sex and stress hormones in your body. With just over 3 milligrams of niacin per 1/2-cup serving, potato juice provides almost 20 percent of the recommended dietary allowance for adult men, 22.5 percent for adult women, 17.6 percent for pregnant women and 18.6 percent for breastfeeding women.

The Benefits of Aloe Vera Juice for Weight Loss

People looking for quick weight-loss solutions sometimes turn to herbal products, such as those containing aloe vera. Although these products may produce short-term weight loss, they aren't likely to result in permanent weight loss and may have a number of side effects, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Most studies on aloe vera and weight loss have used aloe vera gel or supplements rather than aloe vera juice, so it may not have the same effects. Speak with your doctor before taking aloe vera internally because it may not be safe for you.

Aloe and Body Fat
An animal study published in Obesity Research & Practice in December 2008 showed a potential for plant sterols found in aloe vera to improve body composition. In the study, obese rats given these plant sterols had lower levels of abdominal fat after 35 days than rats not given these sterols. This effect may also occur in people. A small preliminary study published in September 2013 in Nutrition found that obese people with diabetes or prediabetes who took an aloe vera gel complex for eight weeks lost more weight and body fat than those not given this supplement. Larger long-term studies are needed to verify these effects.

Laxative Effect
Aloe vera may result in weight loss due to its laxative effect. Taking laxatives as a way to lose weight is a form of laxative misuse and can result in electrolyte imbalances that can cause numbness, weak muscles, seizures, irregular heartbeat, heart attacks and paralysis. Long-term laxative use can also interfere with your normal bowel function and cause incontinence or dependence on laxatives to have a bowel movement.

Potential Side Effects
Side effects from aloe juice are more likely if the juice is made with the whole leaves and contains aloe latex instead of just aloe gel. Taking aloe orally may cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, low potassium levels, nausea and vomiting. People who are allergic to tulips, onions or garlic may experience allergic reactions to aloe as well.

Other Risks and Contraindications
Pregnant women shouldn't consume aloe. Some reports suggest that long-term use of oral aloe may cause hepatitis or increase cancer risk, according to the American Cancer Society. Aloe juice may interact with some medications and may increase bleeding risk during surgery, notes the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. It may also cause thyroid problems. Because of the potential risks, the Center for Science in the Public Interest recommends avoiding oral aloe vera, even if it is in the form of juice.

The Dangers and Benefits of Raw Honey

Unlike processed honey, raw honey is not heated or filtered and retains more nutrients. Raw honey contains small amounts of the same resins found in propolis. Honeybees make propolis with plant resins and their own secretions. The bees use this substance to seal the hive and protect it from bacteria. There are both danger and benefits associated with this natural sweetener.

Risk for Infant Botulism
Botulism spores are in air, soil, water and plants. In the absence of oxygen, the spores germinate and produce toxins. The process of boiling destroys the bacterial spores and toxins. Raw honey is a potential source of the Clostridium botulinum spores. The Centers for Disease Control, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Honey Board recommend that you not give honey to infants under the age of 12 months. Infant botulism is a rare disease caused by the bacteria, Clostridium botulinum. The disease causes varying degrees of paralysis. Children over age 1 and healthy adults have the mature digestive systems necessary to prevent botulism spores from thriving.

Wound Healing
Raw honey as a wound-healing remedy dates to ancient Egypt and Greece. Modern medicine is rediscovering its healing properties. Adam Voiland writes that researchers believe honey has the ability to kill microbes. In his article, “The Healing Power of Honey,” featured online at U.S. News & World Report Health, Voiland, a writer with the magazine, reports the acidity in honey and its ability to dehydrate bacteria may be the reason for its therapeutic power in healing wounds. Honey dressings promoted healing, caused less tissue damage and reduce pain associated with dressing changes.

Energy Source
Raw honey is a source of carbohydrates, both fructose and glucose, which the body converts to energy. A serving of honey -- 1 tablespoon -- contains 17 grams of these natural sugars. Glucose provides instant energy, while fructose, which is more slowly absorbed, provides sustained energy. Athletes and active children benefit from raw honey’s energy boosting ability. Raw honey is a natural source of minerals such as calcium, iron and potassium as well as vitamin B complex.

Considerations and Serving Tips
Enjoy the health benefits of raw honey, but consume it in moderation. Each tablespoon boasts 64 calories, and, while this might not seem like much, it can add up quickly if you eat raw honey on a regular basis. Make sure to measure your servings to avoid accidentally over-consuming honey, and take into account honey's calorie content when calculating your daily energy intake.

Use raw honey in homemade salad dressings -- it pairs well with mustard and lemon juice, or with lime juice and minced jalapeno -- or use it to flavor rolled oats or nonfat Greek yogurt.

Remedies for the Face With Sugar, Honey and Lime Juice

Perhaps you don't want to spend a lot of money on fancy facial-care products. Maybe you're concerned about the ingredients in commercial products. Perhaps you just need to use up some stuff from your pantry. Whatever the reason, you might find it fun and beneficial to try out a facial remedy made from sugar, honey and lime juice. Each of these natural ingredients offers benefits to your skin.

Benefits of Sugar
Sugar is a popular ingredient in commercial skin products for a number of reasons. Sugar is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture to your skin from the environment, says Lather founder Emilie Davidson Hoyt. Sugar contains glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps condition and moisturize skin and protect it from toxins. Additionally, sugar's small particles make an excellent exfoliant, scrubbing away dead surface skin cells and revealing fresh, healthy-looking skin underneath.

Benefits of Honey
Honey is another humectant. The sweet nectar offers antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that are useful in fighting acne. Honey has natural antioxidant effects, which can protect the skin from ultraviolet damage. Honey's viscosity will pull away impurities from the skin and help skin heal. Finally, the bees' sweet nectar offers anti-inflammatory properties that reduce fluid retention under the skin and minimize scarring, according to Science Daily.

Benefits of Lime Juice
Limes have astringent qualities, which can cause temporary tightening of muscles. When you apply lime juice to your skin, pores are made smaller and skin appears smoother. This can improve the appearance of your complexion. OrganicsFacts.net reports that lime juice contains vitamin C and flavonoids, which have antioxidant, antibiotic and disinfectant agents. The citric acid found in limes helps remove dead skin from your face, which is important to keeping your face clean and acne-free.

Make a Face Scrub
To make a sugar, honey and lime scrub, put 1 tablespoon of brown or white sugar into a small bowl. Mix in 1/4 teaspoon lime juice, then thoroughly mix in 1 teaspoon of honey. Gently apply the scrub to your facial skin, moving your fingers in small circles. Rinse your face with lukewarm water and carefully pat dry. Some people have an undesirable reaction to new things applied to the face, so test a small area of skin elsewhere on your body before you go all out with your new face mask.

Nutritional Value for Raw Carrot Juice

Nutritional Value for Raw Carrot Juice - Sweet and brilliantly orange carrots are delicious cooked or raw. And while you might not think of it at first, fresh juice made from raw carrots is another way to get most of the nutritional benefits of raw carrots in a drinkable format. The dietary fiber of raw carrots, however, is not available in juice, because it is filtered out during the juicing process. It takes 3 cups of chopped raw carrot to make 1 cup of raw carrot juice, which is rich in a number of vitamins and minerals.

Strong Bones and Teeth

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. It is also necessary for muscular and blood vessel contractions, and it enables your nerves to carry messages between areas of your body. Calcium also helps release various enzymes and hormones that play a role in virtually every bodily function. The daily recommended amount of calcium is 1,000 milligrams for adult men and women, increasing to 1,200 milligrams for women over 51 years of age, and 1,300 milligrams for pregnant and nursing women. A 1-cup serving of raw carrot juice offers 127 milligrams of calcium, about 9.8 to 12.7 percent of the daily recommendation of calcium.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E provides support to your immune system, and it helps with red blood cell production. It dilates blood vessels, reducing the risk of blood clots, and it is also a natural antioxidant, protecting your body from damage from free radicals. Free radicals that build up in your body — they are formed as your body metabolizes food and fats — can speed up the aging process, as well as cause cell death and damage, increasing your risk of developing heart disease or cancer. A 1-cup serving of raw carrot juice has 2.5 milligrams of vitamin E. This provides 16.7 of the recommended intake for adult men and women, including pregnant women, and 13 percent of the recommended intake for breastfeeding women.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps with cellular differentiation, and it is crucial for keeping your eyesight healthy. It also keeps your mucous membranes healthy, as well as helping in healing wounds and providing support to your immune system. Like vitamin E, vitamin A is a natural antioxidant, protecting your body from damage from free radicals. Carrots are particularly rich in vitamin A, with a 1-cup serving of raw carrot juice providing 3,206 micrograms. This is well over 100 percent of the daily dietary intake of vitamin A for all adults, including pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Rich in Vitamin K

Vitamin K is essential for blood coagulation, earning it the nickname as the “clotting vitamin.” Stored in your liver and fat tissue, it also helps your body absorb and use calcium, making it important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. The daily adequate intake of vitamin K is 90 micrograms for adult women and 120 micrograms for adult men. A 1-cup serving of raw carrot juice has 51 micrograms of vitamin K, providing 43 percent to 57 percent of the daily AI for adults.

Full Body Weight Exercises With No Equipment Required

I know there’s a lot of great equipment out there which does wonderful things for our training  programmes. But there is so much we can do for great bodyshaping and strengthening without an item of equipment in sight!

Just for you, I have put together a workout here for which you need nothing more than your own body, comfortable clothing and minimal space.

There’s really no excuse not to give it a go!

These full body weight exercises will consist of the following, so make sure stick to it and I can assure you of results!

Warm up
Skipping, jogging on the spot, butt kicks, high knees, for around 10 minutes.

Mobility work along with some dynamic stretches for another 10 minutes.

Workout
Push ups for 30 seconds and then hold at the top in the plank position for 30 seconds.

Squats for 30 seconds and then hold at the bottom of the squat for 30 seconds, beginners can do the or 30 seconds. For the more advanced, they can do jump squats.

Tricep Dips  for 30 seconds and then hold in the contraction at the top of the move for 30 seconds

Ab Crunches for 30 seconds and then hold in the contraction phase for 30 seconds.

Burpees for 30 seconds and then hold in the plank on the hands for 30 seconds.

Jumping Lunges for 30 seconds and then wall sit for 30 seconds

Mountain Climbers for 30 seconds and then hold in the plank position for 30 seconds.

Complete 5 rounds of each exercise before moving onto the next one, resting 20 seconds between each round.

Cool Down for 5 minutes.

Exercises explained
Push Ups
Place yourself in the plank position on your hands and toes (feet can either be close together or wide apart depending on your strength, wider apart makes the push up slightly easier) lower down into a push up.

Depending where you are at in terms of capability at this stage, this exercise can either be done on your knees or toes.

Squat
Stand with feet hip width apart arms next to the body, squat downwards, keeping your back straight and your eyes looking straight ahead.

Make sure to contract your abs at the bottom phase of the squat and as you return upwards squeeze the glutes.

Tricep Dips
Position yourself on a bench, step or chair with your hands close to together behind your back, feet together and toes elevated.

Dip downwards with your body and come back up again.

Make sure your back is close to the bench and you  are not far away from it.

Ab Crunches
Lying on your back, feet together and heels on the ground, place your hands by your ears, crunch upwards keeping your head facing towards the ceiling.

Burpee
Stand with feet together and hands overhead, jump up, squat down touch the floor, shoot legs back into a plank position, squat back in, stand up and hop.

Jump Lunge
Begin standing in upright position, Jump up and into a lunge position, from there jump into the air and switch legs and land in a lunge position with the opposite leg in front.

Mountain Climbers
Begin in a plank position on hands and feet. Alternate bringing knees up towards chest in a rapid motion

Wall Squat
Sit against the wall with hips and knees both bent at 90degree angles. Keep shoulders and back flat against the wall. Do not lean on thighs. Keep arms down by sides. Make sure you can lift your toes, ensuring that there is no pressure on the knees.

Benefits of an Apple Cider Vinegar Bath

According to Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits.com and the Holistic Pediatric Association, when incorporated into baths and other face and body care regimens, apple cider vinegar may help heal the skin and restore its natural balance. Although no conclusive medical testing has proven that apple cider vinegar is beneficial or curative for all patients, because it is a low risk treatment that can provide relief, patients who are suffering from certain ailments may benefit by trying an apple cider vinegar bath.

Sunburn Aid
The Holistic Pediatric Association recommends apple cider vinegar as a treatment for pain or discomfort associated with sunburned or inflamed areas of the skin. When shopping for apple cider vinegar, select those which have been wood-aged instead of commercial ones that are chemically-aged. Apple cider vinegar can help alleviate the discomfort associated with sun burn and other skin irritations because it may be able to help restore the skin’s pH balance. To prepare the bath, add 2 cups of apple cider vinegar to a bathtub filled with warm water. Soak in the bath for 15 minutes.

Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment
To effectively cure or treat bacteria vaginosis, you need to restore the vagina’s healthy condition. Most treatments for vaginosis aim to reduce the vagina’s alkaline levels. One easy, cheap, natural but effective treatment method involves making use of substances that are mild but adequate in promoting pH balance in the body. According to Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits.com, apple cider vinegar may be one example of such a substance. Apple cider vinegar is acidic, but not enough to cause irritation in the vaginal area, as long as it is first diluted in water. To prepare the bath, add 2 to 3 cups of apple cider vinegar to your bath--a shallow one will do. Sit in the vinegar-water solution for about 20 minutes to achieve results. This bath soak may help restore your vagina’s pH levels and provide relief for the symptoms of the vaginal infection.

Healthy Hair
Apple cider vinegar can be added to shampoo and conditioner as well. Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits recommends you use it as a hair rinse for a natural cleansing and moisturizing shampoo. Apple cider vinegar can be effective at getting rid of hair build-up, leaving it softer and shinier. To make the hair rinse, mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 quart of water. Use it as your final rinse after you shampoo your hair.

Alkaline Diet Plan

Consuming a diet that is high in acid-forming foods and low in alkaline foods is a contributing factor in many common health problems and degenerative diseases, says Felicia Drury Kliment, author of "The Acid Alkaline Balance Diet." The standard American diet, however, contains mostly acid-forming foods. Following an alkaline diet plan for optimal health involves both reducing the consumption of acid-forming foods and eating more alkaline-yielding foods.

Acid and Alkaline Balance
Kliment states that optimal bodily function relies on the correct balance of acid and basic, or alkaline, particles in the blood, lymph, urine and other bodily fluids. If too much acid accumulates in a particular part of the body, nearby organs can malfunction or degenerate. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, excessive acid in the body, or acidosis, can also be caused by alcohol, excessive exercise, low blood sugar or certain medications.

Effects of Acidosis
According to The Paleo Diet web site, acidosis is related to osteoporosis, heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, stroke, asthma and other health problems. When your diet contains more acids than alkalis, your body must buffer the acids with alkaline stores in the bones and muscles. Calcium and magnesium, alkaline minerals, are released from the bones, which can lead to bone loss over time.

Alkaline-Forming Foods
To encourage the proper pH level in your body, eat a diet that is high in fresh fruits and vegetables. The most alkaline-forming foods are raisins, spinach and dates. Apricots, kiwi, black currants, bananas, cherries, celery, zucchini and tomatoes are also highly alkaline forming. Natural News recommends eating a diet in which 1/3 of your total calories come from fruits and vegetables.

Acid-Forming Foods
Meat, dairy and most grains are acid-forming foods, but you do not have to give up these foods completely in order to follow an alkaline diet plan. The Paleo Diet recommends eating only lean meat, fish and seafood. Trim your meat of all visible fat. Limit your consumption of hard cheeses, bread, pasta, salty foods and soda.

Testing Your pH Level
To find out if your body is alkaline or acidic, you can use pH strips at home to test your saliva and urine. When you wake up in the morning, place some saliva on a test strip and compare the resulting color to the pH color chart included with the strips. You can also urinate on a strip or collect your urine in a glass cup. For best results, Natural News recommends testing your pH levels for 10 days. Omit your highest three and lowest three ratings, and average the remaining numbers. A neutral pH is 7; anything higher is alkaline. If your pH is too low, add more fruits and vegetables to your diet and retest in several weeks.

Grape Juice And High Blood Pressure

Evidence for grape juice having any impact on high blood pressure is contradictory, and the studies deal only with juice made from Concord grapes, and so it is not applicable to other types of grape juice. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reports that red and purple grape juice helps lower blood pressure, reduces cholesterol and your risk of blood clots. In other words, drinking grape juice may be as beneficial to your heart as red wine.

History of Grape Juice
Grape juice as an industry began when Thomas Welch, having read of the recent discovery of Dr. Louis Pasteur, wondered if heating the juice of freshly pressed grapes to the boiling point and then bottling it in sterilized bottles would allow him to make unfermented wine for his church's communion services. He succeeded. It was his son, Charles Welch, who turned the invention into a business, known to this day as Welch's. The type of grape the Welches chose to use was the Concord grape, an American variety developed by Ephraim Wales Bull in Concord, Massachusetts, in 1854.

Good For The Heart
The French Paradox refers to an observation that the French people have a low incidence of cardiovascular disease despite a diet high in fat and cholesterol. The effect has tentatively been linked to consumption of red wine, a beverage found to be rich in a complex family of compounds called phenols or polyphenols. As shown by Mullen in the April 2007 issue of "The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry," purple grape juice made with Concord grapes had the highest concentration of phenols of 13 fruit juices, whereas white grape juice had the lowest. What your own taste buds can tell you is juices high in polyphenols are more bitter and astringent.

Indirect Evidence
Mustali Dohadwala, in the November 2010 issue of "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," cited animal studies of grape juice and grape extracts lowering blood pressure in animal models. He also cited human studies demonstrating less artery stiffness and less risk of blood clotting. Theories of mechanism include increasing production of nitric oxide, which relaxes arteries, and reducing inflammation.

Direct Evidence
Two clinical trials directly measured the effect of drinking Concord grape juice on blood pressure. Dr. Dohadwala tested 20 ounces a day for eight weeks in mildly hypertensive adults and saw no benefit whatsoever compared with a calorie-matched placebo juice. Years earlier, Dr. YK Park reported in the spring issue of "Biofactors" that in a study conducted in South Korea, moderately hypertensive adults given 13 ounces of Concord grape juice a day for eight weeks had a 7 millimeters of mercury drop in systolic pressure and a 6 millimeters of mercury drop in diastolic blood pressure.

Concerns
With only two published human trials and contradictory results from those, there is no scientific consensus that Concord grape juice lowers blood pressure. Given that one of the recommendations from the American Heart Association is to lose weight, a juice that contains 150 calories per 8-ounce serving, all from sugar, has another strike against it beyond weak evidence. Yes, you can enjoy purple grape juice for its taste, just don't tell yourself you are in it for blood-pressure benefits.

Candida Diet for Vegans

Candida diets limit the intake of foods thought to serve as nutrition sources for candida, a type of yeast that occurs naturally on the skin and in the digestive and reproductive tracts. Excess candida in the body, a condition known as candidiasis, is believed by some practitioners of alternative medicine to cause bloating, fatigue, headaches, muscle pain, premenstrual syndrome and depression. Restricted foods on a candida diet include processed products and refined carbohydrates. With some careful planning, a vegan can follow most of the diet's guidelines, though it's best to consult a doctor before beginning. Not all medical experts, including the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, agree that candidiasis is a disease, or that it can be treated with a special diet.

Fill Up on Plant-Based Protein
Soy products such as tempeh, tofu and texturized vegetable protein, or TVP, are a vegan's best protein choices on a candida diet. Although beans and legumes typically make up the bulk of the average vegan's meals, those on a candida diet will need to limit themselves to 1 cooked cup each day, supposedly to limit the amount of carbohydrates available to the candida. Nuts and seeds such as almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, walnuts and pecans are allowed, but pistachios and peanuts should be avoided.

Plan on Plenty of Produce
The best carbohydrate sources for a vegan on a candida diet are fresh fruits and vegetables, since no type of grain, either refined or whole, is permitted. Choose fresh or frozen unsweetened fruit and nonstarchy vegetables such as asparagus, lettuce greens, eggplant, cucumber, cabbage, carrots, broccoli, onions, spinach and tomatoes. Dried fruit such as raisins, fruit juice and high-starch vegetables such as potatoes, yams and corn should be avoided since they cause the concentration of simple sugars in the blood to rise. Mushrooms are also not allowed, as they allegedly react harmfully with candida.

Choose Calcium-Rich Dairy Replacements
Individuals on a candida diet are usually advised to eat plain, unsweetened cow, goat or sheep yogurt that contains live Lactobacillus acidophilus cultures to help control the growth of candida. Vegans cannot substitute commercial soy yogurt because it contains sweeteners such as honey, agave syrup and amazake. According to the Functional Medicine Research Center, vegans can obtain the calcium their bodies need to build and repair their bones and teeth by choosing acceptable brands of soy milk and soy cheese. Soy milk should not include sweeteners such as brown rice syrup, and allowed soy cheeses should not contain modified food starch or maltodextrin.

Choose Oils and Condiments Carefully
Vegans can cook with vegetable oils such as olive, canola, almond, avocado, sesame and flax seed. All low-sodium, sugar-free herbs, spices and seasoning mixes can be used to prepare and flavor food, along with freshly squeezed lemon and lime juice. Vinegar and any other type of fermented or pickled foods, such as kimchee and sauerkraut, should be avoided since they are thought to serve as a food source for candida. If you want to use an artificial sweetener for your herbal tea -- you should avoid coffee and regular tea -- use stevia.

Herbal Remedies for Sexual Enhancement

Sexual dysfunction encompasses a variety of embarrassing or unpleasant symptoms that affect the most intimate time you spend with your partner. Premature or delayed ejaculation and erectile dysfunction can be problematic for men, while women may experience vaginal dryness and waning sexual desire. The University of Maryland Medical Center says sexual dysfunction can have a physiological or psychological cause--or sometimes both. Herbal remedies may enhance your sex life, but the UMMC stresses the importance of working with your doctor to make sure your problem is diagnosed correctly before using complementary and/or alternative therapies.

Ginkgo
The leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree have been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Although its effects haven't been studied extensively, one of its suggested uses is for circulatory disorders, so it may be beneficial for men experiencing sexual dysfunction, says the UMMC. Ginkgo may make blood-thinning medications even stronger, so if you're using one, talk to your doctor before trying ginkgo.

Saw Palmetto and Pygeum Africanum
A combination of saw palmetto and Pygeum africanum may be beneficial for men whose sexual dysfunction is related to prostate problems, says the UMMC. The University of Michigan Health System says from the 1870s until the 1950s, saw palmetto was recognized as a way to treat prostate problems such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) until it was no longer recognized as a medication in the United States. A limited number of clinical trials studying saw palmetto preparations showed it resulted in fewer erection problems, although it was less effective than the prescription medication finasteride. Talk with your doctor before using saw palmetto and Pygeum africanum, especially if you have BPH or a similar condition.

Yohimbe
The active constituent in yohimbe opens up the blood vessels, and according to the University of Michigan Health System, there's fairly good clinical evidence to support this herbal remedy for erectile dysfunction men. The UMMC says this chemical, hydrochloride, is markedly similar to those found in prescription medications used for this purpose. Women whose sexual arousal is flagging may benefit from a combination of yohimbe and arginine, another herb. The UMMC stresses the importance of speaking to your doctor before using yohimbe; this herbal remedy interacts with numerous medications and contraindicates with many medical conditions. Taking too much can be dangerous.

Herbal Combinations
The UMMC says a supplement called ArginMax may be helpful for women who've lost their libido. ArginMax contains a variety of herbs, such as arginine, ginseng, ginkgo and damaina, and other vitamins and minerals. The UMMC cautions that arginine can have an effect on blood sugar levels and blood pressure, so get your doctor's consent before using it.

Cautions & Concerns
Herbal remedies are classified as dietary supplements by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. They cannot purport to treat or cure any specific medical condition; also, the quality of the product you select is not guaranteed. Natural herbal remedies also can interact with medications and act to your detriment if you have a certain medical condition. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medication says several herbal remedies that purport to treat erectile dysfunction have been recalled by the FDA because of safety concerns. Speak with your doctor to make sure the herbal remedy you choose is safe for you.

How to Naturally Lose Belly Fat in One Week

Whether you're headed to the beach, prepping for a special occasion or just want to jump-start a healthier lifestyle, you can set the foundation for belly fat loss in a week. And while you likely won't reach your final weight loss goals in a week -- unless you're only looking to lose a pound or two -- you might be able to see minor differences and burn some initial belly fat. However, the results from diet and exercise modifications can keep you motivated to stick to longer term goals, and they'll set you on a road to success -- without the high risk of weight regain associated with fad crash diets.

Set Realistic One-Week Goals
Set yourself up to lose excess belly fat by setting realistic goals. You won't be able to lose fat exclusively from your belly -- it will come from all over your body, including your midsection -- or shed 20 pounds in just a week. You can, however, lose 1 to 2 pounds of fat to start slimming your midsection, using sustainable methods that'll allow for larger weight loss over longer periods of time.

Your first step? Figure out an appropriate calorie intake target. You'll want to eat slightly fewer calories than you burn daily to start torching body fat -- about 500 to 1,000 calories fewer. That small calorie deficit allows you to burn fat, but it won't generally trigger "starvation mode" that would lead to muscle loss over time.

Use an adult energy needs calculator to estimate your calorie intake needs; then subtract the 500 to 1,000 calories for weight loss. For example, a 28-year-old woman who is 5 foot, 9-inches tall weighs 175 pounds and is lightly active -- less than an hour a day -- burns about 2,400 calories daily. She'll burn about 2 pounds of fat in a week if she eats 1,400 calories daily, or 1 pound a week if she eats 1,900 calories a day.

Stay Full With Low Energy-Density Foods
It's normal to feel a few hunger pangs when you cut your calorie intake, but you don't want to feel ravenous. Filling your diet with low energy-density foods -- ones that have a low calorie count per gram -- allows you to fill up on larger portions while controlling your calorie intake. Many of these foods also supply water and fiber, which can make you feel full, to help with weight loss.

Load up on low energy density foods, like vegetables, fruits and fat-free broths. A few minor tweaks can lower the energy density of your favorite meals, too. For example, substitute a half-cup of spaghetti and a half-cup of spiralized zucchini "zoodles" for a full cup of spaghetti. Or make a chicken, vegetable and brown rice soup instead of serving grilled chicken with brown rice and veggies; the broth is often very low or virtually free of calories, lowering the energy density of your meal, so you may fill up on fewer calories.

Exercise Away Belly Fat
Boost your overall health and shed excess belly fat by adding exercise to your weekly routine. Any exercise you do -- whether that's a structured workout at the gym or an informal brisk walk around your neighborhood -- utilizes calories, so you'll burn more body fat.

But you'll lose the most fat by doing HIIT, or high-intensity interval training. This training technique involves working at full throttle for short intervals -- typically 10 seconds to a minute -- then recovering at a slow pace or resting for a minute or two. It increases your metabolism after a workout, since your muscles need to work hard to get "back to normal." HIIT also burns more belly fat than traditional, steady-pace cardio, according to Penn State University.

After you're thoroughly warmed up, increase the intensity for 30 seconds -- enough that you're out of breath by the end of the interval -- then recover at a slow pace for 90 seconds. Repeat those intervals 10 to 15 times; then cool down. Allow for 48 hours recovery between each HIIT workout to avoid overtraining.

Avoid Damaging Diets
Your best bet for blasting belly fat is slow, steady weight loss -- not instant one-week results. Steer clear of diets promising double-digit weight loss in just a week or diets that cut out entire food groups or require you to eat just a couple foods. These are typically fad diets that aren't sustainable -- so you're likely to regain any lost weight -- and such diet plans might even interfere with your ability to lose fat in the long run, explains the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Instead, pair a balanced diet with exercise for slower weight loss. Keep your metabolism revving with a moderate calorie restriction, which is above 1,200 calories for women and above 1,800 calories for men. You'll feel more satisfied and energetic and get better results in the long run for a beach-ready bod.

Are There Natural Flu Remedies?

Influenza -- known commonly as the flu -- is a viral infection that affects between 5 and 20 percent of the U.S. population each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Because influenza is a virus, it does not respond to antibiotics, but there are natural alternatives to treat the flu that include herbs, diet and lifestyle changes. If you think you have the flu, its best to work with your doctor or other qualified health care professional before self-medicating with herbs.

Antiviral Elderberry
Elderberry -- also called Sambucus nigra -- is the premier herbal antiviral treatment for influenza. According to a small study published in “The Journal of International Medicine Research” in 2004, elderberry syrup reduced the duration of the flu by four days compared with the placebo. Research published in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” revealed that elderberry syrup improved the symptoms of influenza in 93.3 percent of cases within two days, while in the control group 91.7 percent of patients took six days to experience symptom relief. Elderberry has also proven to be useful in treating secondary bacterial infections that can cause severe complications during an acute influenza infection such as bacterial pneumonia, according to a study published in “BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine” in February 2011.

Other Herbal Allies
Herbs can also be used to lower fever naturally without the side-effects common to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Diaphoretic herbs open the pores and stimulate sweating when taken as a hot tea, which can lower fever without turning off the body's immune response. Diaphoretics include peppermint, ginger, boneset, yarrow and elder flower. The Chinese herbal formula Lianhua Qingwen appears to be as effective as pharmaceutical antiviral drugs at reducing the duration of influenza, according to research published in the “Chinese Medical Journal” in September 2011. Lomatium -- known also as biscuit root -- is an herb that was used by a number of Native American tribes to treat upper respiratory illnesses including influenza, according to herbalist Todd Caldecott.

Supplements
Influenza infections can also be treated and prevented by the addition of appropriate supplements. According to Dr. Mark Hyman, people with a vitamin D deficiency are 11 times more likely to get a cold or the flu, and supplementing with vitamin D can reduce colds and flu by up to 42 percent. Dr. Joseph Mercola recommends that adults take an average of 5,000 international units of vitamin D-3 per day during the cold and cloudy winter months to support the immune system. Research published in the “Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics” revealed that large doses of vitamin C -- 1,000 milligrams per hour for the first day and three times daily thereafter -- relieved and prevented flu symptoms compared with the control group.

Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
It is important to drink plenty of fluids and to keep the mucous membranes moist by using a saline wash or humidifier to prevent the flu, according to Hyman. He also recommends avoiding simple sugars, because refined sugar is known to suppress immunity. Eat plenty of fresh whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts seeds and legumes. Spices such as garlic, ginger, onions and turmeric can support immunity and act as antimicrobial agents, according to Hyman. Adequate sleep, healthy physical activity and managing stress are all important lifestyle considerations for preventing and treating influenza.

Benefits of Black Grapes in Weight Loss

Black grapes, also sometimes known as Concord grapes or slipskin grapes, are sold fresh or made into fresh juice, jams or jellies. They are rich in a number of nutrients, including natural antioxidants, and can be part of a healthy diet that reduces the number of calories you consume, helping you lose weight.

Calorie Content
Fresh black grapes are low in calories, with a 1-cup serving containing only 62 calories and less than 1/2 gram of total fat. While you can eat the grapes whole and raw, making a fresh juice from them by blending 1 cup of grapes with 1/2 cup of fresh water will give you 1 cup of fresh juice that is lower in calories than a commercially produced grape juice, even if unsweetened. One cup of commercial grape juice has 152 calories per serving and also less than 1/2 gram of total fat. Substituting whole grapes or fresh grape juice for a 12-ounce can of grape soda once a week can reduce your caloric intake by over 5,000 calories, or roughly 1.5 pounds of body weight, in the space of one year.

Dietary Fiber Content
Black grapes are a good source of dietary fiber, which gives bulk to your diet, helping you eat less.Dietary fiber can also help reduce the symptoms of constipation as well as lower your blood cholesterol levels. A serving of black grapes has 0.8 gram of dietary fiber, a high amount for the small serving size. This provides 2 to 3 percent of the recommended dietary intake and can help you meet the daily recommendation, which is important as most Americans have a diet that is too low in fiber.

Sugar Content
Black grapes are naturally sweet, with almost 15 grams per cup. The American Heart Association recommends you choose natural sugars, such as those found in grapes, over added sugars because natural sugars have greater nutritive impact. Because of their natural sweetness, you can use grapes as a healthy way to satisfy a sweet tooth or sugar craving. In addition to eating them fresh, you can also freeze grapes and eat them as a refreshing, low-calorie and sweet dessert, substituting them for other foods, such as ice cream or cake, that are often high in added sugar.

Antioxidants and Fruit Intake
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends eating between 1 1/2 and 2 cups of fruit each day as part of a balanced diet, which is important for healthy weight loss. Black grapes are also a rich source of the natural antioxidant resveratrol, a type of flavonoid. In 2011, the "Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences" published a report that stated that diets high in resveratrol led to overall reduced body fat levels as well as a decrease in overall weight gain.