Home Remedy Super Rich Cream Face Mask For Dry Skin.

Ingredients:
Milk Cream
Cotton
Nourishing Oil
Lukewarm Water.

Apply milk cream on the face and neck. Saturate thin layers of cotton with a nourishing oil and draw cotton pads lightly on the face and neck over the layer of milk cream. Leave it on for 30 minutes. Thereafter, rinse with lukewarm water.

Milk cream nourishes the dry skin and supplies suffecient oil to the dry skin so that it can maintain its oil balance. If oil balance is maintained, the occurrence of wrinkles or age sopts will be minimized to an extent.

A Giveaway?

Here I am, sitting, half asleep, thinking if I should give something away?  How about a one-week raw food cleanse guide?  

No tricks, no gimmicks. I would give a copy to everyone who leaves a comment. 

What do you, my readers, think? Tell me by leaving a comment under this post.

Home Remedy Lemon And Egg Face Mask For Oily Skin.

Both the indgredients of this face mask are good for oily skin. Egg tightens the skin pores and so oil balance is maintained. Lemon is also known to reduce oiliness of the skin and also lightens skin blemishes if any.

To prepare this face mask mix egg white with a few drops of lemon juice. Apply it all over your face and neck. Leave it on for about 15 minutes. To wash off this face mask, boil lemon peels in water and allow it to cool. Do this sometime prior to applying the face mask so that by the time we have to use, it should be cool.
Wash off your face mask with this water and it acts as an astringent.
This face mask if applied regularly tightens the skin and makes it wrinkle free. It also makes the skin clear from blemishes or dark spots.

Spreading Joy and Gladness {Giveway of Raw Dessert ebooks}

I was totally floored by the gesture of a fellow blogger.  Ingram of Raw Epicurean is giving away two of her amazing RAW VEGAN recipe e-books.  I personally jumped on the bandwagon and typed in my comment as quickly as my fingers would move.  Then I was ready to close my browser and head off to bed... but I felt almost guilty for not spreading the love.  Although I posted her giveaway announcement on Twitter and Facebook,  I would be amiss not to let my dear readers know too.  So, I am redeeming myself. 

HURRY UP AND HEAD ON OVER to Raw Epicurean and enter your information and tell Ingram whether you would like one or both of the e-books. I tried her raw cookie recipes before and they are amazing.  Go on, click on the link. You have until tomorrow, November 30th at 11:00 am, Pacific Standard Time to enter.

and 

Happy Holidays!

Spinach/Pomegranate Salad with Cranberry Dressing {Vegan}

Hi, gang!  Hope everyone is doing well and staying well during the onset of the winter season.  If you have not yet read how I stay well and fight flues and colds, you absolutely MUST to protect yourselves. I promise you that what I talk about is tried and true--I just got over a cold in less than 48 hours myself!  YES, you can beat a cold in 2 days NATURALLY!  No fever, coughing, sneezing or a runny nose in under 48 hours, just like I planned! [I did not plan getting sick, of course ;)!]

You can read following articles to learn the trick of the trade: Comfort Food--Vegan Bread Pudding, Staying Well During the Flu and Cold Season and Treating Colds and Flues Naturally. It is certainly not something your doctor will tell you about, but it sure works like a charm every time.

Today, in preparation for a full day and later on teaching a power yoga class I started off my morning with a healing green smoothie and then a vegan bread pudding [you can find recipes for both in yesterday's post: Comfort Food--Vegan Bread Pudding].

For lunch I whipped up a delicious duo: home-made Spaghetti with Chunky Veggies and Spinach/Pomegranate Salad with Cranberry dressing.

Would you like to know HOW to make these?  I bet you would!  Especially the salad :)

So, here we go.

Spaghetti with Chunky Veggies

• 1 bag whole wheat pasta, cooked to your liking

• 1 jar of your favorite organic vegan pasta sauce [I used Eggplant sauce made by Whole Foods in-house brand 365]
• 1/2 large eggplant, cubed into 3/4-1 inch squares
• 1 red bell pepper cubed into 1/2 inch [or smaller] squares
• 1 yellow onion cubed, or cut to your liking
• 2 zucchinis, cubed into 3/4-1 inch squares
• 4 tbs olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 3/4-1 tbsp your favorite seasoning [I use Kirkland's organic blend]
• any one of your favorite herb for garnish

1. Pour oil and add remaining ingredients, except for pasta sauce and garnish herb into a frying pan;
2. Turn the stove on HIGH until veggies begin to sizzle, then reduce to medium high
3. Stir once in a while, sauteing for 5-10 mins
4. Add pasta sauce and simmer for 5 minutes
5. Serve on top of prepared pasta, garnishing with cilantro, parsley or dill. 

Spinach/Pomegranate Salad with Cranberry Dressing

Salad Ingredients

• 3 LARGE handful of spinach, washed and chopped
• 1 cup chickpeas
• seeds of 1/2 pomegranate
• 1/2-3/4 cup raisins

Dressing Ingredients

• 3-4 tbsp freshly made cranberry sauce [I make mine with: cranberries, honey and lemon grind]
• 2 tbsp olive oil [optional]
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbs soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey

1. Shake all ingredients until well combined
2. Pour over your salad and ENJOY with your freshly made spaghetti!

Have a fantastic day!

Home Remedy Egg And Honey Face Pack Reduces Wrinkles And Moisturizes Skin.

Before starting with the preparation of the face pack remember for oily skin use egg white and for dry skin use egg yolk.

Beat egg white or egg yolk depending upon your skin type with 1/2 tsp of honey and apply it on your face and neck. Leave it for 10 mins and then wash it off with cold water. Egg acts as an astringent and honey as a natural moisturizer.

If you have black/brown spots or blemishes on your face then you can also add a few drops of lemon juice to this pack. it lightens the blemishes.

If you have a problem of wrinkles then apply simply egg white all over your face and neck. It has been proved to be very useful in tightening skin.

Milk powder can also be added along with egg and honey for a glowing skin and better skin complexion.

Comfort Food: Vegan Bread Pudding

I rarely get sick... ever!  A few weeks ago my husband and I visited his family in NJ and he, as brilliant as he is and as much as I love him, made a fatal mistake right BEFORE the trip--he worked out at a gym and went outside without enough coverage to protect his body, while the temperatures outside were dropping.  So, as you can imagine he got sick... while we were traveling!   No big deal. [right... ;(].  We got him feeling well in only a couple of days.  

You would think that he had learned his lesson!  But NO!  He did the same thing again... right before Thanksgiving!  As a result he came down with a cold.  Now, I have a strong immune system and my diet is impeccable, but when hubster gets sick, no matter what with, he ends up with the worst dry cough.  Both of us were getting little to no sleep because of it, while I was still teaching fitness classes.  And, although I took care of me the best I could, my body could no longer take the abuse and I ended up with his bug--talk about sharing. 

[hubster was cared for by me, so, even in spite of my best practices--no sugars while sick--I got suckered into baking him an apple pie (recipe can be found in the Guilt Free Delicious Vegan Desserts e-book)]

After teaching a power yoga class yesterday morning I got home and still cleaned the house, but then I developed a headache, then the body ache and a fever and then I knew--I am in for a ride. 

Thank God that I have a few tricks up my sleeve (read Staying Well During the Flu and Cold Season and Treating Colds and Flus Naturally).  I was drinking green smoothies, my health elixirs and mixtures and downing oregano oil as if it was my only hope. 

[I normally buy Oreganol's wild Oregano oil, which comes out to a whopping $30+tax for only 1 oz, but this week I lucked out when I stopped by Raisin Rack in Westerville OH and found their in-house brand for HALF the price!  Just imagine my excitement!]

I hate being sick because I despise being slowed down for any reason.  Yesterday, however, I spent most of the day on a couch in front of a TV.  By the end of the day I was too tired of sitting down and too sick of television, so I cleaned the house [again] and then decided to glam myself up for a mini self-portrait session. 

The excitement was short-lived though and I was craving all kind of foods.  Thankfully I was easily satisfied with our Thanksgiving leftovers: potato salad, mashed potatoes and gravy, Asian salad that I make and freshly made cranberry sauce.  I was still trying to behave though--no sugars and lots of green smoothies. 

Today [yes, I know, you get to read my boring sick story ;)] I endured only a couple of hours of hanging out on a couch before I rebelled and started to clean every nook and cranny, then fully unpacked the office, scrubbed every surface, did laundry, made myself a smoothie and lunch, and finally, by 4 pm crashed with 100 F fever.  BUT... I felt better about being productive. 

The appetite was non-existent compared to yesterday, but by evening I was craving comfort food.  So finally, at about 7 pm I succumbed to my internal pressure, pulled out bread stuffing leftovers [I made it with celery and cranberries], mixed it with a bit of barley soup I cooked up yesterday [I know it sounds crazy, but bear with me], added coconut creamer, water, baking soda and flour and baked myself yummy bread pudding.  I initially wanted to make it savory, but hubby, having his sweet tooth as usual, requested sweet bread puddin'.

Let me tell you, folks, it turned out fabulous!

On the first round I topped it with Toffuti's Better Than Cream Cheese, on the second round I splashed it with fresh cranberry sauce and Toffuti's Better Than Sour Cream and... my taste buds were in heaven.  I still wish I made half of it savory, but no deep regrets here.  Leftovers, at times, turn out to taste even better than the original dishes. :)

I have a plan to be fully recovered by tomorrow, in time to teach my 5:30 pm power yoga class, so, more Oregano Oil and more fluids for me, along with me health elixirs.  Here is a recipe of one of my Ninja Smoothies that Kills Flues and Colds on a Fly :)

• 1-2 cups water
• 2-3 cloves garlic
• 1 finger ginger root
• 1 tsp algae
• 1 ripe pear or banana
• 3 large kale leaves

If this does not get you well I am not sure what will :)

Stay well!

Home Remedy Use Papaya On Your Skin For Skin Whitening.

Papaya can not only be used for skin whitening, but it also has many other skin care properties. Some of which I will discuss below:

Papaya can be used for skin peeling. Rub the inside of the peel part of papaya on your skin and rinse after 15 mins. It has a light peeling effect on the skin.

Papaya when applied on skin also reduces the age spots and other blemishes.

Papaya also exfoliates the skin by removing dead skin cells and also helps in overcoming skin damage.

Papaya also lightens the sun burns and helps in skin rejuvenation.

Papaya deep cleanses the skin by removing the dirt from within the skin pores. Hence it makes the skin more healthier.

Papaya also helps in reduction of wrinkles by removing the old skin cells.

Papaya also reduces acne if applied regularly.

Apply Water Melon On Face For Skin Tightening And Avoid Wrinkles.

Water Melon is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin B and Vitamin C, so it is very good for our body. But the use of water melon is not only restricted to eating, it can also be applied to our skin. It works wonders on our skin, if applied in a right manner.

 Water melon acts as a very good skin tightener. Take thin slices of water melon and squeeze lemon on them.
Refrigerate until cold and apply on face and neck. Allow it to remain on the face for 15 mins and then splash cold water on the face. The water melon juice tightens the skin and avoids wrinkles, whereas lemon helps in removing the blemishes.

Water melon also helps to exfoliate the skin. Water melon when mashed with banana and applied to the skin, makes the skin soft and supple. It exfoliates the skin and removes the dead cells.

 Water Melon pulp mixed with yoghurt also helps to exfoliate the skin. Yoghurt has lactic acid in it which removes the dead cells and also lightens the blemishes.

 Water Melon scrub can be made by adding gram flour into the water melon juice. Use it as a face scrub and you can feel the difference.

 Mix water melon and cucumber pulp in equal quantity and apply on face and neck. Leave it for 15 mins. Then wash it off with cold water.

 Try out these home remedies and if you need any help regarding skin problems feel free to contact me.
Please leave a comment if you liked my post.

Prepare Your Skin For This Winter By Some Home Remedies And Following Some Simple Skin Care Methods.

Winter is a season where in our skin needs a lot of care and attention. If we avoid taking care of our skin during winter, our skin will become prone to wrinkles, ageing and a lot of skin damage. Cold winds irritate and chap the surface vessels of the skin and the natural production of oils slow down. Following are the specific ways to care for your skin in winter:

Give up all drying agents like astringents and soaps. Instead use a  moisterizer if your skin is oily and gets dry in winter.

Those with dry skin should make it a habit to cream face and hands before going to bed. As dry skin is prone to wrinkles so it acts as an anti ageing formula.

In winter your skin loses water and essential oils. You can replenish them by adding a few drops of oil to water while bathing. It will nourish the skin and is a very good home remedy.

Don't bath before going out or immediately upon returning. Any sudden temperature changes will disturb the moisture balance of your skin.

It is always best and recommended to wash face with warm water.

For lips use vaseline or cream before applying lipstick. It will heal the chapped lips by providing sufficient moisture to the skin.

For hairs, use gentle shampoo and conditioner. It is always best to use herbal products as chemicals damage the hairs.

Take hot oil treatment once a week. Rub hot oil and massage gently on the scalp. Steam with hot towel as it will let the scalp to absorb oil.

Cleanse face with milk cream, few drops of lime and a pinch of turmeric every morning.

For those with very flaky skin, every night before going to bed take 1 tsp of milk cream and add few drops of glycerine and rose water. Apply on face, neck and hands. Leave overnight and in the morning wipe it out with a tissue. Then rinse the face with warm water.

Try out these tips and you will feel your skin to be more soft and young than before.

Everyday Skin Care Tips For Oily And Dry Skin To Have A Beautiful Glowing Skin.

Normal skin is not a matter of worry. But oily and dry skin needs lot of care and attention. Here I have mentioned some easy to follow tips for a better skin care. First we will go for oily skin and later on with dry skin.

Oily Skin: It is the main cause of clogged pores, blackheads and pimples. To clear up oiliness, follow these habits.
     Cut out dried food.
     Drink minimum 8 glasses of water.
     Deep cleanse the face in the morning.
     Use mild soap, not oil based.
     Apply astringent as it closes pores and reduces oiliness. Apply more and more to areas where shine most often appears.
     Wash your face atleast 3 to 4 times a day.
     Every time you go out and return wash your face.

Dry Skin: It has fine texture and can be very pretty if treated gently and in a right manner.
     It needs moisture, so should be moisturized properly.
     Be on guard against sun and cold winds.
     Avoid soap.
     Cleanse with a cream in the morning and splash cold water.
     Apply skin freshner with cotton pads.
     Apply moisturizer before applying make up.

Not Missing and Pear/Collard Greens Smoothie

I am not MIA, I promise.  I am still pulling things together from our recent trip to New Jersey/New York.  I am still unpacking and keeping busy with my photography business [and loving it].  I am also teaching five [yes five] Power Yoga classes a week to book [you can find me at Aspen Fitness in Reynoldsburg OH!].  I am still "making house"--unpacking and settling in.  Things look like I might have a few moments this week to do a few posts with some recipes.  So, I will chat with you all SOON! :)

[an image from our trip to NY (Time Square)] 

[a friend of mine and I traveled to an IKEA store in Cincinnati where I bought three gorgeous bookshelves, and they are now almost set up! just a few more boxes to unpack, a couple of pictures/paintings to hang and my office will be officially open for business ;)]

[meanwhile we have been eating fabulously at home... 

...and on the trip in NY]

Enjoy this delicious green smoothie: 

Pear/Collard Greens Smoothie

• 2-3 cups of water or water kefir
• 1/4 cup George's aloe vera [optional]
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 large ripe pear
• 1 orange, peeled and seeded
• 3-4 large collard greens leaves
• 1 cup cilantro greens
• 1-2 tbsp dulse flakes
• 2 tbsp hemp seeds

The taste is amazing!  Enjoy it and Stay well!

Plant Based {Vegan} Cooking Class in Dublin OH

Mark you calendars, Ohioans!   I will be holding a plant based [vegan] cooking class in 3 weeks in Dublin OH. 

DETAILS

WHEN: November19, 2010; 7-9:30 pm

WHERE: Dublin, OH [exact address will be provided to all registered]

WHAT: You will partake of a 2-course meal*:

1. Ratatouille [no, it is not a dish that was invented for a movie :)].  Learn how to make nutrient and vitamin rich delicious dish that will melt in your mouth.  

2. My Secret Apple Pie!

Refreshments will also be served! I might even teach you how to make rejuvenating, energy boosting Smoothies for the whole family—the kind that will give you a jump start and heal your body at the same time;

All ORGANIC ingredients!

Please notify me if you have any FOOD ALLERGIES!

The class is a perfect excuse to have a DATE night, to hang out with a friend, or just get away by yourself to indulge in a scrumptious meal and learn a few healthful tricks. We will make the meal together, so you can have a hands-on learning experience and know how to do it on your own.  I will also tell you all about the benefits of a plant-based diet, and feed you a 2 course meal!

HOW: You can register on-line or in person [contact me for the second method}

COST: $35 per person. Space is limited to 10 people.

TO REGISTER: If you are viewing this post on EHBH blog you will have an option right under this paragraph to register via PayPal. If you are getting this through RSS feed, click on this link: REGISTER.

$35 per person

That is how simple it is!

SCHOLARSHIPS

A very generous donor wanted to make it possible for 3 people who otherwise could not afford to come to learn life-saving cooking techniques to do just that! 

I am offering 3 partial scholarships:

• Two scholarships--$25 each
• One scholarship--$30

To apply for scholarships, please e-mail me directly.

I hope to see you there!

Follow These Hair Removal Steps For A Perfect Shave Without Any Rashes........

My today's post is both for my male and female visitors as all of us are involved in shaving. Shaving is one such thing, if not done properly will leave your skin with rashes and cuts. So to avoid this skin damage, I have mentioned here some easy and simple tips which would help you get a perfect shave and also take care of your skin.


The very first and the most important thing to keep in mind is not to shave as soon as you wake up. You may have noticed your puffy and swollen face every morning you wake up. It is because of the body fluids that get collected beneath the skin during night. It will prevent you from getting a clean and smooth shave.

Use a sharp blade for shaving, dont use a dull blade. A dull blade will always result in redness of skin, cuts, soreness of skin and rashes.

Prior to shaving it is always important to exfoliate your skin with a cleansing lotion or a mild scrub. Exfoliation removes the dead cells and also opens the pores resulting in a close and a clean shave.

Always shave in the direction of hair growth. Shaving in the opposite direction leads to redness, rashes, razor burn and a lot of skin damage.
 
 

The regrowth of the shaven hair should be shaved properly. They should be softened with warm or hot water before shaving. It gives a close and a clean shave.

Also the shaving cream should be massaged thoroughly on to the regrown hairs to avoid cuts and rashes. A conditioner can also be used for other body parts.


It is always advisable to use aloe-vera and vitamin e oil based shaving cream. Even after shaving massage the area with an aloe-vera and vitamin e oil based body cream, it soothes the skin and also moisturizes it well.
 
For any information on skin care please contact me, It would be my pleasure to help you out.

Coconut Bliss Ice Cream Winner & Rainbow Chard Green Smoothie

Mr. Random.org helped me to make the decision :)  There were 24 entries for the drawing... and the winner is:

#22 entry was from Melanie Swan

Melanie, shoot me an e-mail with your address and I will send you a coupon for a box of Coconut Bliss bars :)  You will just have to come back and tell us what you got and how you liked it :)  Congratulations!

For the rest, thank you for your entries :)  I hope to make it up to you with this refreshing Green Smoothie recipe:

Rainbow Chard Green Smoothie

• 2 cups water or water kefir
• 1 large Fuji apple, cored
• 2-3 very large rainbow chard leaves
• 2 inch long ginger root, peeled
• 1 tbs maca root powder

The smoothie, because of ginger in it, has a little kick to it, so it's not for the faint of heart :)

Good day to all!

Simple And Easy To Do Home Remedies For Hair Care.

First of all, I would apologize my visitors for not posting anything new from the past few days. I was actually on a long vacaion, but now I am back and assure you will get to know something new everyday. So lets start with our todays post, which deals with your hairs.In todays busy world our schedules are so hectic that we hardly can spare any time on our hairs. But today I will discuss some very easy and very simple ways and tips to take care of your hair. You dont need to shed lots of money as you all know, I always suggest home remedies rather than any chemical and expensive treatment.

1) The very easy and effective one is applying egg yolk to your scalp and hairs half an hour prior to your head wash. You can also add some honey to it. Egg yolk and honey gives a natural shine to your hairs and at the same time also reduces hair fall as egg yolk provides direct protein to hairs.

2) Same as egg yolk, apply curd half an hour prior to your head wash. It also reduces hair fall and gives a natural shine to the hair.

3) If you are tired of dandruff, then take some coconut oil and add few camphor tablets to it. Dissolve it completly and then apply the oil to your scalp and massage it well. Leave it for a night and wash it off the next morning.
4) Apply carrot juice to hairs. Wash it off after 15 minutes and feel the difference.
5) You can also apply a paste of banana and honey for half an hour. It also adds shine and nourishes your hair.
6) If you go to gym regularly, you have to clean your scalp well after your workout. This is one thing most of the people ignore.
7) Take a balanced diet and sleep for atleast 7 to 8 hours, which is very necessary.

I would also like to share my own experience. Few months back I was also suffering from severe hair loss. Then I used a homeopathic hair oil which is made of Arnica, Jaborandi and Calendula. I applied it twice a week at night and washed it off the other morning applying egg yolk half an half prior as mentioned above. It really helped and now my hairs are back to the same volume.

If you have any querries regarding skin care, hair care or your whole body care, feel free to contact me. If you want me to discuss about any other home remedy please write to me. I would be glad to help you out.

Power Yoga Classes in Reynoldsburg OH & Other Things

Power Yoga Classes

BIG Announcement first :)

It's on! My training schedule at the new facility is official. Anyone on Columbus metro area with membership at Aspen Fitness will have access to my classes.

As of next week [starting 11/15]I will be teaching Power Yoga at the Reynoldsburg OH location of Aspen Fitness.  Make sure to come out to one or all of these classes:

Monday: 5:30 pm

Tuesday: 11 am and 5:30 pm

Thursday: 5:30 pm

Saturday: 9:30 am

You will discover and train muscles you did not know you had, meanwhile becoming more flexible and toned.

Power Yoga classes are very upbeat, encompassing cardio, flexibility and strength training. It is also great for weight loss!

So, mark your calendars and make sure to come out starting 11/15/10 to Aspen Fitness off 7064 East Main Street, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068-2010.  Come yourself and tell others!

The membership fees are only $10-19 per month [depending what you choose]!  It's a brand new facility and classes are included at no additional charge!

Feel free to contact me for any details.

__________________________________________________________

Unpacking and What I learned About Myself

So, we ditched our new/old place that we moved to when we came to Ohio.  It simply did not sit well with us and was not US...  We love feeling comfy and cozy and we love to entertain, but the place where we were was anything but conducive to that. So... we bit the bullet, paid our dues and moved out to a better place in Dublin OH.  

The move was anything short of crazy.  We moved to a place on a third floor :(, AND I booked a photo session for the same day.  No, it was not intended, but just happened that way.

Thankfully we had a couple of friends help us move.  The stairs, though, killed us all. 

I was determined, however, that we would have as much unpacking done as possible the first day [by we I mean me, because hubster had to work].  So, the day after I had the bedroom unpacked and set up, kitchen almost unpacked and living room... almost set up. 

 

I even cleared enough space to work out

My office is still all in boxes [what you see is books for the most part--a real chore to get to the 3rd floor!]

So, what have I learned?  Don't more to the third floor--hire movers, and don't try to be a superwoman--scheduling a session and a move on the same day is pretty much madness. 

As of today I made more progress--the living room is starting to look lovely. I just need to hang pictures and curtains.  I also ordered a brand new desk for my office and will go shopping for bookshelves next week [can't wait!].

All the while, though, we still enjoyed our delicious vegan foods: green smoothies, veggie wraps, vegan whole wheat pizza, brown rice and beans:

I hear that brown rice and bean combo is referred to as poor man's meat, because it is packed with protein, but I can tell you that it is so much better and leaves you feeling great, as opposed to going into a food induces coma. 

Today's Green Smoothie was fantastic!

Dandelion Green Smoothie

• 3 cups water
• 1/4 cup George's Aloe Vera
• 1 large bunch dandelion greens
• 2 bananas
• 2 oranges
• 1 fuji apple
• 2 tbs dulse flakes
• 2 tbs flax seeds
• 2 tbs raw cacao nibs

It was a great pre- and post- workout meal. 

__________________________________________________________ 

Vegan Cooking Class in Dublin OH & Coconut Bliss Giveaway

If you are in/around Columbus OH metro area, don't forget to sign up for a plant based cooking class, which will take place next Friday, 11/19 at 7 pm.  Only 5 spots are left.  Check out details here. 

Also, don't forget to enter a vegan ice cream giveaway, which ends tomorrow!

Until next time: Stay Well!

Gluten Free Diet

There was a time when having to eat a gluten free diet, meant a severe limitation of tasty choices. However, because of the rise in awareness for the need of gluten free products, manufacturers are stepping up their efforts to produce gluten free products. In fact, there are more gluten free products available now then there ever have been. Manufacturers will probably increase the numbers further as time progresses. If you do have to go on a gluten free diet, you don't have to worry too much about giving up your favorite foods. Chances are you'll be able to find a gluten free substitute. If you can't, there are a lot of quality gluten free recipes on the internet.

What is gluten?

Gluten is certain type of protein. Gluten is found in foods such as rye, wheat, and barley. Because most breads and cereals make use of these foods, they usually also contain gluten. Just because the food is a grain, doesn't necessarily mean it contains gluten. For example, wild rice, corn, buckwheat, millet, amaranth, quinoa, teff, soybeans and sunflower seeds don't contain gluten.

There is some controversy surrounding oats. There is conflicting reports about oats. Many processed foods contain gluten, because it is used as a food additive by many food manufacturers.

Who should be on a gluten free diet?

If you suffer from an autoimmune disorder of the small intestine, called celiac disease, you will most likely be put on a gluten free diet. Celiac disease is often misdiagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome. Some people have the disease but don't really show any outward symptoms. The most common symptoms of Celiac disease include: Chronic diarrhea, the inability to gain weight, unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, bone or joint pain, arthritis, depression or anxiety, tingling numbness in the hands and feet, seizures, canker sores, missed periods, itchy skin rash, and fatigue.

There are some people who suffer from fibromyalgia who claim a gluten free diet has helped alleviate some of their symptoms. If you suffer from fibromyalgia, you should discuss this option with your doctor. You may get some resistance from your doctor, because at this time, there hasn't been any major research into the effects of a gluten free diet on firbromyalgia. If you really want to try it, ultimately, it will be your decision. You just have to make sure with your doctor that you have no health issues that would preclude you from going on a gluten free diet, clear it with your doctor first.

People with diabetes may benefit from a gluten free diet. You have to be careful about going on a gluten free diet if you have diabetes. A lot of gluten free products add extra sugar or extra fat to make them taste better. It is extremely important you talk about going on a gluten free diet with your doctor or nutritionist before you consider going on a gluten free diet.

If your doctor says you have to go on a gluten free diet, or you want to and your doctor says its okay, then you will have many food choices still available to you. You just have to look at labels carefully. Manufacturers are producing more and more gluten free foods. If you have a craving for something that isn't gluten free, there are plenty of gluten free recipes on the internet. There are also many gluten free diet cook books available too.

GI Diet

Current info about the GI Diet is not always the easiest thing to locate. Fortunately, this report includes the latest GI Diet info available. It seems like new information is discovered about something every day. And the topic of weight loss is no exception. Keep reading to get more fresh news about weight loss and the GI Diet. You might have heard of the GI diet and wondered if it had anything to do with the nation's military forces. Actually, this meal plan is not connected with any branch of the armed services. But it is definitely an important part of the war on fat. By following the GI diet, you might be able to successfully fight the battle of the bulge.

To begin with, it is important to define our terms. GI refers to glycemic index. The GI measures just how quickly the body breaks apart food in order to develop glucose, which has been referred to as a major energy source for the body. The GI was the brainchild of Dr. David Jenkins, a nutritional expert at the University of Toronto.

If food ranks high on the GI scale, it means that the food breaks down quickly. As a result, the body is not satiated and goes looking elsewhere for food. However, food that is low-glucose breaks down less quickly, which means that it makes you feel satiated.

The GI diet, therefore, is made up of food that is low on the GI barometer. If you follow this food plan, you will be eating lean meat and fish, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and fruits and vegetables. In addition, you can partake of dairy, as long as it is low-fat. However, you'll be passing up cake, cookies, bread, and other foods that are comprised of white flour and therefore high on the GI.

Those who support the GI diet maintain that the vast majority of diets are unsuccessful because dieters do not feel satiated. Dieters may also feel fatigued, causing them to binge. In addition, many diets are complex, requiring individuals to do complicated calculations in order to determine how much they should eat.

Following the GI diet is as easy as following a traffic light. Red means stop—in other words, don't eat that particular item. Yellow means proceed to eat with caution—and moderation. Green means go ahead and eat the item—it's good for you. There are numerous advantages to the GI diet. To begin with, it provides proper nutrition, which means that it is heart-healthy. Also, you can eat as much as you want—if the foods have been given the green light. Chances are you won't feel as if you're running on empty with this diet, since it's designed to keep you feeling satiated. It is believed that the diet can reduce the likelihood that you will be afflicted with heart disease, diabetes, stroke, colon cancer and prostate cancer. The GI diet is easy to maintain and equally easy to follow.

You might believe that the GI diet is like Atkins; however, there are notable differences. For example, the Atkins approach stresses high protein and animal fat while curbing carbohydrates. Atkins is based on the philosophy that, if the body does not receive carbs, it will end up breaking down fat instead. Over the long term, Atkins has been linked to kidney damage, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.

But the GI diet is based on carbs such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and encourages dieters to eliminate saturated fat, winning it the endorsement of a number of nutritionists. Still, it should be noted that the GI diet is not perfect. If you have spent a lifetime eating foods in the red category, you might find the diet quite challenging. Also, during the initial stage of the diet, the dieter's weight may rise until the body makes an adjustment.

The GI diet may not be as popular as other diet programs, but it has a number of qualities to recommend it. It is not complicated, so it may not lead to as much frustration as other diets. The traffic light system might appeal to even the most unsophisticated of dieters. It encourages the consumption of good carbohydrates which are nutrient-rich. It is also sure to eliminate an individual's reliance on junk food. While the adjustment to the diet may be difficult at first, a number of dieters maintain that it is well worth the effort. You may actually be surprised to learn exactly how much weight you can lose following the GI system.

Detox Diet

Engaging and following detoxification or detox diet is a great way to cleanse and purify one's body and mine. This has been a common practice in many countries for many years now but the modern life people live now makes detoxifying even more important and essential that it ever was. Overeating, stress, coffee, fast food, alcohol, tobacco and working without enough sleep result to an ongoing need for regular cleasing. However, with the so many detox diets available these days, how are you going to choose the best one? To help you with making a perfect choice, here are some of the reasons, benefits and types of detox diet that you can consider. Read through. Detox Diet Cleansing

Reasons to Detoxify through Detox Diet:

• Get in a good shape

• Eliminate Toxins

• Lose Weight

Benefits of Detoxifying

• Improved digestion and metabolism

• Overall health and well-being

• A stable and healthy level of blood sugar

• Increased mental focus and concentration

• Renewal and rejuvenation

• Fairer and clearer skin

• More energy

Choosing the best detox diet depends mainly on your goals. As yourself if you just want to lose weight, detoxify your body or a combination or losing weight and detoxifying your body. There are many types of detox diets and it is up to you to choose and decide which one suits your preference and lifestyle. To give you the idea, here are some of the different types of detoxification diet.

1. Juice Diet

Only fruit drink juices made from vegetables and fruits such as spinach, carrot, cabbage, celery, apple, cranberry and pineapple. Never consider citrus fruits. This is one of the most effective ways of discharging and eliminating toxins and of losing weight at the same time. You may lose around 10-20 kilograms in 30 days. You may take the juice diet for 1 to 3 days only but remember, careful assessment and medical advice is needed for longer diet and fasting.

2. Only Water Diet

When you are in only water diet, you should not take in anything except water. It lets your organs and digestive tract flush toxins and harmful substances out of the body and rest completely. Medical advice is also needed for longer fasting.

3. Lifetime Diet

Some people may also choose to follow a lifetime diet instead of engaging in fruit juice diet or only water diet. A lifetime diet consists of lentils and beans, whole grains, potatoes, brown rice, fresh fish, honey, fresh fruits, unsalted nuts and vegetables. Avoid eggs, red meat, and foods with refined sugar, saturated fats, ready meals, processed foods, ready-made sauces, alcohol, cigarettes, and coffee. For a maximum effect and for best results, your diet should be combined with exercise. Exercise and body movement stimulates sweating and perspiring, thereby eliminating the toxins through the skin. It also improves metabolism and over detoxification. Yoga exercises, contrast showers and sauna also enhance and improve the natural cleansing process of the body.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Bmi (Body Mass Index) For Different Body Types
Reasonable Predictors

Body Mass Index or BMI is frequently used by healthcare providers as a weight assessment tool and is derived by dividing body weight in kilograms by height in meters squared (BMI=kg/m²). Or, if you prefer, divide weight in pounds by height in inches squared, then multiply the result by 703.

Example: Weight = 150 lbs, Height = 5'5" (65")

Calculation: [150 ÷ (65)²] x 703 = 24.96

While it is a reasonable predictor of individual risk for developing chronic diseases and obesity related health problems, it has limitations. For example, BMI does not take into account the difference between excess fat and muscle. Consequently, fit and healthy people with a high proportion of muscle tissue can be erroneously classified as overweight. BMI measures total body weight, not the actual amount of fat a person is carrying. Some people are naturally stocky and have a body mass index that is in the overweight category, when in fact their weight is due to muscle mass and a heavier bone structure rather than excess fat.

Relying on BMI, scales, or even body fat measurements alone can paint an inaccurate picture of realistic weight goals. It is more important to attain a healthy weight based upon several factors, including: Family history, medical history, body-fat distribution and body composition.

Family history takes into account genetic factors, including physical characteristics that are good predictors when trying to establish weight loss and management goals. Medical history is valuable in assessing health risk factors and establishing weight loss goals that may be appropriate for type II diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc. Body-fat distribution (aka waist-to-hip ratio - WHR) is valuable in determining risk because body fat located in the upper body (especially around the stomach area) is a greater indicator of heart disease, diabetes and prostate cancer than weight around the hips.


NOTE:

BMI is used to classify body weights in 4 general categories, and for different race types of body.

For example: -

Generic European

* under 19 = underweight
* 19-24.9 = normal
* 25-29.9= overweight
* 30 or above - obese

Generic Asian (because excessive weight gain is a greater health risk for those of us of Asian descent

* under 19 = underweight
* 19-22.9 = normal
* 23-24.9 = overweight
* 25 or above = obese

BMI is a somewhat simplistic formula, but it is a guide.

Obesity and overweight is a sever health risk. The illness called ' early death' being a normal result.

Another factor is where on your body the weight is, as fat is different depending on where the fat cells are (more on another post)

Check also with your doctor or a reputable gym on your body fat (depends on your body type).

But here are some general guides

Body fat Men

* 12%-20% - ideal
* 20.1-25.00% - overweight
* over 25% - obese

Body Fat Women

* 15%- 22% - ideal
* 22.1-30% - overweight
* over 30% - obese

Coconut Bliss Vegan Ice Cream Giveaway

'Tis time to celebrate, folks!  This is my 401st post!  I cannot believe that I have been blogging this long, but... I have. 

To commemorate such a monumental occasion I decided to host a giveaway.  One that is SOOO sweet even I have a hard time to let go of the prize.  

I am naturally not a sweets person, but when I stumbled upon Coconut Bliss Dark Chocolate ice cream by mistake a couple of years ago I got HOOKED!  To this day, now matter what other ice creams I have tried, this one is still by far my favorite ice cream.  My hubby, who was previously hooked on a different brand of ice cream, had also found a favorite flavor in Coconut Bliss offerings--the Cappuccino flavor. 

We both have done pretty crazy things in the past for CB ice cream.  We had our ice cream war between evil and good ice creams :)

and

I had gone so far as to rock a CB t-shirt that happened to be a size too small for me :( :

And I even scored a Coconut Bliss tote... that traveled all the way to AZ with us on our vacation this year... 

OK, go ahead and say it--I am nuts for this ice cream!

Recently Luna and Larry's brand came out with yet a different way to make this ice cream enticing--they now shape the same wonderful ice cream into bars!  They were kind enough to send us a couple of coupons--one we redeemed for a box of dark chocolate flavored ice cream and shared it with our Biggest Winner Challenge participants, who loved it also, and one I am going to GIVE AWAY [just hear my heart crying now...]. 

TO ENTER:

Mandatory entries:

1. Subscribe to the Newsletter and then leave a comment telling me you did it;
2. Leave a comment telling me what your favorite vegan ice cream is and why you would like to win this giveaway;

BONUS ENTRIES:

To increase your chances of winning--since I am thinking about using mr. random.org to help me pick a winner, you can do as many of the following as you would like: 

1. Blog about this giveaway [if you have a blog], linking to this post, then come back and leave a link to your post;
2. Twit about this giveaway, linking to this post; then come back, leave a comment with a link to your post;
3. Post about this giveaway on your Facebook status, linking to this post, then come back, leave a comment with a link to your post.

You can twitter or facebook about this giveaway once a day each day until the day of the drawing and get additional entries for that.  You just have to remember to come back and link to your post every time you do it.

The drawing is open to US residents only [sorry, I don't want to pay for out of the country mailing].  The winner will receive a coupon by mail from me, and will be able to redeem it at any store that carries Coconut Bliss bars. 

The drawing will be open until November 10th, 12 pm EST.

Winner will be notified through a post and e-mail [so make sure to enter your e-mail when you are leaving a comment] and will have 48 hrs to respond. 

Best of luck!