Thursday, February 28, 2013

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF GREEN TEA !!!


Green tea is produced from the dried and steamed leaves of Camellia sinensis, and medicinal use of the tea dates back about 5,000 years to China. Green tea is a natural remedy and it is beneficial for medical problems. The health benefits of green tea are likely due to a substance called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). This substance accounts for about 40 percent of total polyphenol content of green tea.

The health benefits from Green Tea are primarily due to its anti oxidizing properties. These health benefits include:

Anti Aging: Regular consumption of green tea can effectively the signs of aging. Free radicals created in body are responsible for corroding and aging it. The main job of anti-oxidants in green tea are to neutralize and rid the body of free radicals.

Astringency: Green tea tones up muscles and skin. Even if you do not wish to drink green tea, a mere mouthwash with this daily will cause sufficient contraction in gums to keep them firm and tight on teeth and thus prevent loosening and falling of teeth for long. Wash your hair with it and see them grow stronger each day.

Stimulating: Caffeine and Tannins, despite their adverse effects on health in the long run, are very good as stimulants. That is why a cup of tea makes you feel fresh and highly energized. Tea is ideal to counter fatigue, laziness, sleepiness and lack of energy and to improve blood circulation.

Immunity Boosting:The message is clear. Green Tea boosts immunity. Research shows that people who regularly drink green tea do not fall prey to common bacterial and viral infections. Green tea prevents bacteria from attaching themselves to cell walls and thus infecting them. They also destroy the toxins released by microbes which prevents bad breathe, dysentery, diarrhea, tooth decay, indigestion, flu, cough & cold, colitis etc.

Anti Carcinogenic: Apart from aging, free radicals are also responsible for causing certain types of cancer. Green tea has the power neutralize free radicals, prevent formation of carcinogens and reduce the chances of cancer. Green tea is now being clinically used in prevention of cancer, particularly those pertaining to colon, rectum, pancreas and intestines.

Reducing Cholesterol: Green tea has been seen effective in reducing cholesterol level to some extent, due to its alkaline nature.

Cardiac & Arterial Health: Certain components in green tea prevents thickening or clotting of blood which reduces chances of Arterial Sclerosis, Thrombosis, Cardiac and Cerebral Strokes etc.

Anti Diabetic: The alkaline nature of green tea helps reduce the blood glucose level. Moreover, the anti oxidizing and astringent nature of its constituents ensure good health; improving the function of pancreas, increased secretion of insulin, and improving the decomposition and absorption of sugar.
*instead of using sugar, use organic honey.

Weight Loss: You believe it or not, but green tea also helps lose weight by enhancing rate of metabolism. Green tea has replaced many beverages in Western culture as its helps in weight loss. Drink a cup full of green tea in the morning and you are sure to become nice and lean.

Stamina & Endurance Booster: You can prove this yourself. Just have a cup of hot green tea after rigorous exercise and you will be rejuvenated in minutes. Further, it effectively counters muscular pain and soreness because it will rehydrate the body.

De-intoxicating: Green tea is the best cure to get rid of hangovers and fatigue caused by consumption of alcoholic beverages and lack of sleep due to late night parties. A big glass of green tea with lemon, and lo, feels as if there was no hangover at all. Green tea with Lemon juice is a very good and popular remedy to cut effect of alcohols effect instantly.

On a more personal note, I love green tea. My brand of choice is Yogi. They have many types of different types of green tea for whatsoever you may need it for. I usually start every morning with a cup of organic green tea, honey, and a bit of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Throughout the day I may have another glass or two. It helps me feel refreshed in the morning, or helps me relax after a long day. You can purchase green tea from almost any grocery store but I would go to a Trader Joe's, Wholefoods, or organic food store.

"The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

Monday, February 25, 2013

USE YOUR HANDS:: Portion Size Chart

 
We often have trouble figuring out the portions for eating. Instead of frantically 
scrambling aroundfor measure cups and other utensils here are some simple ways
you can measure with one of the greatest tools of all time...
your HANDS!!!

"The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

Friday, February 15, 2013

I AM, I CAN, I WILL..

We are powerful, creative creatures that can do anything we want, if we put our minds to it. Believe, speak it, and take action.



 "The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

THE POWER OF THE GOGI

The goji berry, also known as the "wolfberry", is often classified as a "super-food" because of its dense nutrient content. In addition to its high nutritional value, the goji berry has also been studied for its potential medicinal properties.All the berries like acai berries, cranberries, blue berries, strawberries, etc., are proven anti-oxidants and are consumed regularly by many for their healing properties. 

Goji Berries also have the highest concentration of protein of any fruit. They are also loaded with vitamin C, contain more carotenoids than any other food, have twenty-one trace minerals, and are high in fiber. Boasting 15 times the amount of iron found in spinach, as well as calcium, zinc, selenium and many other important trace minerals, there is no doubt that the humble goji berry is a nutritional powerhouse.This amazing little super-fruit also contains natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal compounds. Their powerful antioxidant properties and polysaccharides help to boost the immune system. It’s no wonder then, that in traditional Chinese medicine they are renowned for increasing strength and longevity.

Although they have only been introduced in Western countries in recent years, gojis have been used for thousands of years in Tibet and China, both as a culinary ingredient and medicinally. It is consumed as health beverage in many western countries and its popularity is increasing constantly. They are commonly sold in health food stores  in the form of dried whole berries, but other available forms include juice and herbal teas. You can also use it as an ingredient in soups.

Health Benefits:
- Prevent chronic disorders like diabetes, high blood pressure, fever etc.
- Lower cholesterol.
- Prevent heart disease.
- Boost the immune system.
- Slow the aging process.
- Rids the body from free radicals.
- Protect vision  and absorbs blue light and protects our retina of our eyes and improves our vision. It also reduces the risk of age related macular degeneration.
- Boost brain health and may protect against age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's.
- Better mental well-being.
- Calming.
- Boost athletic performance.
- Better sense of happiness.
- Improves the quality of sleep.
- Boost your sense of good health.



Gojis can often be found in health food stores, Asian food stores, but most of these come from the commercial growing regions of China and Tibet. Some can contain contain high levels of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. Even some brands which claim to be organic may not be, so be sure to source your goji berries from a reputable source.

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!!!!



 "The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

Monday, February 11, 2013

GETTING READY FOR THE SPARTAN RACE IN JUNE!!!





Getting ready for the Spartan Race this Summer. They come to the New York Area June 1st and the 2nd, and later in September, the 8th and 9th. Some friends asked me to join but this video really inspired me to join. So when you get the opportunity, watch this video!!!

If you'd like to sign up, go to http://www.spartanrace.com .


 "The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

They say your gratitude determines your latitude...



 "The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

The Health Benefits of Coconut Oil !!!


The health benefits of totally UNREFINED or ORGANIC, VIRGIN COCONUT OIL include hair care, skin care, stress relief, maintaining cholesterol levels, weight loss, increased immunity, proper digestion and metabolism, relief from kidney problems, heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, dental care, bone strength, and prevention of cancer.

1. Hair Care: Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair. It helps in healthy growth, provides a shiny complexion, and reduces the protein loss. Regular head massage with coconut oil ensures that your scalp is free of dandruff, even if your scalp is dry. It also helps in keeping hair and scalp free from lice and lice eggs.

2. Skin Care: Coconut oil is excellent massage oil for the skin as well. It acts as an effective moisturizer on all types of skin. It is a safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking of skin. It also delays wrinkles, and sagging of skin, premature aging and degenerative diseases due to its antioxidant properties.

3. Heart Diseases: Coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It helps in preventing various
heart problems including high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and atherosclerosis.

4. Weight Loss: Coconut oil is very useful in reducing weight. It easy to digest, helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems, increases the body metabolism
burning out more energy and helping reduce their weight.

5. Digestion: Internal use of coconut oil occurs primarily as cooking oil. Coconut
oil helps in improving the digestive system. It also helps in absorption of other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

6. Immunity: Coconut oil is very useful in strenghtening the immune system.

7. Healing and Infections: When applied on infections, it forms a chemical layer which protects the infected body part from external dust, air, fungi, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil is most effective on bruises as it speeds up the healing process by repairing damaged tissues. It is very effective against a variety of infections due to its antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. --- According to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil kills viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis, herpes, and SARS. Bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhea. Coconut oil is also effective on fungi and yeast that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete's foot, thrush, and diaper rash.---

8. Liver: Coconut oil helps prevent liver diseases as they substances are easily
converted into energy when they reach the liver.

9. Kidney:
Coconut oil helps in preventing kidney, gall bladder
diseases, and kidney stones.

10. Stress Relief: Coconut oil is very soothing and hence it helps in removing stress. Applying coconut oil to the head followed with a gentle massage helps in removing mental fatigue.

11. Diabetes: Coconut oil helps in controlling blood sugar, improves the secretion of insulin, and helps in effective utilization of blood glucose.

12. Bones: As mentioned earlier, coconut oil improves the ability of our body to absorb important minerals. These include calcium and magnesium which are necessary for development of bones.

13. Dental Care: Calcium is an important element present in teeth. Since coconut oil facilitates absorption of calcium by the body, it helps in getting strong teeth. Coconut oil also stops tooth decay.

14. Athletes: Finally, Coconut oil is often preferred by athletes and body builders
and by those who are dieting. It contains lesser calories than other oils, its fat content
is easily converted into energy and it does not lead to accumulation of fat in the heart and arteries. Coconut oil helps in boosting energy and endurance, and enhances the performance of athletes.

How to Use Coconut Oil?: If you are using coconut oil for topical purposes, especially hair care, just melt the oil (if it is solid) by keeping the bottle in the sun or warm water, ,or in a bowl over a flame (do not use microwave!). Then take the oil on your palm and apply. If you want to use it for internal consumption, simply replace butter or vegetable oils with coconut oil in your recipes.

Can I Use Coconut Oil for Cooking?: Yes, in most of the tropical coastal regions, people use coconut oil for cooking.

"On a more personal note. I was introduced to coconut oil this summer by a good of mine, a professional basketball player I was training while in Houston. Once I started using coconut oil on a regular basis I experienced great results. I believe coconut oil is one of the best natural resources that we can use for the body. It has helped me get that extra boost while working out and even going through my day. Coconut oil has help tremendously with my skin tone, keeping it moisturized, and very effective when conditioning my hair. So give it a try."


 "The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

Monday, February 4, 2013

TAKE A SHOT FOR ME....

What is wheatgrass? Why is it called the perfect food? Many have stated, "It is the freshly squeezed juice from the young wheat which provides the sane benefits as eating a two pound green salad." It helps to increase the body's stamina, aids digestion, reduces cravings for addictive substances, improves fertility, makes bowel movements regular, and eases practically every physical and mental ailment you would expect to encounter among people who are not properly nourished. 

Wheatgrass is known to have all the nutrients necessary to sustain life. It's vitamins, minerals, and proteins all occur in their simplist forms, thus requiring the minimum digestive activity, and they are harmoniously balanced by nature in exactly the right proportion along with enzymes for maximum assimilation. Wheatgrass juice has as much vitamin C as citrus fruits and is as high in vitamin A as dark green lettuce or carrots. It's an excellent source of B-vitamins, including laetrile, and contains vitamin E and K as well. Wheatgrass contains all the minerals in healthy soil -- over a hundred, including calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and a variety of trace minerals such as selenium and zinc. It also contains all eight essential amino acids, which are said to be the 'building blocks' of protein.

The simple sugars in wheatgrass makes up for the sweet taste, and contains 70% chlorophyll. Extensive medical studies showed that chlorophyll did help to build healthy blood, improve circulation, cleanse the organs and gastrointestinal tract, heal
gum disease and ulcers, create an unfavorable environment for harmful bacteria, neutralize the polluting elements in food, air, water, and low-level radiation, freshen the breath, and neutralize body odors.

Recent studies have been focusing more on chlorophyll's cancer-defending abilities. In biologist Chiu-Nan Lai of the University of Texas Cancer Center in vitro. New animal studies in chlorophyll shield the body against the effects of carcinogens found in smoked or barbecued meats and protect you from aflatoxins, dangerous mold that can develop in peanuts, oils, and other foods. What makes chlorophyll prevent cancer? According to The Journal of the National Cancer Institute, the secret behind chlorophyll's ability to prevent cancer is its action of binding with cancer-causing chemicals while they are still in the digestive tract, thus blocking their absorption into the body.

So if you're wondering who started the idea of consuming wheatgrass.... You can blame Dr. Ann Wigmore who popularized the use of fresh wheatgrass juice for human consumption back in the early 1970s. She began to experiment on herself and found that by eating grasses she was able to cure gangrene in her leg. Then at Hippocrates Health Institute, she grew her own wheatgrass indoors under sun simulating lights and served the juice to her many guests who turned to her for help after exhausting conventional medical treatments. Wheatgrass juice has since helped thousands to recover from serious illnesses as documented at Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida, the Optimum Health Institute in San Diego, and the Ann Wigmore Foundation in Puerto Rico.

On a more personal note I think wheatgrass in amazing.  I've found increases in my energy levels, its gave that extra boost when I'm working out, and has provideda better sense of well being. They come in a one ounce shot cup or two. I try to drink a shot a day. They usually range from $2.00 -$5.00, depending on the store and how many ounces you want. So go to your local juicers and enjoy a powerful shot of wheat grass!
 "The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love

LAUGH OFTEN !!!

A dose of daily laughter is the one of the keys to manifesting an amazing life that you love.  Laughing is a great ingredient in learning how to let go.  It creates one of the most positive releases one can experience without having an actual orgasm!  Laughter frees you up in such a unique way that there is no “mind” there constantly analyzing, criticizing, and trying to remain in control.  A good, long, authentic, laugh is one of the best medicines you could ever take on a daily basis.  If you can truly do this everyday, it’s a good chance that you'll enjoy life and a highly liberated human being. So make sure you're really "laughing out loud," not just texting it.

"The greatest wealth is health."
Peace & Love
@MrShawnCruz