Ways Digestive Enzyme Supplements Can Relieve Digestive Problems
March 30, 2010 by Tommie Howard
Filed under Diet
There are millions of people who suffer from digestive distress on a regular basis and are forced to take antacids and other medications in an attempt to soothe their symptoms. However, there may be another option available that could prevent the problems from returning and is natural as well: digestive enzymes.
Enzymes taken as a supplement to your diet can help to soothe many different problems and make a sluggish digestive system function more effectively. There are some foods that contain these enzymes such as papaya and pineapple, but by taking it as a supplement you can monitor more effectively the amount that you are receiving every day.
While medications such as antacids can help to relieve symptoms, they cannot help to fix the problem that is actually causing the digestion problems. If you take digestive enzymes, they are often able to get rid of the problem and prevent them from coming back.
People are able to make 22 different enzymes in their bodies, but as we get older the body is less able to make them the way it did when it was younger. This can lead to problems in the digestion system that will not be fully relieved until the enzymes are replaced. You do get some enzymes from foods in the diet, but these may be diminished through the cooking process as well as the fact that due to over farming of soils has led our foods to be less nutrient rich than they were previously.
Some of the digestion problems that the enzymes can help with include: bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, gas, heartburn, constipation, indigestion and acid reflux. Supplements generally are available as a tablet that is taken with water, but there are also some powders that are available on the market.
Having a lack of enzymes in your body and a lagging digestive system can also lead to other problems such as acne and skin problems and aging. Some of the health conditions that can be associated with a lack of digestive enzymes are: low absorption and sluggish digestion, reduced energy and fatigue, indigestion, headaches, belching and an over growth of candida in the body.
In addition, when the digestive system is not working efficiently it places pressure on the pancreas and the liver as well as the circulatory system. Over time this can really affect your health and prevent your body from absorbing nutrients effectively as well as preventing your body from eliminating toxins and wastes effectively.
By replenishing the amount of digestive enzymes that you are getting, then it will allow your digestion to work more effectively as well as helping your body to absorb nutrients. You will also notice a reduction or elimination of the health symptoms that you have been experiencing and better overall health and well being. If you feel like your batteries are running low and you are experiencing digestive distress, then you should consider taking a supplement to reinvigorate your body systems.
Digestive enzymes can help with things like irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn, gas, acid reflux, constipation and bloating. If you have any of these symptoms, then the enzymes are recommended.http://tommiehoward.offershop.us/health/health-and-herbs
Chocolate Is Incredibly Healthy, If You Eat It Raw
March 11, 2010 by Melissa Stevens
Filed under Diet
Almost daily in the news we see reports of chocolate’s health benefits. It’s a potent antioxidant, and is chock-full of chemicals and nutrients that have been attributed to making us happy. Yet many of us remain skeptical; eating lots of chocolate doesn’t seem to make us feel better, and in fact can lower energy levels for awhile. So what gives? If chocolate is such a miracle food, shouldn’t we be able to eat it all the time, without guilt and feel great? Well, yes, we can, but the way chocolate is prepared is crucial to unlocking its true potential as a health food. If you’d like to learn how to have a healthy dose of chocolate daily, read on…
Like so many things in our modern world, its the processing of chocolate that makes all the difference. This isn’t just the New Age Hippy types saying this either (as one, the author feels comfortable making this statement). The scientists measuring all the chemicals in our food, telling us which bits are good and which are bad are saying it to. It’s RAW, minimally-processed chocolate that’s the miracle food. Un-roasted, un-cooked plain old powdered chocolate, better known as ‘Cacao’, is far superior in every way for your health. It’s called a ’superfood’ by many, as it’s list of super-good for you super-nutrients is extensive. Note that ‘organic’ does not mean ‘raw’. Even the premium organic hot-chocolate powders found in the high-end health food stores is still roasted and usually processed with alkali (called ‘Dutch Processing’, making it easier to dissolve in water, and destroying most of the antioxidants at the same time). This means that 99% of the chocolate products on the shelves are NOT the superfood you wished they were, but it also points the direction to how to include chocolate in your life on an exceptionally health daily basis. We’ll get to some recipes in a moment, but first a few points to help you remember why raw chocolate is where it’s at.
Energy and stimulation is at the heart of the chocolate experience, but many people are sensitive to chocolate’s effects. There are however, significant differences in the alkaloid structures of raw and roasted chocolate. Raw chocolate’s stimulation comes primarily from theobromine, which has little anxiety producing effects. Studies by natural wellness professionals and user reports both note that while commercially prepared dark chocolate has a very stimulating action that caffeine sensitive individuals may find too strong, an equivalent amount of raw cacao does not. The stimulating effects are reported mild, gentle, and without a ‘crash’ that is often associated with caffeine. A reason for mothers to think about creating their own raw chocolate treats for their children, too. The jury is still out on the actual amount if caffeine in raw chocolate; some investigators have found none, some have found small amounts in the ’skin’ of the cacao beans, and others of found only small amounts in beans that have fermented somewhat (an indication of a lower-quality cacao). Either way, if you’ve refrained from chocolate because of it’s caffeine content, raw cacao may just be your answer to enjoying this treat again.
The really big news about chocolate has been it’s antioxidant profile. Chocolate contains significant amounts of polyphenols — the same important antioxidants found in green tea, red wine and green apples — but in greater amounts. Dark chocolate contains an impressive 5% of these compounds, yet raw chocolate is made up of an incredible 10% concentration of these possibly life-extending molecules. Both roasting and processing with alkali (to make Dutch cocoa) reduce antioxidant concentration. Further, the increased absorbability of powdered raw cacao (perhaps the most versatile form of raw chocolate) over cacao nibs give them an edge in ORAC value, a measure of Oxidative Radical Absorbance Capacity.
Maybe the most intriguing constituents of chocolate are it’s mood-altering chemicals besides its stimulation. Many users of raw chocolate find and even greater boost than from commercial chocolates. Like caffeine, some of the molecules attributed to mood-enhancement are also heat sensitive. Tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, is present in significant amounts and is known to be broken down by heat (and apparently it’s not the Tryptophan in the turkey dinners that makes one tired, it’s the three servings followed by pie and ice cream!). Other natural constituents are dopamine and precursors to dopamine, one molecule called the ‘love chemical’ and another called the ‘bliss chemical’. Add to these monoamine oxidase inhibitors which actually enhance the activity of all of the above mood brighteners. Finally, there’s lots of easily absorbed magnesium in raw chocolate, a mineral associated with serotonin production (many pharmaceutical antidepressants increase serotonin activity), and the ability to relax. Raw chocolate offers the healthiest and most effective means of adding these happy-making nutrients to your daily diet.
Convinced? Ready for a little raw chocolate power? First its critical to find a good source; make sure the chocolate you’re buying is raw - it’s most often labeled as ‘Cacao’, the name for the raw chocolate beans and the tree on which they grow. Cacao nibs are small pieces of pure raw chocolate that can be eaten straight, or mixed with other healthy snacks like dried fruits. But the best-loved raw chocolate preparation is the original chocolate drink: hot chocolate. Now it won’t be hot enough for long enough to convert any chemicals or to cook the chocolate, just to make it a warm comforting drink - and of course, heating the water isn’t necessary at all (though in recipes calling for Coconut oil, it helps to blend the oil into the drink). So to make a cup, use powdered raw chocolate (grinding the nibs or beans in a coffee grinder can work, though you’ll find this challenging as the natural oils in the chocolate will heat up and liquefy before the grinding is complete, leaving little crunchy bits). Put one or two tablespoons powdered chocolate, one to two teaspoons raw dark agave nectar (a low-glycemic index natural sweetner) and one to two teaspoons of Coconut oil in a blender. Add eight to twelve ounces almost-boiling water and blend for ten seconds. That’s it! You’ll find your personal favorite formula after a few preparations - more or less chocolate, oil, sweetener or water.
There are many, many recipes available online and in books about raw chocolate. Some favorite additions to the drink are Maca, cinnamon, tocopherols (a form of Vitamin E), and for the truly hard core, blue green algae and spirulina. Your own raw chocolate bars are very easy to make, really just by omitting the water and adjusting the oil and sweetener ratios to make a thick chocolate paste. Add some chopped nuts if you like, press into a casserole dish and put it in the refrigerator long enough to make it firm. Experiment; it’s chocolate! You’re supposed to have fun. And with raw chocolate, it might be the most fun you can have eating while positively benefiting your health.
Are you what you eat?
February 27, 2009 by Bryan Bowen
Filed under Diet
We all want to look and feel younger these days. Look at any drug store vitamin shelf, any you will see row upon row of products that promise to make you look and feel younger than your years. But really, you will probably get a lot more value and a lot better results by adopting an anti aging diet. If you just eat right, you can take years off your appearance and feel younger too without ever touching an anti aging cream, lotion or elixir.
An anti aging diet consists of fresh, pure, natural food and fresh, pure, natural water. To construct a successful anti aging diet, you will want to drink lots of fresh pure water, and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetable, whole grains, and lean proteins. You will want to add antioxidants to your diet to help undo the ravages of aging. You will want to add fiber to help cleanse your system of toxins. If you can commit and follow through with a healthy anti aging diet, it will do far more for you than anything you can buy in a drug store.
Take good care of your skin by using a good quality moisturizer and drinking at least eight large glasses of pure water every day. As we grow older, our skin tends to lose moisture, and we tend to forget to replenish it by keeping ourselves hydrated with water. Promise yourself to remember to drink your water every day. Then keep that promise. You will soon see a difference in the way you look and feel when you remember to add lots of fresh water to your anti aging diet.
A very important component of a good anti aging diet is antioxidants. These are the miracles workers in helping to reverse the effects of aging. They can help undo damage that is done to your body through the wear and tear of every day existence. Be sure to consume foods and beverages that are high in antioxidants. Some to get you started are, whole grains and fish, yogurt, green tea, fruits that are vibrant in color, and green leafy vegetables. By making these foods a big part of your diet, you will soon see positive changes in how you feel and look.
Dont get the idea that these healthy foods are not also delicious. They certainly can be and are. Remember that aging affects your bodys ability to fight off the negative effects of junk food that adds nothing but empty calories to your diet. Take care of yourself and keep your vital organs functioning properly by enjoying delicious, healthy, natural foods.
Go online or take a trip to your local book store to find interesting recipes and cookbooks that will help you make the most of your new anti aging diet. When you have tried a few of the delicious recipes available to make the most of your new, healthy food choices, you will be amazed at how easy it is to kick the junk food habit. You can throw empty calories out the window, and give yourself the gift of youth and health.
Dont take aging lying down. Change your lifestyle. Be proactive. Give yourself a healthy, natural diet that will promote and support good health and a glowing vibrant appearance. A good anti aging diet is created from a hard, honest look at your existing diet and then the commitment and determination necessary to make healthy changes for the good. With the right nutrition, you can stay young and healthy for a very long time.
The Ultimate Anti Aging Formula: Stay Fit and Healthy
February 19, 2009 by Sam G. Smith
Filed under Diet
Aging is a stage every human body goes through in life. You can not prevent the aging process but certainly can dely it by adapting healthy life style.
Nutritions and scientists have found a way to slow down the body’s aging process by mixing some of the Eastern medicine and supplements with those of the Westerns. As a result there are Natural human growth hormone (HGH) products available on the market today. These HGH products help with repairing damaged tissues, generating cell in the bones, support for muscles and vital organs and supporting the body in combating infection and diseases.
However, there are many steps and strategies available to delay the aging process.
Engaging in regular exercise and eating a healthy diet everyday will help you in achieving long and healthy life. Healthy diet and exercise will help you control your cravings for unhealthy food. Cravings are one of the main causes for obesity. If left uncontrolled obesity can lead to diabetes and heart problems.
Saturated fats will increase the chances of heart disease. To avoid heart disease, cut down on foods, such as meats, butter, cheese and milk products, that contain saturated fats.
Fired foods served from the fast food restaurant are one of the major causes of heart disease and digestive system problems. Fried foods are rich in saturated fats. It is best to bake your foods than frying. Baked foods have less grease contents.
Once you have your diet all worked out, another thing you should work on is, your exercise program. You do not have to do anything strenuous to see the effect of exercise on your general health. In fact, it is highly recommended that you do things gradually. Start by walking small distances a day, and then increase the distance when you are already adjusted to the situation. You will be amazed at how something as simple as walking can make you feel a lot better, and when you feel better, you feel happy and young.
So, if you do not want to get old all of a sudden, just have healthy eating habits, and exercise regularly — these will delay the formation of age-related wrinkles!
A Clean Colon is a Healthier You
February 12, 2009 by Pat Johnson
Filed under Diet
The colon is a very important organ in your body. It is responsible for rounding up and eliminating solid waste from the body. You will be significantly healthier with a clean colon and its experience an increased sense of well being.
When you decide to get rid of the toxins that have built up in your colon you need to be selective which method you choose to go about achieving that. It is recommended to carefully study up on the subject before you take and drastic action. I hope to provide you with some good tips here.
It is critical that how ever you decide to go about achieving a clean colon that your result is thorough. You want to be assured that when you are done there will be none of the toxins left still blocking things. A poorly functioning colon can cause you all sorts of health problem.
Before making a purchase make sure that the colon cleanse you choose will give you your money back if you are not satisfied. This shouldn’t be a problem with any reputable company. You can not now for certain you will respond to the product so it is reasonable for you to have a chance to try it out and measure the results.
If you give your colon a good cleaning your body can absorb vitamins will less difficulty.
With so many choices, which one should you go for? There are home made solutions as well as ones you can buy at a store, like Evercleanse. Take your time to read reviews and opinions
Your colon is a very important part of your body and you want to do your best to look after it. Keeping it clean will allow it to function at its best. There are many benefits to doing so and it really isn’t that difficult. You will have more energy, lose weight and all round feel better. Take your first step towards colon cleansing today.
Millions of people have been using Qigong for weight loss
January 18, 2009 by Wu Chan
Filed under Weight Loss
I am sure you are the same as me, the pounds just seem to have gone on bit by bit. Now it is getting to a point where enough is enough and the weight needs to come off before it really starts affecting your health.
Dieting for a month or even two just doesn’t work, the only way to lose weight with qigong (or anything else) is to embrace it and make it part of your daily life.
For over a thousand years, millions of people have been losing weight naturally with Qigong and there is no reason why you can’t make qigong part of your life and use it to become a fitter healthier person. No one likes to think about the damage that is being done by all the extra pounds we are carrying around, but once you lose them you will feel so much better that you will wonder what the heck took you so long.
Morbid obesity used to be a real rarity, over the last couple of years it seems to have become the norm, and it will only get worse unless we all take control of our lives. Qigong is a natural path to both bodily health and mental equilibrium, making qigong part of your daily rituals will not only help you lose weight naturally it will also help your mind stay calm and centred.
Natural weight lose with qigong is a healthy way to achieve your goals. Making qigong part of your life will help you change your mindset from one of “I need to lose weight” to “I am living a more healthy life” and that will help the weight come off, maybe not as quick as it went on but if you stay the course then you will achieve your goals.
Consistency is something that helps you in many parts of your life, losing weight with qigong is one of them. Once you decide to block some time aside every day and use that time for your qigong studies or to practice what you have learnt then you will find that not only do you start to look forward to that time but you will feel more healthy. Losing weight with qigong is as much about your health as a person as it is about losing the extra pounds.
Qigong is a natural and healthy way to lose weight and live your life, it isn’t some fad that Dr’s will find is actually doing as much harm as good at some time in the future. Taking part in one diet and then doing a different one a month later is not good for your body. Your body and your mind need consistency and a permanently healthy lifestyle will help them in that aspect.
Only you can decide how you want to lose weight, we all wish we could lose weight as quickly as we put it on but that just isn’t the way it works. You need to make a commitment to yourself that you are going to live a more healthy life and making qigong part of that healthy lifestyle really does make sense.



