Posts Tagged ‘skin’
Foods high in fiber
photo by: www.flickr.com/photos/a-culinary-photo-journal/3133739205/
Digestive Health – The facts on fiber and why it’s important
by Ann Blanton
If you want to reap the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, the key component is to eat a high fiber diet. Most people don’t even come close to consuming the amounts that are required on a daily basis. On average, most adults obtain as little as ten to fifteen grams of fiber a day.
What is it?
Fiber is a main factor for a healthy well-balanced diet. It’s a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest and comes from plant based foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and legumes. Without being broken down into nutrients, fiber passes completely through the digestive tract rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Why it’s important
Fiber offers cancer fighting properties and prevent certain types of cancer. The edible section of plants are opposed to absorption and have maximum helpful elements to fight against disease..
Other health factors for a high fiber diet include: a reduction in blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, glucose levels and inflammation. It also promotes weight loss because it produces fullness in the intestines by decreasing food intake.
How much is enough
The recommended intake should consist of 14 grams for every one thousand calories you take in on a daily basis. So if you’re consumption is two thousand calories, you should be eating at least 28 grams of fiber.
To determine how much fiber is enough, depends on your age and gender. Women 50 and younger, should aim for 25 grams a day. Those 51 and over, should be getting 21 grams each day. Men 50 and younger, should include a maximum intake of 38 grams, and men 51 and over should try to get 30 grams on a daily basis.
Types of fiber
There are two types of fiber, soluble and insoluble. Soluble dissolves in water and is found in most fruits It forms into a gel in the digestive tract and allows food to move quickly through the system. Soluble fiber also maintains healthy cholesterol levels and promotes a much healthier cardiovascular system. Insoluble fiber is quite the reverse and does not evaporate in liquid. Instead, it adds bulk to the stool and passes quickly through the stomach and intestines unless there is fat, protein or soluble fiber to slow down the process. Both types are recommended daily for a well-balanced diet.
Soluble fiber foods
The foods listed below foods are high in soluble fiber and are loaded with vitamins, minerals and nutrients and can also help reduce cholesterol levels.
Plums, pears, prunes
Grapefruits, oranges, lemons and limes
oatmeal
Brussel sprouts, broccoli
lentils
carrots
chick peas
kidney pinto and lima beans
Insoluble fiber foods
Foods that are high in insoluble fiber incorporate the kernel and the bran. The bran is the outer portion that covers the kernel. Here is a list of the following foods.
Whole grain breads and cereals
Wheat bran
Whole wheat flour, bread and cereal
Granola
Seeds and nuts
Popcorn
Beans, lentils and brown rice
Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and cranberries
Grapes and raisins
Cherries
Pineapple
Peaches, pears, nectarines and apricots
Apples, oranges and melons
Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, lettuce and collards
Corn and peas such as snow, snap and pea pods
Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussel sprouts
Onions, shallots, leeks, scallions, green peppers, celery and garlic
Eggplant
Cucumbers and tomatoes
Tip:
You should never eat these foods alone or on an empty stomach. Insoluble fiber foods should always be eaten with large quantities of soluble fiber to keep the gastro colic reflex steady This stimulates the movement into the gastrointestinal tract.
Benefits
There are many health benefits from eating a high fiber diet. Some of them are listed below:
Lowers bad cholesterol levels, LDL
Reduces the risk of certain types of cancer such as prostrate, breast, ovarian and uterine. According to clinical studies, there are conflicting results whether a high fiber diet can prevent colon cancer.
Lowers the risk of developing hemorrhoids and diverticular disease, which are small pouches in the colon
Improves blood sugar levels and Diabetes
Helps prevent heart disease
Relieves irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Reduces the formation of gallstones and kidney stones because it regulates blood sugar
Skin breakouts and rashes
Inhibits the severity of a stroke and the chances of recovery
Assists healthy weight management
So, get in your daily dose of fiber and greatly improve your health.
Always, I appreciate your feedback, so leave all your comments.
I’ve had many articles published at Fitness Plus Magazine. Here’s the link to view them if you want to check them out. http://fitplusmag.com/magazine/author/annblanton/ I also had a story story published as an anthology in a book titled, “Heartscapes”.
John 6:35: And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life. He that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
To barf or not to barf
Posted on: January 23, 2013
- In: Nutrition
- 48 Comments
This is my dog, Peaches. Isn’t she adorable?
Proper nutrition is just as important for our four-legged friends as it is for humans.
To barf or not to barf
by Ann Blanton
Do you and Fido spend hours at the vet for allergies, dry itchy skin, hot spots, dental problems and a host of other diseases? If so, have you considered switching your cherished companion to an all-natural food plan? It may sound difficult, but after you read this blog post, you’ll have all the information you need to put your pet on the road to good health and nutrition.
Maybe you’re one of the millions of people who currently practice good nutrition. If so, has it improved your health; maybe even extended your life? Good nutrition is just as important for your pets’ health as it for humans, so why not do the same thing for your loyal companion? With proper nutrition, your four-legged friends can be just as healthy, happy and free from disease as their owners.
What is it?
Barf, which means, bone and raw food, consists of fresh meat, including bones and vegetables that are uncooked unlike commercial dog foods. What’s more, the barf diet is organic, not processed, has no preservatives, grains additives; fillers or byproducts; and contain only the highest quality of fresh ingredients.
The fresh food plan was designed to improve the health of your pet with evolutionary nutrition. Holistic veterinarians have been prescribing the barf diet to their patients for many years with beneficial results. “I agree with the barf diet, because it is based on what dog’s ancestors and current wild canids eat,” says homeopathic veterinarian, Dr Susan Maier. “It contains what their bodies naturally need to provide optimum health.”
Raw or ground?
That’s up to you. But, if you’re like most people, with little or no free time, preparation can be very time consuming. A number of web sites offer fresh quality ground meat, (bones included) and vegetables that are properly prepared, prepackaged and ready to be delivered frozen right to your door. All you need to do is thaw out the package in the refrigerator and serve your dog his favorite meal.
By now, if you’re thinking how disgusting this sounds, consider this. Although, your canine is a beloved family member, all dogs are still considered hunters and scavengers who thrive on raw meat. That’s why dogs who barf, make cheerful and much stronger companions for years to come.
Let’s take a look at some of the healthy benefits that raw foods provide.
Teeth, gums and breath – When feeding commercial dog foods, most dogs accumulate tarter build up which often leads to bad breath and sometimes even tooth loss. Hence, when feeding raw crunchy bones, you won’t have to worry about expensive cleanings because it naturally eliminates plaque and freshens breath.
“Dogs on raw food have healthier mouths and overall, very little tarter. Some of the “doggie” breath is related to an imbalance of micro flora in the gut,” explains Dr. Maier. “The odor may come from the mouth or stomach. Processing kibble often destroys many nutrients in the food, leading to an imbalance in the micro flora.”
Skin and coat – If you’re dog has dry itching skin, a sparse coat or infections, the barf diet is just what the doctor ordered. “By providing the proper nutrients, in the most digestible form provides the building blocks needed for a healthy coat,” Dr. Maier says.
Allergies – “Many allergies are because of poor nutrition, causing leaky gut syndrome,” says homeopathic veterinarian, speaker and author, Dr. Christina Chambreau. “Most dogs’ allergies resolve because of the nutrition and improved vibrational pattern.”
Disease – “Every disease can be helped with a fresh food diet as it provides the nutrients needed for health,” explains Dr. Chambreau.
Foods to feed – Feeding Fido proteins like beef, chicken, lamb, turkey, pork, vegetables and fruit can improve physical well-being. You might also consider adding dairy and yogurt to Fido’s new diet. Thus, when feeding yogurt, make sure it contains active, live cultures. These cultures are a natural form of Probiotics that help aid digestion.
Foods to avoid – Dr. Chambreau says, “Avoid grapes and raisins because of the recent deaths caused from them. Avoid large amounts of onions, (garlic is ok). No chocolate.”
Supplements – Calcium is an essential vitamin; but if your dog is consuming crunchy raw bones, calcium is not necessary.
Water consumption – Unlike highly processed kibble, the water from a fresh food diet has not been removed. The barf diet has a higher moisture content, so if Fido is drinking less, don’t panic.
Making the transition – According to Steve Brown, co-author of “See Spot Live Longer”, a properly prepared raw diet is a gradual process. “A good way to do it is to feed raw for one meal and kibble for another. The more fresh food for dogs, the better. There are many types of raw diets, but a properly prepared, ancestral-type diet is best because it is high in protein, has balanced fats, low in carbohydrates, antioxidants and a trace of mineral rich,” he explains.
Tips to remember – Always wash your hands after handling raw food. Keep counters clean and sanitized and thoroughly wash your pet’s bowl after each meal to prevent bacteria from setting in.
Now that you know all the basics to improve the optimal health of your best-friend, a properly balanced all-natural diet is by far, the best approach. If you’re still in doubt, here are a few helpful links for more information.
You can also purchase some useful books at the following links.
http://www.seespotlivelonger.com/home/sll/page_10
http://www.seespotlivelonger.com/home/sll/page_9/unlocking_the_canine_ancestral_diet.html
I would love to hear your feedback, so send me all your comments.
I’ve had many articles published at Fitness Plus Magazine. Here’s the link to view them if you want to check them out. http://fitplusmag.com/magazine/author/annblanton/ Currently, I just had my first short story titled, “Shattered Spirits”, published as an anthology in a book titled, “Heartscapes”.
Milk does the body good
Posted on: December 28, 2012
- In: Health
- 7 Comments
Got Milk?
Photo by: http://www.flickr.com/photos/osakasteve/46313188
Milk does the body good
by Ann Blanton
As children we were told to drink milk because it helps to build strong bones and teeth. But, as adults, we don’t think it still applies, so we have the tendency to slack off. This couldn’t be further from the truth; simply because this creamy white fluid is a natural source of vitamin D and calcium.
An important mineral called calcium help to maintain strong bones and muscles, including the most vital muscle of the body – the heart. Without it, the body will take calcium from your bones, which is the only other source that it has. It can also put you at risk for thin and brittle bones later in life. It takes one single cup to get one third of your daily calcium requirements.
There are many health reasons why you can benefit from vitamin D. Let’s take a look at some of those causes.
1. Vitamin D provides calcium balance in the body that can prevent osteoporosis and arthritis.
2. It also regulates blood pressure, reduces stress and tension.
3. Relieves aches and pains by reducing muscle spasms
4. Helps fight against depression.
5. It also aids in the secretion of insulin.
To reap the benefits, any amounts will suffice. However, according to experts, three eight ounce glasses daily will provide you with all the calcium you need, plus seventy- five percent of vitamin D. This tasty wellness drink provide important nutrients from protein which include vitamin A, B12, D, potassium, phosphorous, riboflavin and niacin.
The importance of these vitamin include:
Vitamin A – Facilitates the immune system, normal vision and good skin.
B -12 – Assists healthy red blood cells and nerve tissue.
Vitamin D– Helps in the absorption of calcium.
Niacin – It’s important for the significance of the nervous system. It also keeps enzymes functioning normally and helps the body process sugars and fat.
Potassium – Helps to keep a good blood pressure
Phosphorus and Riboflavin – Strengthens bones and gives you energy
Disease Prevention – Osteoporosis
It’s crucial to build strong bone mass during childhood and throughout adolescence, in order to prevent osteoporosis. Although milk is the preferred source of calcium for overall bone health, there are other ways to stop bone loss. These tips contain:
1. A healthy lifestyle of no smoking or the intake of alcoholic beverages.
2. A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
3. Weight bearing and resistance training exercises
4. Bone density testing
Memory Loss – Vitamin B-12 is an important key factor to maintain the nervous system. Some scientists have discovered that milk has the best source of B-12 that can decrease the damage to the brain. Studies show that by drinking two cups daily, can protect against memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Diabetes – Some studies show that milk may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes in middle aged or older women.
More diseases – Other findings such as chronic diseases like coronary heart disease, stroke and colorectal cancer have also declines due to the consumption of milk.
Weight Loss – New research shows that milk can also help fight against the battle of the bulge. Two glasses of milk each day can help you drop those unwanted pounds. Typically, adults who have consumed the highest amounts of calcium and vitamin D, lost an average of twelve pounds over a period of time.
Beauty benefits – Hair, Nails and Skin
Research has discovered that the essential vitamins found in cow’s milk can provide, healthy, beautiful, shiny locks. The proteins and lipids work to strengthen hair, while the calcium promotes hair growth and aids in hair loss.
Nails – Fingernails need the proper nutrition to grow just like the rest of your body. Calcium is one of the minerals that can help. Although calcium may support healthy nail growth, it will not help them grow faster.
Skin – Vitamin A is an excellent source for good eyesight, but it also tackles skin problems like wrinkles and pigmentation changes. Because milk is high in hormones, if you’re acne prone, you might need to reduce your intake.
Whole milk is also high in fat and calories, therefore, if you’re watching your weight, you can switch to the low- fat version.
Stop by often. I always appreciate all your comments.
I’ve had many articles published at Fitness Plus Magazine. Here’s the link if you want to check them out. http://fitplusmag.com/magazine/author/annblanton/ I’ve also had my first creative story published as an anthology in a book titled, “Heartscape”.
The Benefits of Probiotics
Posted on: August 3, 2012
- In: Health | Uncategorized
- 8 Comments
The Benefits of Probiotics
by Ann Blanton
We all crave more energy to help us get through our busy lives. When the body is functioning normally, it takes approximately eighty percent of your energy to digest and eliminate the foods that you eat. No wonder so many people are dragging around by the end of the day.
According to Webster’s dictionary, Probiotics is defined as, “usually dairy food or a dietary supplement containing live bacteria that replaces or adds to the beneficial bacteria normally present in the gastrointestinal tract.” Probiotics also mean “for life”, which is why studies have proven that taking Probiotics is as necessary as taking a multi-vitamin.
You probably already know that good health begins in the digestive tract. The human body consists of trillions of bacteria and microorganisms typically in the gut. Individuals need to continually refill the good bacteria in the abdomen to boost balance in the digestion. The body stays healthy when intestinal floras flourish.
Chronic or acute conditions such as poor digestion, obesity, urinary tract infections and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) can become problematical if they’re not imbalanced. An overgrowth of the yeast fungus, also known as candidiasis, might also be a concern.
“Friendly” flora or “good” bacteria is found in the digestive tract, skin, mouth, rectum and the vagina. In other word, Probiotics keep our stomach, intestines and colon clean and healthy. It supports normal function of the colon, digestion, elimination of waste and prevents yeast, bacteria and parasites. When the “good” flora decreases, the “bad” bacteria and yeast take over. Once this happens, it throws the entire digestive tract off balance; causing the body to become prone to illness, Candida, yeast infection and digestive problems.
Frequently, antibiotics can also kill the “good” bacteria in the large intestine, which makes disease more susceptible. Physicians should always recommend Probiotics in combination while taking antibiotics.
Bad eating habits, chlorinated drinking water, stress, a low immune system, steroids and birth control pills are factors that can interrupt the healthy balance with the bacteria in the body.
Improves digestion
In order for the body to fight off infection, improve digestion. elimination and boost the immune system, you might want to include Probiotics into your diet. By taking Probiotics, they also promote regularity and improve mineral absorption.
There are many sources of Probiotics available in pill form, capsule, liquid or powder. Foods that contain Probiotics include fermented products. Webster’s dictionary defines fermented as: “any of a group of living organisms, as yeasts, molds and certain bacteria that cause fermentation.” Many of these products may already be included in your diet, such as sour cream, yogurt with live cultures and cultured buttermilk. It’s known that “good” bacteria in yogurt can help with diarrhea, gas and bloating. Those who are lactose intolerant and have difficulty digesting milk products, may find drinking acidophilus milk easier to tolerate.
Has this information been useful in learning the advantages thatProbiotics can provide? What benefits have you gained?
I’ve had many articles published at Fitness Plus Magazine. Here’s the link to view them if you want to check them out. http://fitplusmag.com/magazine/author/annblanton/ Currently, I’ve just had my first short story published as an anthology in a book titled, “Heartscapes”.
Vitamin D Trivia Facts
Posted on: July 10, 2012
Foods with vitamin DMost of the time, it’s a good idea to use sunscreen, but it’s okay to enjoy the sun’s rays for about ten minutes without it. By getting a good dose of vitamin D and then slathering on the sunscreen, you get both benefits.
Also referred to as the “sunshine” vitamin, vitamin D is fat-soluble, which means it’s stored in the body and can be made naturally. Two other forms such as D2 and D3 are also important.
We depend on what we eat, the sun and taking a multivitamin to supply us with enough vitamin D; unfortunately, the sun is not always readily available to everyone.
Studies prove that by taking this supplement, you can prevent breast and colon cancer by cutting the risk by fifty-percent. What’s more, you can decrease the possibilities of other types of cancer such as skin, colon, and prostrate, when taking vitamin D. Autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis can also be prevented.
Dosage
Depending on your age will depend on how much vitamin D you should be taking. This is because the older you are, the less vitamin D your skin will produce. Adult males, females and pregnant and lactating women under the age of fifty should take 200 units, fifty to seventy years of age should take 400 units and those over the age of seventy should consume 600 units. Children from birth to five years, should be consuming 200 units every day.
Foods
Dietary sources that include vitamin D include: fortified milk, salmon, tuna, sardines, eggs and cod liver oil. Fruits and vegetables are another good source of vitamin D. In fact, it’s almost impossible to get optimal levels from the foods that you eat. You’d have to eat at least two or three servings of salmon or sardines, drink five glasses of milk and take a spoonful of cod liver oil and that still wouldn’t be sufficient.
Benefits
This wonder supplement has been known to control blood pressure, reduce stress and tension and reduce spasms that are caused from aches and pains. It also helps fight depression, improves skin health and increases cardiovascular strength.
Vitamin D Deficient
This is common if you live in a place where sun exposure is infrequent or if you’re housebound. Signs that may occur are: muscle pain, depression, mood swings, fractures, low energy, fatigue and sleep irregularities.
Prevention
A good way to prevent vitamin D deficiency is by limited unprotected sun exposure, take a good quality multivitamin along with vitamin D and eat a diet that is rich in whole foods. If you’re someone who’s fortunate enough to live where there’s plenty of sunshine, get out and enjoy the rays. If not, then you might consider taking it in supplement form. So, how do you get your dose of vitamin D?
I’ve had many articles published at Fitness Plus Magazine. Here’s the link to view them if you want to check them out. http://fitplusmag.com/magazine/author/annblanton/ I’ll also have my first creative story published as an anthology in a book titled, “Heartscapes”, in a few short weeks.
Ann Blanton Let's talk health, fitness, nutrition and everything in between 