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I've Moved!

2007-08-22T04:48:00.001-07:00

Not my house, not my business...MY BLOG!

Here's where you can find me now:
The Simple Life of the SuperMom

Hope to see you there!

Improve Your Memory by Exercising Your Brain

2007-08-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows that the key to a healthy body is diet and exercise. Many people obsessively work out every day to keep in tip top shape. So, if we’re so concerned with exercising our bodies, why do we often neglect to exercise our minds? Our brains are just like our muscles: use it or lose it. If we don’t do daily activities to help keep our brain in top order, we lose important skills; particularly the skill of remembering. So if you want to remember your mother’s phone number, your grocery list, or where you left your keys; start exercising your brain.

So, how exactly do you exercise your brain? There’s no brain gym you can get a membership to with “memory classes,” but there are things you can do on your own. Here are some things you can try to keep your neurons limber.

Open a newspaper
Sure, reading the paper might expand your knowledge, but if you really want to get your brain in shape, turn to the crossword puzzle. You can also try solving other puzzles that require using your language skills. These help you remember things by making you regularly access simple memories (i.e. certain words)

Try the latest puzzle craze
Go to a book store, go online, or look in the paper; you’re likely to find Sudoku puzzles. These are number puzzles that are becoming increasingly popular. They help exercise your brain’s deductive reasoning skills. Plus, they’re fun and incredibly addictive.

Learn something new
You’ve probably heard people say that learning something new pushes old information out of your brain. This is not only wrong, it’s just plain silly. The capacity of your brain is only determined by how much you want to put in it. Try learning a new skill or how to play a musical instrument. Learning a skill and continue to use it will keep your memory accessing skills limber.

Books, games and services
While there aren’t actually gyms you can go to, there are ways to get exercises specifically designed to improve memory. You can find these in book stores, online, and even in video game stores.

While it’s great to exercise your brain cells, don’t skip out on your trips to the gym. Keeping your body in good physical shape will help keep your brain healthy too. While cardio is the best work out to keep you healthy, you can still keep your memory if you can’t perform a strenuous workout. Even a simple walk for an hour a day can help prevent or slow memory loss. So get up and go as much as you can to keep your brain going.

Most people don’t worry about memory loss until they start to notice it slipping away, but the best time to start is while your mind is still sharp. You may not be able to bring your memory back, but you can keep it from fading. Regularly working your mind has even been shown to ward off Alzheimer’s. So if you want to keep your mind sharp, be sure to eat right, get enough rest, and exercise regularly.

Skin Cancer: What to Look For

2007-08-06T04:51:00.000-07:00

There are several forms of skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and the worst form of skin cancer known as Malignant Melanoma. Let’s discuss what to look for, symptoms, and when you should contact your doctor.

Basal Cell Carcinoma
This is a common form of skin cancer usually caused by over-exposure to the sun. This type of skin cancer grows slowly, rarely spreads, and is seldom life-threatening. While it may vary in appearance, it is usually characterized by a small, flat module which gradually may turn into an open sore with raised edges. It appears frequently on the face, usually around the eyes, near the nose or on the nose, as well as on other sun-exposed areas including the back, chest, arms, and legs. For proper diagnosis and treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma, see your doctor.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This is also a common form of skin cancer which is rarely life-threatening. It starts as a small, firm, painless lump or patch, and resembles a wart or an open sore. It is also associated with over-exposure to the sun and can occur anywhere on the body. It is most common on the back of the hands or on the lips. If you have a lump on your skin that does not heal within three weeks, check with your doctor.

Malignant Melanoma
This is the most deadly form of skin cancer. It is sometimes associated with exposure to the sun, but can occur anywhere on the body including parts of the body not exposed to the sun. It most often appears on the face, upper chest or legs, and usually grows from existing moles. Malignant moles may bleed and can resemble sores that do not heal. If you think you have a melanoma, contact your doctor immediately.

Identifying skin cancers can be difficult. However, there are ways in which you can determine if you have any of the above three skin cancers.

Cancerous moles are often asymmetrical, that is, one half of the mole looks different from the other half. The outline of a cancerous mole can be uneven or have poor defined edges and may change over time. Melanomas can be very dark in color and contain shades of tan, brown, white, red, or blue. Moles that grow larger than a half inch across may be a sign of malignant melanomas, although smaller moles can also indicate malignancy as well.

Green Tea for Weightloss

2007-08-05T07:22:00.000-07:00

Green tea has been used for centuries and still remains one of the most popular teas in China and contains powerful antioxidants which may help fight against heart disease, cancers and other diseases. More recently studies have shown that green tea is also beneficial to weight loss.

One of the most recent studies which appeared in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed people who drank a bottle of green tea extract everyday for three months lost more body fat than the participants who drank regular tea.

It is thought the chemical epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) found in green tea raises the metabolism while also releasing the hormone noradrenaline which is an appetite suppressant.

The study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition also indicated the consumption of catechins in green tea lead to both reduced body fat and LDL cholesterol levels.

Now that you know the many benefits of green tea, just how do you need to drink to lose weight?

Based on the recent research you would need to consume at least 4 cups of green tea daily to see any results. There are now also green tea supplements on the market which provide higher concentrated doses of green tea in a capsule form. The quality of the supplements will vary so it’s best to do your research.

But you don’t really need to take supplements to receive all the benefits of green tea. Try replacing your daily cups of coffee or regular tea with green tea. It’s also a good drink in between meals which may help satisfy your hunger pangs while providing your body with a good dose of antioxidants.

There are so many benefits to drinking green tea that weight loss is really just the icing on the cake. This is one great way to stay healthy while shedding a few excess pounds.

Spinach & Tomato Ravioli

2007-08-03T06:43:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1 cup tomatoes -- peeled, seeded,diced
1 small onion -- oven roasted
1 cup mushrooms -- minced
2 teaspoons garlic -- minced
1/2 pound spinach leaves -- blanched, chopped
1/4 cup nonfat cottage cheese
3/4 cup tofu -- mashed
2 Tablespoons fresh basil -- minced
Ground black pepper
salt -- to taste
48 eggless ravioli dumplings

Directions:
Combine tomatoes, onion, garlic, and mushrooms in large pot. Cook over medium heat until mushroom liquid evaporates and mixture becomes a bit dry. Do not over cook. Once complete, set aside to cool. Once cooled combine with spinach, cottage cheese, basil and tofu. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Place a single layer of ravioli dumplings on a cutting board and moisten edges with water using a pastry brush. Add one Tablespoon of spinach mixture to the middle of each skin. Top with a second ravioli dumpling and press edges together to seal. Place ravioli in boiling water for 3 minutes and cook for 3-4 minutes, until raviolis are firm, not soft.

Find Out How Sleep Can Keep You Looking Younger

2007-08-02T07:14:00.000-07:00

Every company today seems to be marketing a new product that can make you look and feel younger. You can find them all over billboards, magazines, T.V. and the internet. So why are there so many products claiming take ten years off? Simple, most people are willing to spend lots of time and money searching for the proverbial fountain of youth. If you’re one of these people, then I have a great secret to share with you. Instead of spending late nights buying creams and pills; put you wallet or pocketbook away and go to bed. If you want to look and feel younger, look no further than a good night’s rest.

Who looks younger...a healthy person, or a sick person? Chances are you answered “the healthy person.” Being sick can make you look old and haggard. Well, one big side effect of sleep deprivation is that it can severely compromise your immune system, making you get sick more often. Sleeping keeps you healthy and looking great.

Even if you don’t catch colds or other illnesses a lot, if you’re not getting enough sleep your body isn’t as healthy as it could be. Stage 4, or deep sleep, helps restore and renew the cells of our bodily organs. This helps them function properly and lets the body work as efficiently as possible. If our organs don’t work properly, it can take a toll on our physical appearance. That means you don’t look as good as you could. Plus, even if you’re not sick, you probably won’t feel as healthy as you might if you had enough sleep.

So you already now know that deep restorative sleep helps renew organ tissue and keep them in peak condition, but do you know what your body’s largest organ is? If you said skin, you’re absolutely right. And what’s the most important factor in determining how young or old you look? Your skin! Proper sleep will allow old, dead skin cells to be replaced with beautiful, fresh, new skin cells quickly and efficiently. This will leave you and your skin looking younger.

Have you ever noticed that when you’re in a bad mood, depressed, or just not feeling good about life, you don’t look as good? It’s not just your perception; how you feel affects facial expressions body posture, and other factors that determine how we look. When you’re well rested, you feel younger; and when you feel younger you look younger.

So how much sleep is enough to keep you looking and feeling younger? Well, that depends on you. Generally it’s recommended that adults get 8 hours of sleep; however, there are people who can function just fine on less. Others need at least 9 hours of sleep to feel refreshed. If you feel tired and sluggish in the morning, or require an alarm clock to get up (yes, I’m serious); you’re not getting enough sleep. If you get as much sleep as your body will allow and still feel sluggish in the morning, you may have a serious sleep disorder and should see a doctor.

So if you want to look younger and feel better, head to bed.

Ground Oat Body Scrub

2007-08-01T07:22:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons rolled oats ground
2 teaspoons brown sugar
2 Tablespoons aloe vera
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:
Put rolled oats in blender and blend into a very fine powder. Place oats in small mixing bowl. Add brown sugar and lemon juice. Mix well. Once mixed, add aloe vera and stir into a paste being sure there are no lumps. Dampen the skin you will be applying paste to and massage paste onto skin. Rinse with warm water. Double the recipe to use over entire body.

Mexican Chicken Wraps

2007-07-31T08:07:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
2 cups skinless boneless chicken breast, cooked and cubed
1/2 cup light sour cream
1/2 cup chunky salsa
2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
4 cholesterol free flour tortillas about 10 inches in diameter

Instructions:
Combine salsa, mayonnaise, and the sour cream. Then mix in the cheddar cheese and chicken. Evenly scoop onto the tortillas and sprinkle with lettuce. Fold over the sides and serve.

Trouble Conceiving? Tips for Raising Your Chances

2007-07-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

Everywhere you look, it seems like everyone has a baby. Maybe it’s your neighbors, friends, or just famous people on T.V. This can make the fact that you can’t seem to get pregnant even more disconcerting.

Before you get frustrated or upset, remember that your chances of having a child are better than they’ve ever been. Not only are there new technologies to help you have a child, there’s also more extensive research on what helps and hurts your chances of conception.

Here are a few tips to help start you on the track to having your own child.

Consult a Professional
If you’re having problems conceiving, you should start by seeing health care professional. While many people’s fertility problems can be solved without medical intervention, it’s best to make sure you don’t require treatment in order to have a child. The man should be tested first because fertility testing is much easier for males.

Cut Back on Your Bad Habits
Consuming alcohol and caffeine, and smoking can all decrease fertility factors in men and women. In the case of smoking, these effects may be permanent; so start quitting today.

Possible Medical Conditions?
When people think of fertility and doctors, they often think of in vitro fertilization and other artificial forms of conception, but that’s not all they can do. For instance, the most common cause of infertility in men is a varicose vein blocking the passage of sperm which can be corrected with a minor surgery. There are other problems that also require simple treatments to fix.

Cut Back on the Sex
It may seem contradictive, but many couples don’t get pregnant because they’re having sex too often. Frequent ejaculation causes the sperm count to be lower because men can only produce sperm so fast. For the highest sperm count, you should wait three days to have sex again. Because of this, a fertility monitor can come in handy so you know when the best time to conceive is. By taking three day breaks, it is very easy to miss your window of opportunity if you’re not careful.

Cut Back on the Stress
Another common cause of infertility is high stress levels. This creates a cyclical problem because the longer it takes you to conceive, the more stressed you get that something might be wrong. You and your spouse should both take time to relax and unwind. You might consider doing yoga together or just giving each other massages at the end of the day.

Watch Your Diet
Eat a healthy, well balanced diet. While most women know they should eat right once they get pregnant, many don’t think about eating good foods while trying to conceive. Your reproductive organs work best when the rest of your body is healthy too. This means eating the foods to stay at your best. Your diets should include organic and natural food products. Eating traditionally grown products can severely inhibit fertility rates. Many foods contain hormones and other chemicals that can throw your natural levels out of whack, decreasing your chances of conceiving.

If your doctor says you’re both fertile, the best method to conceive is to just keep trying. While it may be frustrating, the natural method is usually the best.

Trouble Sleeping? Food Might Help

2007-07-27T03:54:00.000-07:00

People with insomnia will try most anything to get to sleep. The endless tossing and turning can be agonizing, so why not try a sleep medicine to get some severely needed rest? Well, because the solution may be much easier than that. Next time you just can’t seem to sleep, try opening the refrigerator for relief instead of the medicine cabinet.

While we tend to overlook it, we all know that food can make us sleepy. After eating a big turkey dinner, it’s hard to do anything but lie down and take a nap. This is because of a chemical you’ve probably heard a lot about in recent years: tryptophan. So what exactly is tryptophan? It actually allows your body to produce an amino acid called L-Tryptophan. This amino acid is essential in the production of the neurotransmitters serotonin and melatonin. These help slow down the nerve traffic in your brain, relax you, and allow you to think less and sleep more.

While you’ve already felt the relaxing powers turkey has, you probably aren’t too happy about the prospect of eating turkey before bed every single night. Well, the good news is that turkey isn’t the only source of tryptophan. This chemical is found in dairy products, soy, meat (especially poultry), nuts, fish, beans, eggs, hummus and most other high-protein foods. Eating a small amount of these foods shortly before bed time can help you sleep soundly.

The problem with many of the foods that contain tryptophan is that they also contain an amino acid called tyrosine. This produces chemicals that perk you up and make you more energized. Eaten alone, these acids will counteract each other produce no significant effects in either direction. The key to getting rest is to eat other foods that will allow you to utilize the tryptophan and not the tyrosine. Excellent foods for accomplishing this effect are carbohydrates. They encourage your body to produce insulin which “ties up” the tyrosine and allows the tryptophan to reach the brain without competition. Just be sure to avoid too large amounts of carbs and simple sugars. You can produce too much insulin; causing you to wake up not long after you’ve fallen asleep.

Another way to get the full benefit of tryptophan is to eat foods that will increase your brain’s absorption of this amino acid. The best way to do this is with calcium. And we already learned that dairy products are a great source of tryptophan. This is why our mother’s always gave us a warm glass of milk at night to help us rest; because it works.

So, if you just can’t seem to settle down and get to sleep, try a late night meal containing nature’s sleeping pill: tryptophan. Just remember not too eat too much at night or you’ll likely wake up a few hours later. The most effective plan is to have a moderately sized dinner and a small snack an hour or two before bed. If you eat the right foods at bedtime, you’ll bed drifting off to dreamland in no time.

Quick Look Good Tips for the SuperMom

2007-07-25T05:56:00.000-07:00

Make-up is an essential part of what makes us feel good...sometimes it's what make you feel like a human. Yet, a little bit of lipstick and some blush is all that is needed for your everyday look before you go out the door. If you’re going out in the evening or have a special event planned, however, you may want to give yourself the full treatment. If that’s the case, here are some quick look good tips for moms.

First, take a shower, wash and blow dry your hair. Grab a glass of wine and give yourself a manicure and pedicure to relax and soothe. NOW you are ready to apply the makeup.

Use a concealer to hide blemishes or circles under the eyes.
Apply foundation which matches your skin tone. Use powder to keep both the foundation and concealer intact.
Use a pencil to floor in your eyebrows, if applicable. If it’s not necessary, ensure your eyebrows are well-defined by plucking excessive hair.
Next, apply eyeliner with either a pencil or brush.
Use mascara on upper and lower lashes. Choose a color which compliments your skin tone.
Apply blush to your cheeks.
Choose a lipstick color suitable to your skin tone; and use a lip liner to accent. Top it off with a little gloss to give you shine.

Tell the truth; don’t you feel like a million bucks? Along with the outfit you bought for the special occasion, you look and feel terrific, right? Even though you always look your best, special occasions call for a little extra time to take care of you. When you look good, you feel good. Enjoy yourself, you deserve it!

Low-Fat Berry Trifle

2007-07-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1 8oz package of low-fat cream cheese
2 cups fat-free milk
1 8.5oz package angel food cake (cut into 1-inch slices)
1 8oz package of whipped topping
1 cup sliced strawberries
1 cup raspberries or blueberries
1 package instant vanilla pudding (low-fat)

Directions:
Beat cream cheese in a large bowl using an electric mixer. Slowly add milk, ½ cupful at a time and mixing well. Add pudding mix and mix well. Gently stir in whipped topping and then fold in fruit.

Arrange 1/3 of the angel cake slices into a serving bowl and top with 1/3 of the pudding and fruit mixture, repeat layers two more times. Refrigerate until set (about 30 minutes) and serve.

Say Goodbye to Bleach and Hello to Lemon Juice

2007-07-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

What would you say if I told you that there’s a cleaning product that’s safe and all natural, cleans, disinfects and deodorizes, and doesn’t cost a fortune? You probably wouldn’t believe me. Then you definitely won’t believe me when I tell you that you may have it hidden in the door of your refrigerator.

What’s this magical cleaning product? It’s plain old lemon juice. You can use lemon juice instead of bleach to clean your house safely and effectively. In fact, you can use it in places you wouldn’t consider putting bleach.

When you taste lemon juice, it’s pretty obvious that it’s a strong acid. The beauty of an acid is that they dissolve things water can’t. That includes dirt and also parts of bacteria vital to survival. Cleaning with the power of lemons not only removes dirt, it also disinfects to keep your family safe.

You can mix lemon juice with water and put it in a squirt bottle. You can use it instead of your all purpose cleaner to scrub the kitchen, bathroom, and even clean walls and floors. For extra cleaning power, add a little baking soda and borax. Just be sure to test an inconspicuous area ahead of time to prevent staining. Also, remember that borax is toxic if ingested, so be careful where you spray.

Instead of adding bleach to your whites in the wash, add lemon juice instead. You can also mix lemon juice with cream of tartar and use as a stain remover. After washing, hang your clothes in the sun to dry and you’ll see how white your laundry can be without the smell and dangers of bleach. Plus, you can use the same mixture on your colors. Just don’t leave them out in the sun to dry.

Have you noticed lately that most disinfecting products have an alternative version that smells like lemons? That’s because lemons naturally have a fresh, clean scent. Instead of cleaning with lemon scented chemicals, why not try getting your fresh lemon scented kitchen from actual lemons.

Many people aren’t so happy about cleaning with sponges. And why would they be? Sponges trap all the nasty dirt and bacteria and keep in around for the next time you clean. Plus, they’re a pain to clean. Next time you clean, ditch the sponge and cleaner and pull out a fresh lemon. It’s easy to hold, packed full of cleaning power, and can be thrown away when you’re done.

Not happy with a product that just cleans your house and makes it smell great? Well lemon juice can also be used to polish, shine, and remove tarnish from the copper, chrome, and other metals in your house. All you do is add a little salt or baking soda to a freshly cut lemon and rub it onto the metal’s surface.

For added cleaning power, lemon juice can be mixed with other natural cleaners. We’ve already said that borax and baking soda can help boost your all purpose cleaner. Try mixing lemon juice with baking soda to make a great drain cleaner. It works as well as vinegar and baking soda, but leaves that lemony scent.

These are just a few of the many uses of this powerful cleaner. It’s a great way to leave you house looking a smelling great.

15 Tips to Help Reduce Your Bloating

2007-07-19T08:04:00.000-07:00

One of the most uncomfortable feelings in the world is when you’re bloated, right? Clothes do not fit properly, you become irritable, and pain often accompanies the symptom, especially during PMS. While most people who experience bloating are affected by different foods or drinks, here are some tips to help reduce bloating.

Reduce your sodium intake. Salt is the number one contributor to bloating.
Exercise as much as you can.
Avoid foods which are gassy such as cabbage, beans, milk and other vegetables and foods which contain lactose.
When eating meals, chew slowly. The old adage of chewing 100 times may be true. Lay down your fork between each bite.
Avoid chewing gum to reduce the amount of air you are swallowing.
Avoid powdered milk as it contains salt which increases bloating.
Too many starchy foods combined with protein contribute to bloating.
Try not to drink anything that is very cold, but keep it at room temperature.
Do not eat too much of anything. Portion control can reduce bloating.
Check to determine what condiments may cause your bloating, such as mayonnaise and the like.
Eating processed foods such as mac and cheese can cause bloating due to its high sodium content.
Snacks such as chips and certain types of cheese flavored popcorn have high sodium content.
Avoid diet sodas and candies.
Constipation may also be a factor in bloating. Eat foods rich in fiber.
Drink chamomile tea, which is not only good for the digestive system, but reduces bloating as well.

Finally, and this may be hard to take ladies, but experts suggest that avoiding chocolate during your menstrual period will reduce the bloating as well. The reason is because chocolate contains both sugar and dairy, thus contributing to the bloating problem. However, no one can definitively tell you not to eat chocolate, especially when you are PMSing! Between the water retention and the bloating, denying yourself chocolate can be a lethal request.

These tips to help reduce bloating depend upon what actually causes it in your particular case. Keep track of those foods, drinks, and habits which contribute to it. Once you ascertain the cause, you’ll most likely never have to deal with it again.

Homemade Lotion Softens Your Skin

2007-07-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

Do you have irritated and dry skin? Try this homemade recipe for lotion to soften it up.

Ingredients:
1 cup dried chamomile
4 Tablespoons honey
1 cup milk
8 teaspoons wheat germ

Directions:
Place milk in small sauce pan on low heaat. Add chamomile and allow to simmer on low for a couple of hours. Pour through a strainer to remove any remaining dried chamomile. Place wheat germ and honey to liquid mixing well. Use as a lotion over entire body. Lotion stays fresh in the refrigerator for one week.

Sausage, Bean and Cheese Dip Cajun Style

2007-07-17T06:42:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1 can chili-seasoned diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon hot sauce
2 teaspoon cajun seasoning
2 can pinto or red kidney beans (16 ounce) , rinsed, drained and mashed with a fork
1 cup chopped green bell-pepper
1/2 cup diced reduced-fat smoked sasage
Cooking spray
4 cups freshly shredded reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Baked Tortilla chips

Directions:
Preheat ove to 350 F. Mix together tomatoes, water, hot sauce, cajun seasoning, beans, green bell-pepper, and smoked sausage. Spray 2 quart casserole dish with cooking spray. Place mixture into casserole dish. Bake for 30 minutes or until boiling. Sprinkle cheese over the top and bake for 5 more minutes. Best if served with low-fat tortilla chips.

Bowflex Home Gym

2007-07-16T09:46:00.000-07:00

Turn on the TV on any given day and you will find infomercials promoting the Bowflex Home Gym series. With so many enthusiasts trying to find the best method to exercise during their free time, this home gym serves as an excellent source for a total body workout. Let’s take a look at what this Bowflex Home Gym has to offer.

The Bowflex Home Gym delivers over 60 gym-quality exercises that allow you to work your chest, arms, back, legs, and more. This home gym provides 210 lbs. of resistance, is constructed from sturdy steel, incorporates comfortable vinyl cushion seating, and folds to a compact size for storage. Assembly is not included. Features include: Bowflex Power Rods, upgradeable to 310 or 410 pounds; lat tower with angled lat bar, lower pulley/squat station, leg extension/leg curl attachment, sliding seat for rowing; folds to a compact size of 52 by 38 inches; and a five-year warranty.

The benefits in owning the Bowflex Home gym are immeasurable. It can be set up in two hours since all of the necessary components are well packed. The instructions are very easy to follow. The Power Rods provide very smooth resistance and wonderful range of motion. The resistance builds as you flex the power rods, and is very easy on the joints at the beginning of the motion; yet still provide enough to break down your muscles toward the end of the motion. The DVD provides instruction for basic 15 exercises, and the manual covers over 60 different exercises. The weight and type of exercises are easy to change, and will not interfere with your workout.

While the Bowflex is approximately 7 feet tall, it should be noted it takes up a huge amount of space. It has wheels, but you will not be able to fit it through most doors, so think long and hard before you decide which room you will place it. As with any other piece of exercise equipment, if you make good use of it, the price is worth it. With its solid construction, warranty, variety, ease of motion and operation, this is one terrific long term value.

Where Can You Buy It? Amazon.com

Could Your Headache Be a Migraine?

2007-07-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

Do you have headaches which seem to linger on and on no matter what type of over-the-counter medication you take? Is the pain located on one side of your head? Do you become sensitive to light and sound? Do you feel sick from it? If you answer yes to any of these questions, it is most likely the case that it’s not a headache at all, but a terrible migraine.

It is estimated that more than 29 million Americans suffer from migraines, and unfortunately women are affected more than men. What complicates this further is that most migraines are attributed to sinus infections or tension headaches.

Migraines are typically caused by stress, skipping a meal, lack of sleep, medications, sunlight, TV, certain foods, or loud constant noise. The pain is caused when brain cells set off a specific nerve which releases chemicals that cause swelling of the blood vessels on the surface of the brain. The result is a pain felt around the eye or temple area.

Not easily diagnosed, routine CT scans may be performed to determine if there are any other underlying causes. This is certainly no comfort to those who experience migraines. While there are many reasons why someone would develop migraines, it is suggested by doctors that a diary is kept to determine the frequency of the migraines and what event played a role in its onset.

Accordingly, the FDA has approved three over-the-counter medications to treat migraines. Whether or not they are effective, only the individual experiencing the pain can determine. However, it should be noted that some of these medications can cause side effects. Moreover, more potent medications have also been approved by the FDA to control the incidents of migraines. However, these also may have adverse effects.

Another type of therapy, one that has been used as an alternative to drugs, is biofeedback. Using a specific type of equipment which monitors physical tension, a migraine patient has the ability to control the catalyst which contributes to the stress. After a certain amount of time, the patient can then use this technique without equipment to either stop the attack or minimize its effects.

Migraines are and can be debilitating. Whether you choose drug therapy or biofeedback therapy, it is up to you to decide which treatment is most effective and carries with it less risk in developing side effects.

Ham, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

2007-07-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
3 cups French Bread, cubed
1 cup reduced fat ham, diced
Non-fat cooking spray
Egg Beater =to 1 egg, beaten lightly
1 1/3 cup fat-free milk
1/2 teaspoons dry mustard
1/4 teaspoons garlic powder
1/4 teaspoons onion powder
1/4 teaspoons paprika
1/8 teaspoons black pepper
1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup fat-free cheese, grated

Directions:
Place cubed bread into a Pyrex dish and spray with cooking spray. Sprinkle evenly with red pepper, ham and cheese. Mix together the egg substitute, milk, onion powder, black pepper, and garlic powder and pour over bread cubes also. Sprinkle with paprika. Refrigerate covered for 3 hours before baking. When the casserole is ready for baking, preheat the oven to 350 F. Cook for until browned (approximately 40 minutes).

Dr. Bronner's Soap

2007-07-12T12:07:00.000-07:00

For natural/non-toxic cleaning products, you may want to try Dr. Bronner’s soap. Made from organic oils, it consists of: Saponified Organic Coconut, Organic Palm and Organic Olive Oils (with Retained Glycerin), Water, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Natural Bitter Almond Fragrance, Salt, Citric Acid, and Vitamin E.

Available in a wide variety of liquids and solids, Dr. Bronner’s Soap comes in Almond, Peppermint, Lavender, All One Hemp Tea Tree, Aloe Vera Baby Mild, Rose and Eucalyptus.

Here are what customers have to say about Dr. Bronner’s Soaps: “Dr. Bronner's is really fantastic stuff! I keep finding more and more uses for it around the house. I have replaced all of our toxic synthetic chemical products with this! The only thing I find it terrible for is washing windows, it leaves a film and you spend more time removing the film than the dirt! Otherwise, this stuff can easily replace 6-10 products around the home.

Almond is my favorite for a nice mild and pleasing scent! Be warned of the Peppermint, even though the peppermint is natural, it is extremely strong smelling. So strong, it can cause irritation for some people. I would recommend Peppermint for hand soap, dishes, laundry, and anything outdoors. I would use something like Unscented, Lavender or Almond for general house cleaning, body soap and shampoo. I have dry skin. Up to this point I have been using Ivory Soap and it is horrible on my skin. A couple days of using Bronners, and my skin is back to being normal! I love how this product rinses off so easily and leaves no films.”

Another user wrote: “This is a great soap. You can also use it as an ingredient for a natural cleaner (non commercial cleaner) and use it to clean around the kitchen, bathroom and house. Just mix a little lemon juice, soap, and water and you can kill a lot of germs around the house naturally.”

This user commented: “This product is by far the best soap for bathing. I use it by putting just a small squirt which foams up into a massive amount of suds. You will notice after using this soap that you don't need skin lotion anymore - you don't suffer dryness, cracking etc., especially caused by mass-produced products full of chemicals. All of the different soap scents are wonderful and have a noticeable difference. Peppermint will truly make you feel much cooler. Eucalyptus makes you feel warmer and clears your sinuses. Lavender is very soothing and relaxing; and rose induces a happy state of mind. Also this product can be used for tons of other things around the house and is far superior to other products. You can clean anything with this stuff. I've also used it as a pest spray for my garden. The product is made by a very nice group of spiritual folks who are carrying on the philosophies of Dr. Bronner as printed on his labels, and they strictly adhere to green practices and ingredients. They've been making this for a very long time and hopefully will continue on forever! Definitely try any of the Dr. Bronner products, they are truly amazing.”

Where Can You Buy It? Amazon.com

Endometriosis - The 4 Stages

2007-07-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

So, you or a loved one has been diagnosed with endometriosis, and been told what stage the disease is at, but you’re not really sure what this means. Maybe your doctor will soon be doing a procedure to determine the stage and you need more information. Either way, it is important to know exactly what endometriosis is and what the different stages mean.

The endometrium is a layer of cells that grow inside the uterus in preparation for the fertilized egg implanting. If no egg implants, the endometrial cells are shed and women experience a period. In women with endometriosis, this process does not occur quite so smoothly.

Endometriosis is a condition where the endometrium grows into the tissue surrounding the uterus, most often the ovaries. Instead of flowing out of the body during menstruation, the tissue stays in the other areas and eventually grows and scars.

The stage of the disease is determined by several factors, including:

* The location of the growths
* The superficiality or depth of the growths in organs
* How stuck together organs are
* The growth rate of the area

Your doctor can confirm your diagnosis and determine the stage of the disease by doing a simple surgery called a laparoscopy. This is when a camera is inserted into the affected area so the doctor can see the extent of the damage.

When doing a laparoscopy, the doctor will determine the severity of each of these factors and assign numbers. The total number that is reached determines what stage you are. Here is a general description of each stage.

Stage 1: Less than 5. This is considered a very mild case. Adhesions (thin strings of scar tissue spread from one area to another) are superficial, thin and filmy.

Stage 2: 6 to 15. This is still a mild form of the disease. This also includes thin, filmy adhesions, but the patient also has superficial and deep implants of endometrial cells.

Stage 3: 16 to 40. This is moderate endometriosis. Implants are also superficial and deep, but the adhesions are still filmy, but more dense.

Stage 4: Greater than 40. This is the most severe case of the disease. Many women with stage 4 experience infertility because the growths are so severe. This includes deep and superficial implants, but the adhesions are very dense. In very few women, the adhesions will have spread past the lower abdominal cavity.

It is important for women to realize that pain is not a good indicator of the stage of the illness. While it makes sense for symptoms to increase as the disease progresses, many women have severe pain and other complications from only mild cases. In addition, some women never experience visible symptoms. They only find out they have endometriosis during fertility testing and other procedures.

Knowing the stage of your disease will help your doctor determine and appropriate treatment plan for you. However, the stage of your disease has nothing to do with how you’ll respond to treatment. A patient with stage 1 endometriosis may respond poorly to treatment while someone with a higher stage could respond very well. Stage is also not a good indicator of whether or not your disease will reoccur once it is under control.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

2007-07-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

We all want a sparkling, white smile. In fact, many people spend hundreds of dollars a year in search of the perfect shade of white for their teeth. You can get toothpaste, paints, gels, strips, and even light treatments to take the ugly stains off your teeth. With all the options available today, you have to wonder if they’re safe. Many will advocate that whitening ruins the enamel and root of the tooth and leaves it damaged and vulnerable, but what really is the truth?

Most tray based whitening gel systems on the market today have a 10 percent carbamide peroxide solution as their active ingredient. Many studies have been conducted and they’ve shown that, at these concentrations, there is no damage to the enamel of the tooth. You may want to consider using a fluoride toothpaste if you’re concerned about enamel damage. This will help strengthen teeth and repair any possible damage. A disadvantage of these methods is that, because they use lower, safer levels of chemicals; they’re not as effective at whitening teeth as the products a dentist uses. They are; however, a lot cheaper.

There are other home based systems for teeth whitening including toothpastes, strips, and paints. These use the same or less abrasive materials than gel trays, so they are safe to use without damaging enamel. Remember that the less whitening solution a product has, the less effective it will be.

Dentist offices use the same type of solution as over the counter methods; however, they tend to offer higher concentrations so the whitening is more effective. Studies have shown that these concentrations may harm tooth enamel. Most of these treatments not contain fluoride or are offered with a fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and reverse or prevent the damage from the whitening agent. Because of the safety issues, you should always express you concerns to the dentist and ask what options are available to protect your precious smile.

There has been some concern raised that these types of treatments may be considered carcinogens because they break down into free radicals. They also have suggested that teeth whitening may cause root damage to teeth. There have been extensive research studies and there is no evidence to support either of these claims

The problem with many whitening products, even very weak ones such as toothpastes, is that they can cause a problem for people with sensitive teeth. The treatments tend to worsen the level of sensitivity to hot and cold. If you have sensitive teeth, you should discuss treatment options with your dentist. They may be able to suggest whitening treatments that aren’t as harsh on sensitive teeth. You may experience pain when using at-home whitening trays, or gum pain after treatment, even if you don’t have sensitive teeth. If this occurs, you should talk to your doctor.

The bottom line is, as long as you use the treatments properly and follow your dentist’s instructions, teeth whitening is a safe and easy way to brighten up your smile.

Home Treatment for Chlorinated Hair

2007-07-09T08:16:00.000-07:00

Need some relief from your sun-damaged, over-chlorinated hair? Try this home remedy:

Ingredients:
1 egg
1 eggshell's worth of olive oil
1 peeled cucumber quartered

Directions:
Break egg into glass bowl. Pour olive oil in egg shell measure then add to egg. Blend well. Place peeled cumcumber quarter into mixture and blend well making sure cucumber is mashed and mixed in well. Blend into hair beginning at the roots and working to the ends until hair is completely covered. Allow to stay in hair for ten to fifteen minutes. Rinse hair thoroughlywith warm water to remove. Best if treatment is used once a month all year long.

Self Breast Exams - What Are You Looking For?

2007-07-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

One of the most important things a woman can do to protect her health is performing a monthly breast self exam. This is the first line of defense you have against breast health. It can help you learn what healthy breasts look and fell like, so you can detect a problem more easily.

Most people think breast self exams are solely for the purpose of finding lumps in the breast. The first step of the exam is to visually examine your breasts in the mirror. This way you can see outwards signs of a breast health problem, including:

Dimpling. You may notice a rippling or “pulling” of the breast skin and tissue.
Color changes. A darkening of the breast could be a sign of trouble.
Texture changes. Deep tissue changes are important, but you should also pay attention to what the skin on the outside of your breasts feels and looks like.
Size. It’s normal for your breasts to be uneven, but one shouldn’t be getting larger at a faster rate than the other once you’re past puberty.
Fluid. Any fluid coming from the nipple other than breast milk is a cause for concern. You should see a doctor immediately if there is blood coming from the nipple.
Nipple changes. Notice the size and shape, and general appearance of your nipples.

In addition to these other conditions, you should feel your breast looking for lumps. Most breasts have a lumpy of fibrous texture, that’s why it’s important to look for changes, as opposed to simple lumps.

You should also be aware of the texture in each area of your breast and notice lumps that appear in a location they normally don’t. For example, most women have a lumpier texture in the upper portion of their breasts, and a sandier texture underneath. If you notice a lump in an area where your breasts normally feel sandy, this may be cause for concern.

Most women will have lumps that appear naturally and then disappear by their next cycle. You should be aware of lumps that appear suddenly and don’t disappear, or that change or grow over time.

Many women with naturally lumpy breasts can get frustrated because it’s hard to remember every lump and notice changes. In this case, you can keep a journal every month. Write down how your breasts normally feel and any changes you notice from the month before. While this may seem embarrassing, it could save your life.

If you do notice a problem with your breasts, don’t panic. Not all issues are due to breast cancer. Schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible so they can perform tests. Don’t ever put off getting a problem looked at. Early detection could be the key to saving your life.

Cool Off Watermelon and Fruit Salsa

2007-06-27T18:41:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
2 cups variety of fruit (strawberries, kiwi, berries, peaches, etc.)
1 seedless watermelon (or other seedless melon of your choice)
1/4 cup bottled sangria or sparkling white grape juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions:
Slice the melon of your choice into 4 pieces 1/2 inch thick and refrigerate. Cut fruit into small bite sized pieces. To make the salsa combine fruit pieces in a bowl with sangria or white grape juice. Toss together, cover and refrigerate for 2 to 5 hours. When ready to serve, sprinkle lemon juice over melon slices and top with salsa.

5 Reasons to Use a Sunless Tanner

2007-06-26T03:48:00.000-07:00

It is well-known that over-exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause skin cancer. It is also a known fact that tanning beds emit more UV rays than the sun, and are more likely to cause skin cancer, as well. In order to avoid developing skin cancer via sunbathing or tanning beds, here are five reasons sunless tanning is better for you.

1. According to the American Cancer Society, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Ultraviolet rays and tanning beds can all cause skin cancer. In fact, they estimate that five or more sunburns more than doubles your risk of developing skin cancer.

2. According to the Academy of Dermatology, the sun’s rays are more damaging today than in recent years. One doctor related that most people associate bronzed skin with good health. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

3. Sunless tanning can be done in the privacy of your own home. It is important to test the product first. The last thing you want to do is to reveal an “orange” tan. Apply the sunless tanning lotion you’re going to use to a small area on your skin and wait 24 hours to see how it works.

4. Sunless tanners are perfectly safe. Before applying the tanner, use exfoliates to remove dead skin. Experts say it will remove any scaly patches and make the application of the tanning lotion more effective.

5. Sunless tanning can be accomplished over a period of time, no matter what time of year. Don’t go full out for the bronzed look, but a little over time will give you the desired results.

Sunless tanning lotions are in. Whether lotions, gels, foams, creams, sprays, or the many varieties available today, there is no need to risk getting skin cancer anymore.

*Please remember your new bronzed skin is still susceptible to the sun's rays - always use sunscreen whenever outside and exposed to the sun!

11 Tips to Help Keep Your Skin in Shape this Summer

2007-06-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

While we all have different complexions, summer is a time when we have to be extra careful when exposing our skin to the sun.

Here are tips to keep your skin in shape this summer:

Use Sunscreen - This is the most effective way in which to shield your skin from the sun’s rays. Use SPF30 sun block and apply it every 20 minutes.
Seek out Shade - Whether at the beach or sunbathing in your backyard pool, try to stay out of the sun when the heat is most intense, between the hours of 10 am to 4 pm.
Take Cover - Wear brimmed hats and light colored clothing to cover your arms and legs.
Use Mild Soaps - Do not use strong abrasives on your skin. Cleanse your skin with warm water and mild soap.
Use Natural Products - For sensitive skin, try not to use harsh products whose chemicals can cause irritation to your skin.
Use a Moisturizer - You can use baby oil which will not only protect your skin put prevent it from becoming too dry.
Sunscreen the Sensitive Parts - When sunbathing, use the sunscreen particularly on the most sensitive parts of your body such as shoulders, back of your legs, and neck as these areas are most vulnerable.
Protect Your Eyes - Wear sunglasses when exposed to the sun to help protect your eyes.
Be Gentle When Removing Makeup - Gently remove makeup with cotton balls so as to not to irritate the area around your eyes.
Be Gentle When Drying - When bathing or showering, it is important not to completely rid your body of its essential oils. Therefore, don’t vigorously dry your body with a towel, but simply pat it dry and add moisturizer afterwards.
Beware Razor Burns - Before you prepare to shave your legs and underarms, use any of the shaving creams or lotion products available. The last thing you need is to expose your legs to the sun if they have razor burns.

If you follow these tips to keep your skin in shape this summer, you will no doubt avoid any further damage to your skin and be able to enjoy the summer activities you have planned.

Natural Sunburn Relief

2007-06-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

While there are many over the counter topical creams and anti-inflammatory medications you can use to alleviate the pain and soreness associated with sunburn, there are natural sunburn relief products which can relieve the discomfort as well.

Try some of these to get that relief you need:

Aloe Vera, which is used in the treatment of burn victims, is quite effective in the treatment of sunburn. Simply apply a thin layer to the affected area and repeat the application every hour. Aloe Vera plants are beautiful and easy to use, just break off a part of one of the leaves and use the soothing ointment inside to rub on your sunburn.
Herbal teas can offer a respite from the discomfort of sunburn as well. Non-herbal black tea is one of them. Steep six bags in four cups of hot water, cool, and apply it to the affected area with a cotton cloth. In fact, tea bags have long been known to alleviate puffiness and burns to the eyes as well. Place a cooled teabag on each closed eyelid, lie down, and let the tea do its work.
Try an herbal bath using either chamomile or lavender essential oils. This is another effective means by which you can relieve severe sunburn symptoms. You may want to try tea tree oil, which helps heal skin burns and other skin irritations, and products rich with it can be helpful as well.
Apply cold compresses by using cool tap water on a cotton towel and apply it to the affected areas. A cool bath is also recommended. Do not shower as the pulsating water on your sunburned skin will cause further pain.
An oatmeal bath will not only relieve the itchiness accompanying dried sunburned skin, but sooth and alleviate the burn as well. There is powdered oatmeal available with which you can add to a tub of cool bathwater.

While some people look forward to getting a great summer tan, bathing in the sun too long can have caustic affects. Use SPF 15 or higher sun block, depending on your skin tone, to prevent severe burning. Apply it before you go out into the sun and every 20 minutes thereafter.

The rule of thumb when sunbathing is: 20 minutes in the sun and 20 minutes out of the sun. In this way, you can acquire a tan comfortably and safely.

Banana Boat Sport Sunblock

2007-06-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

A product which has been receiving rave reviews in the sunblock arena is Banana Sport UVA & UVB Sunblock. This product provides a broad spectrum of UVA and UVB protection. It is not only hypoallergenic, but non-greasy, and fragrance free.

For those with sensitive skin, Banana Boat Sport has the product for you. While this lotion has an SPF of 15, Banana Boat Sport comes in a variety of SPF levels ranging from 8 to 50. In fact, the makers of this product recommend that if you are light or fair, you should use SPF 50 if you intend to stay in the sun for five hours or more. It should be applied 15 minutes before sun exposure. It is waterproof and sweatproof, but should be reapplied after swimming or when drying off with a towel.

Banana Boat Sport UVA & UVB Sunblock comes in a handy tube, and has been recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation as a safe and effective sun screen.

As with most sunblocks, using the proper SPF level and applying it generously will protect you from the sun’s rays. In addition, wearing sun brimmed hats, sunglasses, and light clothing are additional safeguards to protect you from the sun.

Those who have used Banana Boat Sport comment on the fact that is feels more like a moisturizer than anything else. It has a light, fluffy body to it, and it not at all oily. Very light-scented, it washes off easily and does not have to be reapplied at all because it lasts so long.
In fact, some have gone so far as to say Banana Boat Sport is the most comfortable to wear waterproof sunblock they have found. Finally, the general consensus is that this sunblock does exactly what is says it does.

As we all know, with summer approaching, protecting the skin against cancer and premature aging is of utmost importance. Therefore, if you want a product that is not only effective but gives you the protection you need, try Banana Sport Boat UVA & UVB Sunblock.

Where can you buy it? Amazon.com

Turkey and Avocado Salad with Toasted Pine Nuts

2007-06-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
2 cups of cooked and sliced turkey (you can use Rotisserie deli turkey)
1 large avocado sliced
2 red apples, cored and sliced
Bunch of mixed salad leaves

Dressing:
3 tablespoons apple juice
3 tablespoons low-fat natural yogurt
1 teaspoon clear honey
1 teaspoon mustard
2 oz of toasted pine nuts for garnish

Directions:
Place all the salad items in a large bowl and gently toss together. In a separate bowl mix all the dressing ingredients together except the pine nuts. Pour dressing over the salad and top with toasted pine nuts. To toast the pine nuts, place a little olive oil or non stick spray in a non stick frying pan and toast the pine nuts for approximately 2 minutes.

The Benefits of Fish Oil to Your Body

2007-06-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

In the past decade, researchers have been studying fish consumption and the benefits it brings to the body. Fish and fish oils have been shown to decrease the negative effects of cardiovascular disease (CVD) on the human body. The way this has been done is through the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. What are omega-3 fatty acids? You'll learn that and more on how they help to treat patients with CVD and those without who may be at risk later in life.

CVD is a big problem in this country. With obesity and diabetes amongst the population at staggering highs, it has become more prevalent. Clogged arteries are leading to strokes and death. Plaque riddled coronary arteries are leading to thromboses and heart attacks. Controlling the diet is the major way to reduce a person’s risk for these types of health problems.

Omega-3 fatty acids are found naturally in fish, their oils, and plants sources, such as flaxseed, canola, soybeans, and the oils of each. There are three types of omega-3 fatty acids: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and alpha linolenic acid (LNA). The first two mentioned have the most benefit on the heart and its health. The last omega-3 fatty acid is found mainly in plant sources. The first two are found in fish that are have a high fat content, but low saturated fat content. This is important. There are good fats and bad fats. Foods that contain fully saturated fats are worse than those fats are mono- or poly-unsaturated. These fish include: mackerel, salmon, trout, and tuna.

The recommended dose of omega-3 fatty acids is at least two to three days a week from natural sources such as those I’ve already named. Consuming fish and plant sources on a regular basis seems to reduce the risk of that person developing the precursors to CVD and its related conditions. Change in diet alone is enough if you have never been diagnosed with any heart related abnormalities.

For those individuals with a history of CVD, fish consumption is also recommended. Depending on how advanced their condition, supplements of DHA and EPA may be prescribed by the doctor. As with any supplements, make sure that you get the doctor’s okay before taking them, because they could do more harm than good if too much is used.

What the research shows to be true is the following:

The incidence of blood clots causing sudden heart attacks is decreased
Blood pressure lowers
Arterial plaque growth is retarded
The level of triglycerides in the blood is lowered
Decreased level of cardiac arrhythmias

More research still needs to be done to investigate any other properties of omega-3 fatty acids on the body. But, for now, we know that fish and fish oil keep the heart pumping fine.

Blueberries - What are the Health Benefits?

2007-06-08T04:25:00.000-07:00

Forget about the old saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away." Recent studies now confirm that blueberries have far more beneficial effects than apples.

Here are some of the great health benefits of blueberries:

Have you become forgetful? You know, misplaced the car keys or can’t remember someone’s name. Well the good news is that blueberries, consumed on a daily basis in a bowl of cereal, for example, can improve memory.
Blueberries ranked the highest in antioxidant properties, and have been proven to aid in the anti-aging process. Moreover, blueberries are known to restrict the harmful effects that free radicals can cause. Not all free radicals are considered harmful, but some can cause damage to our cells, as well as cause various types of cancer. The older we become, the more difficult it is to safeguard against these free radicals. By consuming blueberries, we have a better chance of minimizing the damage.
Blueberries have also shown to lower cholesterol, which is a major problem among many people today.
Research has proven that a specific component in blueberries reduces the chances of urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from lining the walls of the urinary tract.
Blueberries have effective anti-inflammatory, anti-blood clotting, and antibacterial effects. In fact, they have been used in cases of diarrhea and food poisoning.
Studies have also shown that blueberries can improve eyesight, and are thought to help in reducing eye fatigue.
Researchers feel there is a great chance that blueberries can help in the fight against obesity and heart disease. But the most exciting news is that it may be linked in the fight against cancer.

A half cup of blueberries a day can make all the difference in fighting off potential health problems. The next time you go to your supermarket, pick up a pound of fresh blueberries or a bag of frozen blueberries. You will see remarkable results after a few weeks.

3 Herbal Teas and Their Benefits to Your Health

2007-06-07T10:01:00.000-07:00

While herbal remedies have been used in some cultures for centuries, other societies have just begun to accept their benefits. Even now, some people still rely on modern medicine for problems that can be treated effectively with an herbal remedy because they are leery about them. A great way to get the benefits of herbs without taking supplements is to brew them into a tea. You then get the benefits along with a great tasting drink. Here are three great herbal teas and what they can do to help you.

Valerian Tea
Valerian has been used for centuries to help with a whole host of medical problems. Most recently it has been used to calm nerves and even soothe severe anxiety and restlessness. It is a great tea to enjoy at the end of the day when you want to unwind and relax. Because it acts as a sedative, Valerian is often used to cure insomnia and get a restful night’s sleep. It is commonly used to help with cramps and digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome.
You should also be wary of continued use because it can become addictive and produce withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it.

When making Valerian tea, do not use boiling water. You can decrease its potency; just use hot water.

Echinacea
Want to be able to strengthen your immune system and better fight off viruses like that flu? Or course you do. That’s why you should try to drink Echinacea tea regularly. This tea stimulates your t cells and helps boost interferon production; both essential parts of immune functioning
A few people may be allergic to Echinacea, so if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction or an asthma attack, see a doctor immediately.

Hawthorn

If you’re looking for a natural, effective way to help improve your heart function and circulation, you should try hawthorn tea. This herb has been known to help the heart, relieve blood pressure problems, lower cholesterol, and improve circulation. It’s also an antioxidant which means it helps prevent cancer and improves overall health.

Before drinking herbal teas, taking herbal supplements, or taking any medications, you should talk to your doctor. Herbs can have side effects, complications, and drug interactions; just like prescription meds. You doctor will be able to tell you if it’s safe for you to use certain herbs or not.

If used properly, herbal teas can be a great way to naturally improve your health and help you live a happier life. If you benefit from these teas, there are many other options that you can try to maintain good health.

Cranberry Pecan Couscous Salad in Lemon

2007-06-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

Tangy, crimson-colored dried cranberries and toasted pecans are a dynamic combination in this special salad. If you plan to make it more than 2 hours in advance, hold back on adding the cucumbers until serving time so they will retain their special crunch.

Ingredients:
1 cup shelled pecans
1 1/2 cups couscous
1 cup dried cranberries
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
2 cups boiling water
1 cup thawed frozen peas
3 scallions, very thinly sliced
2 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and diced
1/4 cup shredded fresh basil

Lemon Dressing Ingredients:
Zest of 1 lemon
1/3 cup lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 /2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/3 cup olive oil

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Toast pecans in a shallow pan until fragrant, approximately 5-7 minutes. Set aside. Place the couscous, cranberries, and turmeric in a large bowl. Pour in the boiling water, stir, then cover the bowl with a large plate or foil. Let sit for 10 minutes. Remove cover and fluff the couscous with a fork. Cover again and let sit 5 more minutes. Stir in the pecans, peas, scallions, cucumbers, and basil.

Combine dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously. Pour over the couscous mixture and stir. Let the salad sit at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend. If longer than 1 hour, cover and chill, but then bring the salad to room temperature before serving.

The Sommercizing Diet Plan

2007-06-04T10:09:00.000-07:00

The Sommersizing Diet was founded by Suzanne Somers and The Sommersizing books have made the best seller lists.

The diet is based around eating the right type of carbohydrates and good fats and also food combining. The believe is that if you eat low glycemic index carbohydrates your blood sugars and insulin levels will remain stable allowing your body to burn more fat.

You are also encouraged to food combine, which involves eating meat, full fat dairy products and vegetables together without carbohydrates or fruit. You can also eat whole grain carbohydrates alone with vegetables but no meat or dairy. Fruit should always be consumed on its own preferably on an empty stomach.

There are also a list of foods you should completely avoid. There are specific guidelines in The Suzanne Somers Diet Book which explains in full detail when to eat fruit during the day, how to effectively combine your meals and many recipes as well.

This diet takes a little getting used to but unlike the Atkins diet or other low carb diets you are allowed to eat the right type of carbohydrates from day one and throughout the diet as long as you eat them in the right combinations in relation to other foods.

The diet consist of two stages:

Sommersizing Stage One: This is the stricter phase of the diet where you must fully food combine and avoid all sugar, you are allowed to use the Sommersizing sweetener. You must also avoid all caffeine and alcohol.
Sommersizing Stage Two: This is the least restrictive and final phase of the diet. You start this phase once you reach your goal weight and stay on it for life. During this phase you are allowed to eat chocolate and drink red wine in moderation. You can also create slight imbalances during food combining, such as adding pine nuts to your whole wheat pasta.

Insomnia and Depression - a Common Link

2007-06-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

Many people already know that depression can be a major cause of insomnia. When you’re so worried about life, it’s hard to clear your mind and get a good night’s sleep. But did you know that lack of sleep may lead to depression? Here is some information to help you understand the link between these two pressing problems.

When you think of a depressed person, you may picture them lying in bed all day, but even though they may not want to leave their bedroom, that doesn’t mean they’re sleeping. While only 15% of clinically depressed people get more sleep than when they’re feeling fine, more than 80% of them don’t get enough sleep. In fact, one of the best indicators of depression is someone who wakes up in the middle of the night and can’t get back to sleep. While they tend to get about 6 hours of sleep a night, it’s still enough of a loss to become a problem.

So, does this mean you treat the depression and the sleep disorder goes away? Probably not. Recent studies have shown that the sleep disorder is what starts the cycle, not the depression. Many patients with clinical depression had trouble sleeping for up to five weeks before experiencing depression symptoms. If the person is treated for the sleep disorder while they are still in a normal emotional state, many of them don’t become depressed. However, as mentioned earlier, depression feeds the sleep disorder as well; once a person becomes depressed, their sleep disorder tends to worsen. Current research is pointing towards the fact that while insomnia may not cause depression, treating insomnia may result in fewer depressive episodes for someone diagnosed with clinical depression.

Research has shown that depression not only affects how much sleep a person gets, it also determines what kind of sleep they have. Someone with depression has a short and sometimes barely existent early stage of sleep. Instead of going through the normal sleep cycles, the brain skips forward to REM sleep; the type of sleep that lets us deal with our emotions and convert memories. Their brain also tends to stay in this stage longer than non depressed people. Besides skipping important and vital stages of sleep, depressed people may get different effects from REM sleep than non depressed people. They tend to convert memories incorrectly and put them in a more negative light. Researchers also think that depressed people and their families have this type of REM sleep even if they are not depressed.

It should be noted that these studies have been done on people with unipolar depression. These are people who get depressed, but never enter a manic phase. For those with manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder, inability to sleep is completely different than in unipolar patients. It is actually normally associated with the manic phase of the disorder.

While the exact relationship between sleep and depression hasn’t been completely determined, it is obvious that there is a definite link between the two conditions. What is known is that if you are prone to depression and are experiencing insomnia, you should seek treatment immediately to avoid having a depressive episode.

Natural Jewelry Cleaners - Complete Kit

2007-06-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

The truth is, at some point or another, our jewelry needs a good cleaning. Well here is the kit that will do it! Non-toxic Jewelry Cleaner will clean all fine and fashion jewelry gemstones, and comes with a unique jewelry polish to remove tarnish from gold, platinum, titanium and sterling silver jewelry. This product increases the luster of pearls; removes tarnish from platinum, gold, titanium and sterling silver jewelry; restores original finish to all precious jewelry metals; restores original finish to Tiffany Sterling Silver Link chains; and is safe for all jewelry gemstones and jewelry metals.

In addition, you can also purchase the GemCare Natural Jewelry Cleaners - Deluxe Care Kit, which includes GemCare's Natural Diamond & Pearls Jewelry Cleaner to clean all precious and semiprecious gemstones, including pearl jewelry and fine diamond jewelry. It comes with a unique jewelry tarnish remover polish to clean gold, platinum, titanium and sterling silver jewelry metals. To really clean any jewelry metal, you need to remove or clean off the dull tarnish that has covered up the original buffed finish.

This product also comes ammonia and alcohol free; cleans platinum diamond jewelry; gold diamond jewelry; cleans and sparkles Swarovsky crystal bead jewelry; and cleans and removes tarnish from gold, titanium and platinum precious jewelry metals.

Here are what customers had to say about this product: “This is a great jewelry cleaner and I have tried them all! It cleans brilliantly without leaving a film. So if you are looking for something that really works this is it.”

Another reviewer wrote: “I found this product at a wedding show a few years ago. This product is certainly what you will need to make your gold products look new. I highly recommend this for all who want their jewelry to continue to look new and beautiful.”

Finally, this user wrote: “I have been looking for a good jewelry cleaner for a long time. My silver necklaces have been sitting in my jewelry box for years because I couldn’t find a product that worked. I have spent a lot of money buying new silver chains and am tired of it. I have so many pins and rings that were given to me as gifts. I want to wear them. Finally, I found this natural jewelry cleaner not only works like a charm, but has no ammonia or other chemicals in it. I can’t say enough about this product. I can finally wear my jewelry again.”

Having jewelry cleaner which actually does the job, and is natural to boot, is a necessity for those who need to renew their precious gemstones. Check out this product and test it out to determine if what these consumers say is true.

Where can you buy it? Amazon.com

Learning to Say "No" - Make it Your Secret Weapon

2007-05-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

Are you suffering from SuperMom burnout? Do you sometimes struggle just to make it through each day? Moms everywhere are breaking down and giving out because they are too chicken to say, “No.” “No” may be a tiny, two-letter word, but it is definitely your secret weapon. And you can say it.

I am dedicating this list of ways you can say "no" (and not feel guilty about it) to my good friend Robyn at One Tough Momma - she admittedly has a LITTLE problem. Take these to heart, Robyn!

"Sorry, I’m taking a break." The number one reason why you should say, “no” occasionally is simply that you deserve a break. You are chef, chauffeur, dish washer, and more. You job never ends on any given day of the week. You deserve a break.
"My schedule is full." We tend to jam-pack our schedule full of activities, leaving time for nothing. Cut back on your kids activities (the rule in our household is one activity per season). Start a car pool and share driving responsibilities. Do whatever you can to free up some time in your schedule.
"I'm really slammed right this second, could I call you back tonight after the kids are in bed?" You’re headed out the door, rushing to the next appointment when the telephone rings. What do you do? Do you come to a screeching halt and answer the phone? Let’s say you do, and it’s a family member, calling to dump their latest woes on you. Do you stand, tapping your foot impatiently while you roll your eyes and listen to the sob story? This is a typical scene for many moms. Unless it is a DIRE emergency, they should understand that you have a busy life too and you will be much better equipped to help them later on after your immediately stress is gone.
"I have another commitment that day." Say it and mean it. Regularly schedule in time with your family or time alone (and physically write it down in your planner) and if someone ask for your help during that time look in your planner and tell them you have another commitment.

Instead of rushing to be everything to everyone, stop for a moment. Ask yourself if you truly have time for whatever comes up. If not, say no by walking away, turning off the ringer on the phone, or not answering the knock at your door. Always remember that you are a mom—not a super hero. When you have to say no, people will understand; if they don’t at first, they will get used to it eventually.

Find out how to de-stress your life and regain YOU with Journey to Joy!

Good For Your Heart Turkey Reubens

2007-05-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1/4 cup nonfat Thousand Island salad dressing
8 slices dark rye or pumpernickel bread
8 ounces thinly sliced low-fat, low-sodium cooked turkey or chicken
1/2 cup sauerkraut, rinsed and well drained
4 slices low-fat Swiss cheese (1 1/2 ounces)
Vegetable oil spray

Directions:
Spread salad dressing on 4 slices of bread. Top remaining 4 slices with meat of choice, sauerkraut and cheese. Top with dressing spread bread slices, dressing side down. Spray skillet with vegetable oil. Cook over medium heat until toasted and cheese melts, turning once. Repeat with remaining sandwiches.

5 Great Tips for Controlling Heartburn

2007-05-29T09:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, SuperMoms get hearburn too! What with all of the running kids here, there and everywhere; not eating properly and definitely not getting enough sleep. All of these can be contributing factors to ongoing heartburn.

Here are 5 tips to help you keep it under control:

Know your triggers. Those who experience heartburn after certain activities can reasonably assume what is causing their episodes. Certain foods can bring on a bout of acid reflux. Spicy or fatty foods can trigger an attack. Fats digest slower in the stomach. Chocolate can also cause heartburn in certain people. If these or other foods such as fruits and juices or tomatoes and tomato products are suspected of causing your heartburn, avoid them.
Don’t eat late. Going to bed right after eating is a disaster waiting to happen. The acid needed to break down the food is getting revved up. If you lay down, the contents of the stomach shift causing pressure on the sphincter (valve opening) between the stomach and the esophagus. Acid escapes and travels backwards up the esophagus and back into the mouth.
Take a pill. Some people are addicted to their heartburn triggers. If you must have your morning coffee or your weekly dose of Mexican food, head off the heartburn before it starts. Several over-the-counter medications are designed to reduce stomach acid before an episode occurs. Try Pepcid AC® or Zantac®. These products can be taken forty-five minutes to an hour before a meal.
Lose weight. If you’ve never experienced heartburn before, but recently it has become a common occurrence, check the scale. If you are overweight, this could be the problem. For men in particular, excess weight is held around the abdominal area. This extra weight puts more pressure on the sphincter causing acid reflux.
De-stress. Stress can lead to weight gain, smoking, drinking, and other behaviors that trigger heartburn. If increased pressures at home or work are leaving you frazzled, confide in a friend or professional counselor. A listening ear now can avoid heartburn later.

If you know anyone experiencing heartburn, pass this information along. A little knowledge goes a long way in creating a healthier lifestyle. Help someone else alleviate their heartburn today.

Treating Your Skin...Naturally

2007-05-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

There are thousands of products and treatments available to help improve the quality of your skin, but only a small percentage of these are natural. Most beauty products contain harsh, damaging chemicals. Treatments, like chemical peels and botox, can be scary. On top of it all, we really have no idea what most of these treatments and chemicals will do to our skin 20 years down the road. If you want to have great looking skin without dangerous chemicals or procedures, there is a way.

Here are some great tips to keep your skin looking fabulous the natural way:

Drink more water. All cells need water to function properly. If your skin cells aren’t properly hydrated, waste products build up in your cells and keep them from working right and looking their best. Also, if you don’t drink enough water, your cells will retain as much as they can and you’ll end up looking puffy and bloated.
Change your diet. You’ve probably heard the phrase “you are what you eat” a lot. If you think about it, this old saying is 100 percent true. Your body is made up of what you put into it. If you want it to work properly and look its best, you need to feed yourself the nutrients it needs and avoid foods that may damage it. For beautiful skin, you should try to get more fiber and “good fats” in your diet and avoid foods with a lot of sugar.
Improve your circulation. To function properly, our cells need to get plenty of oxygen. If you spend your days sitting at a desk or remaining mostly immobile, your circulation probably isn’t as good as it could be. Increase your circulation by getting more exercise, stretching, or getting regular massages (they don’t need to be professional). You can also use a brush to exfoliate your skin which improves circulation while removing old, dead cells. Not only will this give your skin a better overall look, it can also reduce the appearance of unsightly cellulite.
Avoid the sun. A little sun is good for you. It provides vitamin D and can help give you a sunny disposition, but too much sun can do terrible damage. Try to use hats, clothes, or sun block to protect yourself from damaging UV rays.
Use certified natural skin products. Traditional beauty products contain all sorts of unnatural chemicals. Most are there as preservatives, or to give the product a certain scent, color or texture. These chemicals not only have no value to your skin, some may cause cancer and other dangerous problems. That’s why it’s beneficial to use natural products if you want to look your best and stay healthy. Just be sure to check labels, many products will claim they’re natural or organic and only contain one natural or organic ingredient. Be wary of ingredients you can’t pronounce and look for certification seals to be sure you’re getting what you pay for. Not only will these help normal skin, they’re also less likely to irritate sensitive skin.

With a little time, patience, and work, you can have fabulous looking skin in no time.

Tangy Watermelon Juice

2007-05-27T08:13:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
¼ of a small sized watermelon
Juice of one lemon

Tip: Always use organic vegetables and fruit when juicing. Non-organic vegetables contain large amounts of pesticides and other chemicals which are harmful to your body.

Juice according to juicer instructions and enjoy!

Fruit & Veggie Facts:

Lemons are great for helping the body absorb iron. Also a good source of Vitamin C.
Watermelon has been shown to help reduce the inflammation that may contribute to asthma, diabetes and arthritis.

Green Tea Extract

2007-05-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

Green tea has been traced as far back as over 4000 years ago in China. The medicinal properties of tea have been given serious scientific support. Studies have shown that drinking four cups of green tea a day can reduce the risk of developing stomach and lung cancer as well as heart disease. Green tea contains the cancer-fighting flavonoid ECGC, which is unique in that it seems to fight cancer at all stages, from chemical carcinogens, to suppressing the spread of tumors. Flavonoids are most commonly known for their antioxidant activity. The chemical components in green tea are 100 times more powerful an antioxidant as Vitamin C, and 25 times more powerful than Vitamin E.

Did you know that green tea can even help prevent tooth decay? Just as its bacteria-destroying abilities can help prevent food poisoning, it can also kill the bacteria, which causes dental plaque. Green tea antioxidants have been shown to have a direct effect on lowering cholesterol levels as well. Green tea also causes carbohydrates to be released slowly, preventing sharp increases in blood-insulin levels. This promotes the burning of fat. Many scientists believe there is a connection between all of the components of green tea; and these combined properties account for its health-enhancing properties. Unfermented green tea leaves, by the way, are the most natural way to gain these benefits.

Green tea extract can be purchased in any health food store, supermarket or pharmacy. It is available in several forms including: tablets, powder, capsules, liquid, and as a tea. Capsule forms are known to contain the most antioxidants. Consumers interested in green tea extract benefits, should look for tea products that are the freshest possible, as well as sealed in an airtight container, as green tea does not have a long shelf life.

Green tea extract contains caffeine, which has been known to contribute to problems sleeping when taken before bedtime, as well as irritability, dizziness, vomiting, headache, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and possible irregular heartbeat in rare cases.

Tips on Reducing Tummy Bloating

2007-05-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

For many women, abdominal bloating can be painful, uncomfortable, or just annoying. Bloating is when your tummy feels tight or full, and is usually caused by excess gas. Often bloating is caused by overeating, but if you’re exercising portion control and still feeling tight; here are some other causes and how to treat them.

Food Intolerance. If you’re not overeating, but feel bloated shortly after you eat; you may have food intolerance. Unlike food allergies, food intolerances are when your body can’t properly digest a certain kind of food. While the most common of these is lactose intolerance, it isn’t the only one. Observe your eating habits. If a specific food makes you feel bloated, try to avoid it.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). IBS is when you feel bloated on a regular basis. This occurs when your colon doesn’t work properly. Other symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. If you suspect you have IBS, you should check with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment options. If you have this syndrome; it can be controlled by diet, medicines, fiber supplements, or herbal remedies.
Period Time. Many women feel bloated during their period. Most attribute this to water weight gain, but studies have shown that most women don’t actually gain weight during their period. Most women simply feel boated as opposed to actually being bloated. These symptoms can be caused by fluctuating hormones, irritability, and depression. The best cure for this is to eat a good diet and exercise. If you still feel bloated, you can try using natural diuretics to get rid of water weight.
Rare, more serious conditions. If you start to bloat in the abdominal area and it doesn’t go away; don’t just assume you’ve put on weight. Prolonged abdominal bloating can be a symptom of ovarian cancer, liver disease, or tumors in the abdominal cavities. If you exercise and eat right and the bloating just doesn’t go away; see a doctor as soon as possible.

Hopefully these suggestions will lead you down the road to recovery. And as always: if in doubt, talk to your doctor.

Chicken Soup for the Soul

2007-05-24T09:30:00.000-07:00

Many of you may have already read this book when it first came out. It is still one of the top selling books today. Chicken Soup for the Soul is a collection of 101 stories based on the belief that true testimonies of goodness and loving transformations can nourish us to the bone and heal the cynicism in our hearts. Indeed, most every story seeps in deeply. It's hard not to shed a tear of gratitude, feeling thrilled to have been touched and soothed so easily.

Written by Jack Canfield, this is one book you will keep re-reading year after year. Here are what other readers of this wonderful book had to say.

“I liked the book, mainly because it cheers me up. This book not only makes your heart smile, but also your soul smile, with quotes such as: "Don't bug me! Hug me!" and even made the people who are the most crippled smile.”

Highlighting the strength and beauty of the human spirit, this book will take you on a journey wherein you meet people from all walks of life who suffer, yet whose incredible spirituality leads the way to enlightenment.

Check out this book, if you have not already done so, and allow it to envelop your mind, soul and spirit.

Where can I buy it? Amazon.com

7 Reasons Why You Should Drink Water

2007-05-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

We know water is good for us, but with soda, juice, coffee, tea, energy drinks, and other drinks so readily available, it’s hard to make the decision to choose water.

Here are 7 great reasons to drink more water.

Keeps skin looking great. If your skin looks tired and unhealthy, so do you. Staying properly hydrated removes all the toxins that build up in you skin, and helps prevent it from drying out. If you have the opposite problem; puffy bloated skin, lack of water is likely your problem too. When skin doesn’t get water, it retains what it already had, leaving your skin cells full, puffy, and not too attractive. If you want to look beautiful, you should keep yourself hydrated.

It’s cheaper. Sure, if you buy bottled water, it’s about as expensive as soda, juice, and coffee. However, studies have shown that tap water is usually as clean and safe as bottled water, and costs a whole lot less. If you have a problem with the taste of your tap water, buy a filter pitcher or one that attaches to the faucet. It still costs a lot less.

A healthy heart. When you’re properly hydrated, your blood is thinner and easier to pump. This means your heart has to do less work and ultimately lasts longer. Studies have shown that people who drink plenty of water have fewer heart problems.

Toxic build-up. Sure, it sounds like something from a bathroom cleaner commercial, but you have toxins in your cells too. Some of them come from the environment and others you produce yourself. Either way, they’re in your body and you need to get rid of them. Just like you use water to flush your toilet; your body uses water to flush out toxins. Getting rid of this waste helps you function more effectively and feel better.

No sugar added. While fruit juices may contain many nutrients, they also contain a whole lot of sugar. This is especially true for many bottled juices from the grocery store. This sudden burst of sugar triggers your insulin response and makes you tired and sluggish. It also helps to convert that sugar to fats faster. Sugary sodas will produce the same reaction and they usually contain no nutrients at all.

Caffeine is a diuretic. So why water? Why not drink diet soda or coffee all day? These drinks contain caffeine, which actually causes you to lose water throughout the day. You retain some of the water content of the beverages, but not as much as when you drink pure water. You can try decaffeinated beverages, but the best way to use the water you drink is to get it pure and clean, with no chemicals added.

Gives you an energy boost. Think you can’t get through the day without your morning caffeine boost? Well water can give you energy as well. Your body is made up mostly of water. It loses it throughout the day, so you have to replace it for your body to work efficiently; particularly the heart and digestive tract. As mentioned earlier, water helps your body work better by getting rid of excess waste. The more efficiently your whole body is working, the better you’ll feel and the more energy you’ll have. You may even have enough energy to skip that cup of coffee.

So go ahead, skip the vending machine, go to the faucet, and get yourself a nice, refreshing glass of ice water.

Green Olive Spread

2007-05-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
2 cups Spanish green olives
2 Tablespoons capers
7 fresh Spanish marinated anchovy fillets
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon finely chopped parsley
1/2 cup olive oil

Directions:
Combine green olives, capers, anchovy fillets, lemon zest and parsley together in a blender and puree thoroughly. Once puréed, add olive oil and blend until mixed well.

Tip:
Use this spread as a cracker or bread topper or add to dressings to create a unique and tasty flavor.

Benefits of Riding a Bike

2007-05-21T11:36:00.000-07:00

Everybody rode their bike as a kid. It was a means of transportation and just a good way to get from here to there. As we age, we realize that we need some steady form of exercise and bike riding can be just the ticket! Read on to see just how great riding a bike is for your health.

It's Great for the Heart!
Riding a bike is great cardiovascular exercise and increases the health of your heart. Everybody needs a minimum of thirty minutes of aerobic exercise at least three days a week. Purchasing a bike with several speeds will allow you to increase you fitness level as your cardiovascular function improves. Begin by riding at an easy speed over even ground. If a challenge is what you desire, change your terrain.

Bicycling is Kind to the Joints!
Women often experience joint pain especially in the knees as they get older. Osteoporosis causes joint problems to worsen because of the lack of proper calcium levels in the bones. Bike riding offers exercise without pain. The aerobic benefit is comparable to jogging or running without the strain. Make sure that the seat height on your bike is adjusted to allow your legs full range of motion with each revolution. Full range of motion also promotes better circulation to the lower extremities which do the majority of the work in moving the bicycle.

You Get Great Looking Legs!
Bicycling whips those leg muscles into shape. For muscular endurance, stick to a flat terrain, but adjust the speed of the bike as your strength improves. To avoid cramping, stretch thoroughly before and after each bike ride. If you are looking to increase muscle definition, vary your terrain. Off-road biking on dirt trails helps to flex leg muscles as you keep the bicycle under control even on uneven ground. Steep hills are great for working the quadriceps and hamstrings.

The Backside Gets a Little Boost Too!
The gluteus muscles also reap rewards from bike riding. For maximum power, raise your body about an inch off of the seat as you pedal. Squeeze your butt to control the pedaling motion. After a mile or so, those glutes should be on fire.

Increases Your Balance!
Learning to ride a bike is all about staying upright. To do that, you have to find a balance between your body and the bike. Maintaining that balance strengthens the core muscles of the abdominal region. Tightening the core muscles keeps you from falling off of the bike. The lower abdominals pull your legs back towards you body from the bottom of the cycling revolution. The lower back is also kept pain free by a strong balanced core.

Riding a bike is not just for kids. I am a great testament to this because I had not been on a bike for at least 15-20 years. The last bike I had was a 10-speed in high school. My husband just bought me a bike and we have started going out as a family. Man...my legs BURN like you wouldn't believe! Even though there's pain, the benefits are great and I know this too shall pass. This is something that the entire family can do together and have fun at the same time. Get on out there and try it!

Natural Ways to Boost Your Memory

2007-05-17T04:29:00.000-07:00

We would all love to be able to remember things better. Being a SuperMom is exhausting and if you're like me, your kids having taken all of your brain cells and your memory is shot! We could all use a little boost to our memory. The best way to optimize your memory is to eat right and exercise (your brain and your body), but it you find this isn’t helping enough, there are safe, natural foods and supplements that will help give your memory the boost you’re looking for.

Here are some important nutrients and supplements that will help boost your memory along with other great side effects.

Choline. This is the main nutrient required in the production of acetocholine, the most essential chemical in retaining memories. Choline can be found in fish (particularly anchovies), eggs, liver, soy, and various nuts.
DMAE. This is easily absorbed into the brain and also aids in the production of acetylcholine. It can be found in sardines and anchovies, but most people prefer taking a supplement. Be sure to take it in the morning, as it can cause insomnia.
Vitamins. Getting enough of the B vitamins and vitamin C are essential for the production proper brain function. B vitamins have even been shown to raise scores on IQ tests.
Pyroglutamate. This is an essential amino acid that can be used to improve memory, concentration, coordination, and reaction time. It improves reception of neurotransmitters and aids in the production of acetylcholine. It is found in dairy products, fish, fruit, and vegetables.
Phosphatidylserine. This chemical has not only been shown to improve memory, but also to concentration, mood, and resistance to stress. While you can get this nutrient from diet, you’d probably be more comfortable taking a supplement.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids. These “good fats” can be found in fish, including: tuna, salmon, and mackerel. They can also be found in certain nuts and oils. This boosts the amount of acetylcholine and serotonin in the body which improves memory and mood.
Ginko Biloba. This is used to improve circulation, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Ginko improves memory and gives you an energy boost. It has been show to help memory loss from normal aging and Alzheimer’s. Be careful how much you take, it can have side effects due to its blood thinning properties.
Vinpocetine. This supplement is derived from the periwinkle plant and increases circulation. It has been proven to improve decision making and problem solving skills.
Carnitine. This is an essential amino acid that improves memory and brain function and mood; it also has antioxidant properties. Acetyl-L-carnitine is essential in the production of acetylcholine.
Glutamine. Another important amino acid for brain function. Along with the improved brain function, glutamine is an energy booster can help you break your addictions to stimulants. It also helps balance neurotransmitters and blood sugar levels.

Getting one or two of these nutrients can help you feel better and improve memory, but if you want to have optimal functioning and memory, it’s best to get as appropriate amounts of each of these nutrients from diet and supplements if you can.

7 Tips for Controlling Your Blood Pressure

2007-05-12T07:45:00.000-07:00

So, you’ve been to the doctor and they’ve told you that you have high blood pressure, now what? The bad news is that high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. The good news is that most people don’t even need medication to lower their blood pressure; they just need to adopt some simple lifestyle changes.

Here are some steps you can take to get your blood pressure down to a healthy level.

Lose weight. The incidence of hypertension is much higher in overweight and obese individuals. If you have a lot of weight to lose, don’t be discouraged. Even losing a few pounds should cause a drop in your blood pressure. You can use that to keep you motivated to lose more.
Exercise more. Getting regular physical activity can help to lower blood pressure levels. If you don’t work out at all, try walking for half an hour everyday. You can then work your way up to more strenuous activities. Just remember, even a small amount of physical activity can help.
Eat less salt. Instead of pouring salt on as a seasoning, add some spices instead. You’ll probably find a great flavor that’s a lot better for you. You should also start reading labels of prepackaged foods. Many of them have a lot more sodium than you’d imagine. Try replacing high sodium boxed dinners with a low sodium homemade dinner. Not only is it better for you, it also probably tastes better too.
Quit Smoking. Not only does cigarette smoke cause irreparable damage to your lungs, it also raises your blood pressure. Lowering your blood pressure is just one of 1000 reasons you already have to throw out those cigarettes today.
Drink only in moderation. If you drink more than one (women) or two (men) servings of alcohol a day, you may be increasing your blood pressure levels. Try cutting back to just a beer or glass of wine with dinner and you’ll probably see some improvement.
Relax. While it may seem impossible to stop zipping around during the day, having a little bit of time set aside for relaxation can do wonders for your mental and physical health. Why not try yoga or meditation? If you have a bit of extra money, you could get a weekly massage. If none of these appeal to you, you can always just sit quietly and listen to music. As a bonus, if you take some relaxing time before you go to bed, you’ll sleep better and feel more energized in the morning.
Eat more fruits and veggies. Having an ample supply of vitamins and nutrients will help your body function more properly and lower your blood pressure. You can get these nutrients by eating a variety of fruits and vegetables every day.

While making one or two of these changes may help you a little bit, the best method for lowering your blood pressure is to make all these changes. They each make a little difference that adds up to a much healthier lifestyle and a better life.

Smooth Elliptical Exerciser

2007-05-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

If stationary bikes, Nordic Steppers or Bowflex home gyms are not conducive to your exercise needs, perhaps you may want to purchase a Smooth Elliptical Exerciser. What is an elliptical exerciser? Let’s review its merits.

An elliptical exerciser is a machine which enables your ankles, knees and hips to move fluidly in a completely natural motion with no jarring or jerking. It’s pretty much the same as a stationary bike, except there is no seating. With the elliptical exerciser, you receive an intense upper and lower body workout.

Features include:

Electromagnetic Braking System: With electromagnetic braking, gradual resistance is applied to provide fluid, smooth motion with less wear and tear.
Heavy Gauge Oval Steel Frame: Five-inch oval tubing adds style as well as durability and strength.
Nine Challenging Preset Programs: These programs encompass distance, calories, fat burning, and endurance.
Handgrip Pulse Sensors: Conveniently located on the handlebars.
Sixteen Resistance Levels: Forward and reverse motion allow beginners and avid users to benefit.
Roller-less Design: Allows for a smooth and silent operation.
LCD Display: Features course, profile, speed, time, distance, heart rate, calories and resistance level.
Tilt and Go Wheels: For easy mobility.

In addition, the elliptical exerciser supports up to 300 lbs; has minimal assembly; and a lifetime warranty for frame and brake; five years on all parts and electronics; and one year labor. Priced at under $1500.00, the ergonomic and smooth performance of the elliptical exerciser is one in which you will enjoy the fluid feel in both forward and reverse which will alleviate stress and impact on your joints. Because of its fluid motion and lack of impact on joints, elliptical machines are exceptional for those with back, knee, hip or joint problems. This type of weight-bearing exercise is ideal for lower body workouts. However, with the implementation of movable handles for upper body routines, cardiovascular benefits from elliptical use dramatically increase.

The elliptical exerciser encompasses all of the benefits you will need to tone and recondition your upper and lower body. Along with a proper diet regimen, you will derive the benefits associated with an all around exercise program.

Where can you buy it? Amazon.com

The Benefits of a High Fiber Diet

2007-05-10T07:56:00.000-07:00

A diet high in fiber is important for many reasons. Adequate amounts of fiber are essential to good health. It keeps your digestive system working smoothly, helps elimination from the body and is rich in vitamins and nutrients.

An increased amount of fiber can also help you feel fuller longer, which is important if you’re watching your weight.

A study conducted at the Harvard School of Medicine found that men who consumed 12 grams of fiber a day were twice as likely to develop precancerous colon changes as men whose daily fiber intake was 30 grams or higher. Scientist are not exactly sure why fiber can help reduce the risks of colon cancer but it is thought that insoluble fiber adds bulk to stools, which helps speed their transit through the intestines, leaving less time for carcinogenic changes.

Other studies have shown that adequate levels of fiber can also help against breast cancer, heart disease, digestive disorders, diabetes and obesity. If you suffer from constipation, increasing your fiber content should help. It also helps to drink adequate amounts of water daily to help the fiber through your system.

An easy way to start the day with an adequate amount of fiber is to have a fiber-rich breakfast cereal and some fruit. Vegetables and fruits are also high in fiber and also many other important nutrients.

Most people tend to eat breads and cereals which are very low in fiber. Even some brown bread varieties only have a small amount so it’s best to check labels and make sure you’re getting a natural whole grain product with sufficient fiber.

Now that you know all the benefits of adding fiber to your diet, here are some quick tips to help you increase your fiber intake:

Eat vegetables with every meal.
Switch from processed carbohydrates such as white bread and pasta to whole grains (these are higher in fiber and nutrients).
Add beans to casseroles, chili or many other foods. Beans are an especially good source of fiber.
Snack on fruit with it’s skin on. Fruits like berries are particularly high in fiber and apples and pears should be eaten with the peel on.
Eat dried fruits such as prunes, figs, and apricots. These are easy to sprinkle on cereal or add to homemade muffins.

Easy Low-Fat Brownies

2007-05-09T07:26:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 4oz jar of prune-flavored baby food
3 egg whites
½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
¼ cup whole wheat flour
¼ cup white flour

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350F. Spray a non-stick brownie pan with a little cooking spray. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, taking care not to over bake. Remove to wire rack to cool and serve.

Tips on Choosing the Right Calcium Supplement

2007-05-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

You’ve probably heard how important calcium is for your bones. What you may not know is that calcium plays a role in producing a regular heart beat, conducting nerve impulses, stimulating hormone secretions, and clotting blood. We all know we need a lot of calcium to maintain good health, but chances are you’re not getting enough; particularly if you are a woman.

While the best option for getting calcium is through a healthy balanced diet including dairy products and green vegetables; you can also take a calcium supplement if you don’t think you’re getting enough. You may think calcium is calcium, but it’s very important to the supplement that best suits your needs.

The first choice you need to make when in comes to calcium supplements is what compound you want to take. Calcium is not found by itself in foods; it’s bonded to other molecules. Different compounds are just calcium being bonded with different molecules. If you don’t want to take a lot of pills, calcium carbonate and calcium phosphate have very high calcium concentrations; however, calcium phosphate may not be absorbed into your system as well. Calcium citrate is the easiest compound to absorb; however, the calcium is not as concentrated. If you don’t mind taking more pills, calcium citrate is recommended for people who don’t produce a lot of stomach acid. No matter what compound you choose, be sure to check the label to make sure you’ll be getting enough elemental calcium (calcium by itself) to suit your needs.

Another consideration when buying a calcium supplement is the brand. Not all brand names are created equal, so here are some tips to help you choose wisely.

Don’t get supplements containing natural ingredients that haven’t been purified. They may contain dangerous metals that could make you sick. The worst offenders that you should watch out for are oyster shells, dolomite, and bonemeal.
You probably don’t need a combination vitamin for calcium. If you don’t get outside much, you may consider a vitamin D combination supplement (we get it naturally from sunlight), but other minerals can be obtained from diet and a daily multivitamin.
If a supplement makes you gassy or bloated, switch to a different brand. If you have this problem with many brands, consider starting at a lower dosage and working your way up.
Choose supplements that have the USP seal on them. This will help ensure purity of the product.
If taking calcium pills, drop one into a warm glass of water and let it sit for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the pill has not completely dissolved within the 30 minute time period, it is probably not being completely absorbed by your body and you should find another brand.

Finding the right supplement for you may take a little work, but with a little patience and a little “try it a see” work; you’ll eventually find the perfect supplement to keep your body healthy and strong.

Get Ripped! with Jari Love: Slim and Lean

2007-05-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

Considered a fantastic workout DVD, Get Ripped! With Jari Love: Slim and Lean is suited for people of all fitness levels. This DVD comprises squats; lunges; chest presses; pushups; curls; and a multitude of exercises designed to tone and work on all muscle groups.

While some users found this DVD to be more advanced, most found that by using low weights they could still keep up with the pace. Users found exercise DVD increased their energy levels; incorporated a full body workout using weight training; and found the mix of exercises targeted all of the right areas.

If you have any knee problems, you may want to buy Jari Love’s first DVD entitled, “Get Ripped.” This 55 minute program is designed to increase muscle definition and get rid of body fat in three to four weeks. The exercises encompass resistance and cardio vascular workouts as well as increasing your metabolic rate. Touted by doctors as one of the best calorie burning exercises available, this DVD produces the most effective weight loss results to date.
Some of the comments made about this DVD include: “This is an endurance style weight workout - meaning that your weights are kept fairly light and you'll be doing a lot of repetitions.”

Another woman commented, “Jari gives great directions and information about the exercises. She makes you think about your form and breathing which is really important. I've done many videos where breathing and form are hardly mentioned. I absolutely enjoy this workout! There is a piece on Nutrition. Nutrition is just as important as exercise.”

“These exercises are 100% no-nonsense, consisting of high repetitions of classic, tried-and-true exercises like forward and plie squats, lunges, bicep curls, dead-lifts, overhead presses, lying inner & outer leg lifts, and minimal abdominal work. Jari's queing and instruction is right on the mark, and she gives clear explanation and attention to form.”

Where can you buy it? Amazon.com

The Benefits of Massage

2007-05-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

Stressed out? Need a good way to relax and feel better about life? Why not get a massage? Getting regular massages helps relieve the physical and mental stress from your body, leaving you ready to take on new challenges.

Here are six top benefits of massage:

Improves Immune System Functioning - Studies have shown that the number of white cells in your blood increases after a massage. These are the cells that help the body fight diseases. With regular massage, you can have a stronger immune system and get sick less often.
Improves Circulation - By relaxing your muscles, blood is able to flow more freely through your veins. Improved circulation gives you a boost of energy for the rest of your day. Plus, increased circulation in the skin can even reduce the appearance of cellulite if done on a regular basis.
Reduces Pain - When muscles are tight and tense all day long, they eventually become sore. By relaxing the muscles with a massage, you can ease the pain caused by sore, stiff muscles. Plus, increased circulation further helps relieve pain from the area that is rubbed, and can help relieve tension headaches.
Decreases Stress and Anxiety - Stress is one of the most prevalent, but preventable causes of health problems in modern society. De-stressing is not only a great way to feel better; it also helps you live longer. If you’ve ever had a massage, you already know how relaxed it makes you feel. With relaxed muscles, decreased pain, improved circulation, your body lets go of all the daily stress you’ve been holding on to.
Decreases Blood Pressure - There was a study conducted that showed that a simple, short touch can immediately cause a drop in blood pressure. Combine this with the improved circulation, relaxed muscles, and decreased anxiety and you get a great way to keep your blood pressure low. You should be careful if you have low pressure to begin with; make sure to get up slowly and take it easy after a massage.
Improves Mood - Massage has been shown to make you feel better due to many of the reasons listed above. It is so good at improving mood, it has been used for treating depression in women who had recently lost a child. If massage can help with their depression, it can certainly lift a bad mood.

So, think a massage might help you but just don’t think you can afford it? Massage schools are a great resource for a quality massage at an incredibly low price. Check your local yellow pages for a massage school near you.

So what are you waiting for? Go out and make an appointment for a massage today. You’ll be feeling great in no time!

When the SuperMoms Get Old...

2007-05-03T07:27:00.001-07:00

This is hilarious! I just had to share it with you.

3 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Your Next Set of Bedsheets

2007-05-02T04:13:00.000-07:00

Pop Quiz:

Should you buy 150 count or 800 count sheets?
Is Pima cotton better than muslin?
What is the definition of Sateen?

How’d you do? Not very well? That’s okay – you will know the answers to those questions and more by the time you finish reading this article.

There are 3 main aspects of linens that make up the fibers you sleep on for 1/3 of your life:

Thread Count
Weave
Types of Cotton

1. Thread Count
Definition: the number of threads, both vertical and horizontal in a one-inch square of fabric.

Thread counts range anywhere from 80 to 1000 or even more. The thread count can be affected by the ply and thickness of the yarn used to produce the fabric.

Ply is determined by how many threads are wrapped together into a single thread. Single-ply is a thread used upon itself. Double-ply indicates the yarns are twisted together and THEN woven.

The finer threads will give a higher thread count because more threads can fit in a 1-inch space. This will give the fabric a softer feel, but will also yield a less-durable fabric.

So, what is a good thread count to purchase? Experts say:

Greater than 100 is desirable
Greater than 180 is ideal
Greater than 400-500 is considered a farce due to the manufacturer’s using double-ply fabrics, which actually double the thread count

Read on for more information that will help you make your decision…

2. Weave

Standard – 1 stitch over, 1 stitch under – this is the basic weave
Pinpoint – 2 stitches over, 1 stitch under – this weave may not be as soft to the touch, but it is the most durable
Sateen – 4 stitches over, 1 stitch under – this has a very soft feel, but may not be as durable as other weaves

3. Types of Cotton

Combed Cotton – this is a cleaning process that eliminates the shorter, less desirable fibers
Muslin – the low end of the cotton spectrum; usually used in children’s themed bedding (thread count range: 128-140)
Percale – closely woven fibers; available in 100% cotton and 50/50 cotton/poly blends (thread count range: 140-200)
Pima or Supima – 100% cotton – very high quality grown in the Southwestern United States (thread count range: 200-300)
Egyptian – 100% cotton – very high quality grown next to the Nile River (thread count range: 200-400)

One last question for the Pop Quiz: True or False – the higher the thread count, the better quality the sheets.

What was your answer? If you answered “True”…go back and read #1 one more time.

Now that you have all of your bed linen facts straight, where are you going to find those sheets?

I’m always looking for great bargains and I’ve found that Overstock.com has great quality sheets at tremendous prices. You can find all thread counts, weaves and cotton types – it really just depends on your personal preference and budget.

Happy Shopping!

Nails - Acrylic vs. Gel

2007-04-30T04:49:00.000-07:00

Do you know the difference? Here's a great article by Alice Seba - author of Hot Mama Makeover - a free guide to help moms feel confident and sexy.

What's the Difference Between Acrylic & Gel Nails?

One question that a number of moms who have read the guide have asked me is “What’s the difference between acrylic and gel nails?” Here are some comparisons to help you decide which works best for you.

Acrylic nails
- Composed of 2 parts: liquid and powder- Take a bit longer than gels to dry- Most are stronger, but can break due to lack of flexibility- Cost less than gels- Requires filling every 2-3 weeks depending on how quickly your nails grow

Gel Nails
- More natural looking- Limited filing required reducing the risk of burns/cuts- Dry with a UV lamp - Quick to dry, but the whole application process takes longer- Lifting can occur if you have oily nails or live in a humid environment- Cost is higher than acrylics- Also require filling every 2-3 weeks

Most nail salons offer both options. Always talk with your nail technician about any concerns you have beforehand. Choose the option that works best for you and enjoy you’re pretty, new nails, you Hot Mama, you! ;)
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Alice Seba is the author of Hot Mama Makeover, a free guide to help moms feel a little bit sexier and whole lot more confident. Get your free copy here.

The South Beach Diet

2007-04-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

The South Beach Diet has sold millions of copies and was founded by Dr. Agatston while working on a diet for his heart patients in the mid 1990s.

The diet is based around eating the right type of carbohydrates and good fats rather than bad fats. However, the diet advices you cut out all carbs and alcohol during the first two weeks (phase 1) of the diet. During phase 2 you can reintroduced the right type of carbs and fruits in moderation according to the diet guidelines.

The diet also advices eating low glycemic index foods . For example, low glycemic index fruits you can eat on the diet are apples and pears. High glycemic fruits you should avoid are bananas, watermelon and pineapples.

This diet is similar to the Atkins diet but unlike the Atkins diet, Dr. Agatston warns that you should not consumed saturated fats such as butter, ground beef and bacon. Instead you are allowed to eat monosaturated fats such as olive oil and salmon fish.

The South Beach Diet is divided into three phases:

Phase 1: lasts 14 days and is the strictest phase of the diet. You are not allowed to eat any carbohydrates or drink alcohol during this phase. Many dieters find this phase quite restrictive.
Phase 2: You stay on this phase until you reach your weightloss goal. During this phase you can reintroduced some carbs in moderation. You are given a list of carbs and foods you can include in The South Beach Diet Plan Book.
Phase 3: This is the maintenance phase of the diet and you can add extra foods during this time. This is the phase you will remain on for the long term and is much more flexible. If your weight begins to increase you are advised to return to phase 1 of the diet.

Where can you buy it? Amazon.com

Helpful Tips for Getting a Good Night's Sleep!

2007-04-25T10:39:00.000-07:00

Most of us have experienced a night of where we just couldn’t get to sleep, or kept waking up in the middle of the night. In fact, most of us haven't experienced a good night's sleep since our oldest child was born!

While one night of not sleeping can be annoying, persistent insomnia can have negative consequences on our work, personal relationships, and health. If you just haven’t been able to get a good night’s sleep, here are some tips and tricks you can use to catch some z’s.

Watch What You Eat!

Avoid caffeine and other stimulants. You may think you’re okay if you don’t drink caffeine before bedtime, but stimulants can stay in our bodies for up to 6 hours. If you’re having trouble sleeping. Try not to drink caffeine after lunch time.
Don’t drink alcohol. This may put you to sleep right away, but you’re much more likely to wake up in the night and have a much less restful sleep.
Try some tryptophan. This is the chemical in turkey that makes you sleepy. It’s also found with most protein. Try eating a little protein with some complex carbohydrates at night. You could also try a warm glass of milk, another good source of tryptophan.
Avoid a big dinner. A lot of food late at night provides you energy and actually helps wake you up. It can also cause painful indigestion that will keep you from sleeping. Try eating a moderate dinner and a small bedtime snack instead.

Watch Your Sleeping and Bedtime Habits!

Have a set sleeping schedule. Our bodies thrive on schedules and rhythms. Waking up and going to bed at a set time will help your body develop a normal sleeping rhythm.
Get darkness and light. Another way to help set your natural rhythms is to make your bedroom dark or wear a mask while you’re sleeping. Shortly after you wake up in the morning, expose yourself to the sun or other bright lights.
Start a bedtime ritual. Our bodies develop natural responses to what we do. If you follow a certain pattern before you go to sleep every night, your body will know it’s time for sleep when you do these things. This will help you fall asleep faster and easier.
Only sleep in your bedroom. You’re much less likely to be able to sleep in a place where you work, read, or watch T.V. If you sleep and only sleep in your bedroom, your mind won’t be occupied by other things.

Watch the Stress!

Take a warm bath. This will soothe your muscles and help you relax. Just be sure your bath isn’t too hot; it can actually make you more awake.
Try deep breathing and visualization. These can not only help calm you and prepare you for rest, they can also clear your mind and push away stressful thoughts.
Avoid stimulating activities. This includes not reading or watching T.V. before bed. Instead of relaxing and sleeping, you’ll end up thinking about what you saw or read.

If you find that none of these techniques work for you, you may also want to look at herbal remedies that will calm you and help you rest. If all else fails, you should pay a visit to your doctor.

Orange and Cashew Couscous Salad

2007-04-24T07:51:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
For the Salad:
8 oz of apple juice
6 oz of couscous (dried)
½ red pepper, cored, deseeded and diced
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
1 oz of raisins
2 oranges peeled, deseeded and cut into segments
1 oz of cashew nuts

Dressing:
Juice of 1 orange
Juice of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons olive or walnut oil
1 teaspoon honey

Directions:
Place the apple juice in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Slowly stir in the couscous and remove from heat. Cover and let stand for 7 to 10 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Fluff with fork. Add the herbs, raisins and peppers and orange segments. Gently toss together. Transfer to serving bowl.

For the dressing, place the ingredients in a saucepan and gently heat until the honey is dissolved. Do not bring to a boil. Drizzle dressing over the salad and garnish with cashew nuts.

Confessions of a SuperMom's Obsessions

2007-04-23T04:04:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Robyn at One Tough Momma to list my top 5 obsessions. What does a SuperMom obsess about you ask? Check it out...I bet yours are very close to mine!

Making Lists - My memory is gone after the 3 labors and deliveries took most of my brain cells. I am constantly making lists...grocery store, "to do" lists, work lists, what's due this week lists, and the list goes on and on. I take great pleasure in being able to ~~complete a task~~ cross something off of my list.
Organizational Tools - Charts, whiteboards, calendars, dry erase markers...my house is full of them and I can't get enough!
Checking my email - This is the plight of the WAHM (Work at Home Mom)...I wake up in the morning, check my email...I come in from an appointment, check my email...I am cooking dinner, check my email...I'm on my way to bed, check my email...you get the picture. This is a true obsession.
Cleaning Little Hands and Faces - I don't care if you're my kid or not. I am forever armed with a wipey or a wet paper towel (sing it with me kids - warm water is our friend) to wipe down and ward off any potential messes on my kitchen chairs, refrigerator and family room furniture.
Grey's Anatomy - Seriously...I HAVE to have my McDreamy fix weekly.

Thanks Robyn for allowing me to take a closer look at myself and realize that I really AM a freak!

I'm going to go ahead and tag two of my favorite SuperMoms to take part in this fun and enlightening exercise. Busy Mom and Suburban Oblivion...you're it!

Quick Pampering Tips

2007-04-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

Every mom deserves a break. You can’t always take a day off just for you. However, you can pamper yourself any day of the week, right at home. These quick pampering tips for moms are sure to give you a quick boost!

Listen to your favorite music

When was the last time you bought yourself a new CD of your favorite artist? Turn on some motivating music for yourself. Listen to music to relax or pump up the volume and dance while you do the laundry.

Light some candles

Gather a few scented candles and light them for a soothing effect. Be sure to keep a few of the scents you like best on hand so you never run out.

Bubble bath

Fill your bath tub with hot water. Squirt in some nice-smelling bubble bath. Scents like lavender, mint and vanilla contribute a calming aroma.

Rose petal soak

Instead of using bubble bath or bath salts, drop some rose petals in your water just before you get ready to soak.

Rose petal foot soak

Soak your feet for twenty minutes in warm water with rose petals. The smell from the rose petals have a calming effect and the foot soak is sure to be a treat for mom’s tired feet.

Manicure and pedicure

What mom doesn’t deserve a nice pampering manicure and pedicure! Plan a special day out alone for this special treat. If you can’t afford to pay for this, invite a girlfriend and take turns pampering each other.

Save face

Buy an inexpensive tube of facial mask and soothing cream. Give yourself a facial while relaxing in the tub or soaking your feet in a rose petal foot soak.

Mother-daughter pampering

All moms need special pampering, but don’t forget to include your daughters from time to time. If you have a younger daughter, use some of these pampering tips we’ve provided for a fun mother-daughter night. Take turns giving each other facials and manicures, rubbing lotion on your feet or combing your hair. If you have an older daughter, save and plan for a special mother-daughter pampering day at the spa.

These should make you feel rejuvenated and ready to face your overworked life! If you want some more tips and helpful advice on how to reduce your stress and get a better balance out of your life, check out Journey to Joy - a complete multimedia package to help SuperMoms like us attain the center and balance that we so need and deserve!

Fancy Diet? Portion Control is the Answer!

2007-04-18T13:49:00.000-07:00

When it comes to losing weight, your ultimate success will often depend on portion control. You've heard this over and over again throughout your lifetime, but it's really a true statement. You’re better off eating moderate portions of all different types of foods including a few treats here and there than piling your plate up with apparently healthy options.

Many of us don’t even know what an adequate portion size should be. Go to any high-chain restaurant and your plate will be piled high of food, sometimes you’ll be served up to 5 portions in one sitting! So just how do you watch your portion size and reduce your waist line?

Eat slower – you’ve heard it before I’m sure, but it’s so true, if you take time to eat your meals, your brain will have adequate time to register you’ve had enough. Many of us are out of touch with our bodies and we keep eating until we feel so full we could burst. Try to make the mind and body connection by eating your food slowly and taking the time to enjoy each bite.

The Portion Plate – You don’t need to invest in any fancy plate to help you do this, it’s really easy to do anywhere. Mentally divide your plate in half, fill the first half with vegetables then divide the remaining half in half. One half will consist of a portion of carbohydrates such as pasta, rice, and so on and the other half should consist of a protein such as chicken, fish, eggs or beans.

That’s your new portion rule from now on, one quarter protein, one quarter carbohydrates and one half fresh salad or veggies.

Keep the visual image of what your plate should look like anytime you are about to make a food choice. If you’re just having a chicken sandwich for example remember the chicken serving should ideally fit into that quarter of the plate, add two slices of bread and fill up the rest with fresh salad or veggies.

This is by far the easiest way to control your portion size and if you do this with your three daily meals and replace junk food snacks with healthier options such as fruit and low fat yogurt, you are almost guaranteed to lose weight without having to follow any strict diet regimen. Still not sure? Give yourself a few days to try it and see the great results for yourself.

Say Goodbye to Crunches...There is a Better Way!

2007-04-17T07:21:00.000-07:00

If you’re like me, you’re probably not a really big fan of sit ups and crunches. They’re awkward, show mediocre results, and if your don’t do them properly, they can cause severe strain to your neck and back. Raise your hand if you've experienced this!!

Is there an alternative...or are we destined to do this exercise that we can't stand for the rest of our lives? Yes...and No!

Yoga and Pilates have been around and talked about for quite a few years. It has been all the craze for the Hollywood crowd. But they have really caught on to something...using Yoga, Pilates, or both, you can have sleek, toned abs, plus strong back muscles and a totally healthy overall physique.

Yoga operates on several levels to help tone your abs, along with the rest of your body. The basic concept of Yoga is to hold yourself in poses. Holding these poses requires maintaining a correct posture. Just being in a good posture can strengthen your abdominal muscles. They are part of the core muscles that help you achieve and maintain proper posture. Even though you can’t feel it, these muscles are constantly making tiny adjustments and getting a great workout.

In Yoga, the poses are held for extended periods of time. Slow, even movements and long poses give your core muscles an even better workout and help develop stamina through muscle strength. You’ll probably be able to notice a visible difference in your abs, but even if you can’t, you’ll know they’re stronger when you can maintain better balance for longer periods of time.

Another major part of Yoga is focused, deep breathing that allows your body to relax as you pose. This deep breathing involves using your abdominal muscles instead of your shoulders to help inhale and exhale. In addition to your abs helping you maintain balance, you also exercise them even more simply by breathing.

Pilates is similar to your abs with the benefits it offers. Pilates requires use of your abdominal muscles for proper posture and for breathing, just as Yoga does; however, instead of remaining stable, you move your arms and legs around. This is actually just as beneficial for your abs because you have to use them to keep your body still while your arms and legs are in motion. Natural movement would have your torso move, but your abs and back muscles work to keep it stable.

Even though Yoga and Pilates are constantly working your abdominal muscles, there are specific exercises you can do to target these areas, especially in Pilates. These will give you the extra boost you need for more drastic results.

Neither Yoga or Pilates can be learned overnight; however, once you begin to master one of both or these arts, you will get an abs workout like never before without even thinking about crunches!

Welcome!

2007-04-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

You are the quintessential SuperMom...doing everything for everyone else.

Now it's time to take a break and take care of YOU!

I'm taking this journey with you - I've got 3 kids and a husband AND I work out of my home about 40-50 hours per week (all hours of the day and night). I get tired, fed up, and in desperate need of pampering :)

During this time together, I'll provide you daily entries with some very useful information for you to take care of you! We'll discuss pampering (of course - 'cause we all need it), exercise, diet, healthy recipes, relationships, product reviews on current diets and exercise equipment and much more! We'll hit on many different topics that will hopefully let you take a look at your life and where you need to sculpt, tone and revive your life!

I'm so happy to be able to come along with you and learn a few things too!