Plant foods such as legumes, nuts, and seeds are especially high in protein, while veggies and grains contain only varying amounts. Vegetarians need to assure adequate consumption of vitamin B12 and D, calcium, iron, and zinc. Vegetarian or not, your best bet is to eat a wide variety of foods to assure adequate nourishment! Read More

FITNESS TIP Getting fit at work: Take the steps instead of the elevator and time yourself. Set a goal to decrease your time. Read More

HEALTH TIP You don't have to bore yourself with flavorless fish, chicken and meat. Heat things up with hot peppers and hot sauce. If you like your foods with a little kick, have these on hand for firing up everything from eggs to potatoes. Putting some heat in foods provides low-fat intensity, which eliminates the need for mayonnaise and other fattening additions. Read More

FITNESS TIP There are a variety of water exercise classes. Classes may include aqua kickboxing, hydro-toning and hydro-spinning which uses a specially made bike in the water. The classes are led by certified instructors who often use music and different types of movements to give an effective toning and cardiovascular workout. Read More

HEALTH TIP Tickle your taste buds without fat or calories by making the most of herbs and spices. Thyme has a light, minty aroma. Parsley gives kick and color to Italian-accented dishes. Cilantro has a lively, pungent fragrance that lends itself well to salsa, and rosemary pairs well with garlic in a savory sauce. Spice it up. sprinkle chopped tarragon with dill or parsley over grilled chicken, fish, or veggies. Read More

FITNESS TIP A good idea once you have a workout video is to watch it entirely before trying it. This way you'll know what is involved in the workout and determine if you need additional instruction or equipment that is being used in the workout. Read More

HEALTH TIP The American Heart Association recommends choosing at least one food rich in vitamin A and C each day. Juicy vegetables and fruits, like citrus, strawberries, spinach, and bell peppers, contain the most vitamin C. Dark leafy greens, and dark orange fruits and vegetables provide optimal vitamin A, like broccoli, apricots, sweet potatoes, carrots, or cantaloupe. Try to consume five fruits or vegetables a day for optimum health. Read More

FITNESS TIP Contrary to common perceptions, you do not always have to be the most coordinated person to participate in a group exercise class. The key to being is not giving up. Keep in mind that the people in the class were once beginners and they became successful with a little determination and persistence. Get recommendations from friends, family, co-workers and associates who take group classes. Read More

HEALTH TIP Only 2 percent of adults suffer from true food allergies. The most common food allergies include reactions to milk, peanuts, eggs, soybean, fish, shellfish and wheat. If you think you have a food allergy, check with your doctor. The best place to try a food with previous confirmed allergic reactions is in the doctor's office where you can have immediate medical attention if needed. Read More

FITNESS TIP Look for businesses that rent out equipment such as roller blades, kayaks, bicycles, tennis and racquetball equipment for a small fee. This way you'll have no excuse for not doing something physical while you are traveling. Read More

HEALTH TIP Hold the mayo and opt for high-quality mustard. A delicious, flavor-packed substitute, mustards are the perfect base for a tangy dipping sauce, zippy salad dressing or classic sandwich spread. There are so many varieties out there for enticing your taste buds -- try Dijon, country-style, honey mustard and even fruity versions. Read More

FITNESS TIP When walking, keep your hands relaxed and cupped gently and swing your arms so that they brush past your body. On the upswing, your hand should be level with your breastbone; on the downswing, your hand should brush against your hip. Keep your hips loose and relaxed. Your feet should land firmly, heel first. The next step is to roll through your heel to the arch then to the ball of your foot and then to your toes. Push off from your toes and the ball of your foot. Read More

HEALTH TIP Can't avoid that freezer burn? It won't make you sick, but it will make food tasteless and tough. Good meats can quickly go bad when not properly packaged. To avoid the burn, wrap food properly in aluminum foil, heavy freezer paper or plastic freezer bags. Freezer containers with tight lids can do the trick too. Be sure to get the air out before you seal. Read More

FITNESS TIP Many times hotels and motels have agreements with local fitness centers and gyms that allow guests to use the facilities for a small fee or no fee. Check at the front desk of the hotel or speak to the concierge to find out about additional perks. Read More

HEALTH TIP No one nutrient can prevent cancer. However, the American Institute for Cancer Research believes that we could lower worldwide cancer rates by 30-40 percent by adopting a diet high in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and coupling it with regular exercise. Your eDiets meal plan provides just this kind of diet so your waistline and your health will benefit! Read More

FITNESS TIP Crosstraining can be applied by changing where you workout, like switching to outdoor workouts if you traditionally workout indoors. Alternating your indoor and outdoor workouts throughout the week is only one of the options in this area. Or consider working out indoors one week, then outdoors the next. Read More

HEALTH TIP The first mechanical process of pressing olives yields the robust "virgin" olive oil. Virgin olive oil is best used in recipes that require minimal heating, as in dressings, marinades, or dips. To maintain flavor and freshness, store it away from direct sunlight. And remember, though it contains heart-healthy fats, it still has 45 calories per teaspoon. A small amount goes a long way. Read More

FITNESS TIP Relieve stress and neck pain. Sitting in a relaxed position, tilt your ear to your shoulder without rotating your head. Hold, relax and repeat 10 to 15 times. Add gentle resistance with your hand, releasing and then stretching a little further. Read More

HEALTH TIP Invest in a kitchen scale, measuring cups and spoons. These tools will help ensure that you're not overeating. Portion control is critical when it comes to losing or maintaining weight. Learn how to estimate how much you should be eating by accurately measuring your food and before long, you'll be able to "eyeball" the amount you need. Read More

FITNESS TIP Try to maintain proper posture. All the stretching in the world is not going to help if your postures are imbalanced and cause the muscles to tense on one side and overstretch on the other. You can also try holding your head as a natural extension of your spine with your shoulders down, neutral and relaxed. Read More

Cheers to Water
From portable water backpacks to the various colors and shapes of water bottles to choose from, you may think water is the newest fashion trend. But, water is more than a fashion accessory; it is a crucial component to your health. Neglecting proper hydration can cause negative effects on your physical appearance and your attitude. The loss of natural glow in your face, the sensation of tight skin or becoming easily fatigued or irritable are often signs of dehydration. FIJI water says to maintain a healthy balance, inside and out, strive to drink over two quarts of water a day no matter what the season. (Be careful during the winter months because the cold weather often makes it difficult to respond to thirst.) Beat the beverage battle by drinking before you feel thirsty and keeping a reusable bottle at hand so you will be reminded to drink. If the clear fluid doesn't appeal to your taste buds, adopt an herbal tea or a light flavored beverage instead. In addition to your water consumption, FIJI Water suggests to include water-rich fruits and vegetables to your diet, such as cucumbers, watermelon and oranges.

HEALTH TIP Diabetes is a non-negotiable condition. That means your options are limited if you have diabetes or are predisposed to the disease -- it's essential to adopt good behaviors in order to improve your condition or lower your risk of developing diabetes. Maintain or achieve a healthy weight by following a sensible diet and getting daily physical. When motivation lags, think of your health. Read More

FITNESS TIP One of the easiest ways to monitor your exercise intensity is to rate perceived exertion (RPE). Whether you walk, jog, bicycle, bench step, climb stairs or perform low-impact aerobics, your exercise intensity should be within a range of comfort. Perceived exertion is assessed by using a 0 to 10 chart to rate the feelings caused by your exertion. The recommended RPE range for most people is usually between 3 (moderate) and 5 (strong). Read More

HEALTH TIP Vinegar, that tangy, low-calorie seasoning for salads and marinades, also cuts grease, removes stains and lifts mineral deposits! Contrary to some popular advertisements, it's not a miracle weight-loss potion. It's actually the opposite. The acidic effects of vinegar may help break down dietary fat, making it more readily absorbable. Read More

FITNESS TIP When doing abdominal exercises consider these tips to avoid straining the neck. When you are lying on the floor, think of your head being a natural extension of your spine. Try to keep your head back and relaxed. You can gently cradle your head in your hands, but do not pull on your neck as you focus on the abdominals and slowly lift up. Read More

Kudos to Coffee

Kudos to Coffee: Here's a tip I can execute TODAY! "Remember when coffee was the enemy? That was only about five or six years ago. Many of us looked down our noses at java addicts, clucking about the stress, high blood pressure and even heart disease that drinkers might be inflicting upon themselves. How times have changed! Today we know that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, a disease that’s poised to be a huge health threat in the fattest of Western nations. Moreover, it’s the coffee drinkers who are most addicted to the brew that seem to reap the most benefit."

Care2 Greenliving :: Daily Quotes for August 2007

Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift--that's why they call it 'the present'.

Care2 - The Healing Power of Spices

Care2 - The Healing Power of Spices: "The Healing Power of Spices David Winston - American Herbalists Guild Traditional medicine has recognized the medicinal benefits of spices for thousands of years. Now: A growing body of scientific evidence supports the use of spices to prevent -- and even help treat -- various diseases, such as arthritis, diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer's.*

New findings... CAYENNE PEPPER What it does: Lowers cholesterol... helps prevent atherosclerosis... and reduces allergic responses. An extract from the pepper, called capsaicin, can be used in a topical cream to treat pain from arthritis, shingles, bursitis, low-back ache and neuropathy (nerve pain). Cayenne's benefits can be attributed to the antioxidants, flavonoids and carotenoids it contains, all of which have anti-inflammatory effects and enhance circulation. Capsaicin depletes nerve endings of substance P, a neurotransmitter that facilitates nerve transmission of pain."

HEALTH TIP Holidays are a time for celebrations, which generally take place around meals and food! No need to deprive yourself at a barbecue or picnic. Do, however, fill up on the healthiest fare first -- lots of salad and fresh veggies -- then savor "just one" of your favorite goodies! You?'l be less likely to overeat and consume unnecessary fat and calories if you plan ahead and decide what you're going to eat before the party. Read More				FITNESS TIP Take a class at a gym, a community center, a spa, a school, or a club. Group classes have an energy that is contagious and can often make an hour go by very quickly. Many instructors can make the most grueling workout bearable and before you know it, an hour has come and gone. Read More

Diet Information: Balanced Diet & Nutrition Information

Diet Information: Balanced Diet & Nutrition Information: "Stretching for Health Stretching for Health Lack of flexibility can lead to health problems and sports injury. Stretching correctly can help ease back pain, knee and hip pain. The right way to stretch..."