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December 31, 2007

Happy New Year- Preventing a Hangover

It's New Year's Eve, one of the biggest nights for partying every year.  And New Year's Day is presumably one of the biggest days for hangovers.  We all know that the only way to prevent a hangover is to abstain from alcohol completely, or drink in moderation.  However, if you are going to be drinking, here are some tips for treating the symptoms of  a hangover or helping prevent one in the first place.  Everyone knows that the main reason for hangovers is dehydration.  If you are going to be drinking alcohol, you need to consume water or other liquids to maintain a certain level of hydration or your body will not be able to break down the alcohol and the toxins will make you sick.  Drinking alcohol also robs your body of essential nutrients.  Be sure to eat while drinking and the day after to give your body the nourishment it needs.  Food also helps dilute the alcohol and protects the stomach lining so that your body doesn't absorb the toxins as much.  Keep in mind that drinking sweet drinks can disguise the taste of alcohol causing you to drink more, and mixing alcohols can be dangerous too!  The liver can process only about two teaspoons of alcohol per hour, so it takes the average adult five to six hours to completely metabolize the quantity of alcohol contained in four ounces of whiskey, or three twelve-ounce beers.  Drinking when you are sick or stressed is also suspect as your body is already functioning poorly and has a harder time metabolizing alcohol.  So, tonight, if you plan to drink, drink in moderation.  You will feel better tomorrow, your body will thank you, and you will be safer overall.  If you do drink, don't drink and drive.  Have a designated driver or have a cab company's number handy.  Happy New Year to you all!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 11:40 AM |

December 29, 2007

Sambucol Recall

So interestingly, I went to the local health food store yesterday to pick up my Sambucol, as I wrote about in yesterday's blog, and to my dismay, it had been recalled.  The salesperson didn't know why, so I did some research.  It seems that Sambucol was recalled due to:

Date Initiated: September 19, 2007

  • Recall Level: Class 3
  • Product: Nature's Way Sambucol Syrup & Sugar Free
  • Size: 4 oz.
  • UPC's: 33674-06970, 33674-06971

Voluntary Dietary Supplement Recall.

Product contains undisclosed preservatives and flavors.

What this means is that the FDA discovered a discrepancy in their labeling, which violates their "truth in labeling" laws.  This is good for us as consumers to know that we are being protected in this way.  However, I still believe in this product, and hope it is back on the shelves with the true ingredients listed.  It is an award-winning elderberry extract created by a doctor, and I look forward to it's return.  In the meantime, I picked up another elderberry extract and hope to keep this darned cold at bay!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 02:20 PM |

December 28, 2007

Elderberry's Health Benefits

So, you know that feeling you get some nights where your head feels a little congested and you start feeling the onslaught of a sore throat?  You start readying yourself for the ill-fated cold, and when you wake up the next day, you are still fighting it, barely....well, that's how I feel today.   After being around sick people over the holidays and at work, I feel like I may have gotten a touch of their ick.  So, since I am still in fight-mode, my first line of defense, besides sleep, is elderberry extract.  There is a product that I totally love called Sambucol, and it helped keep me from getting sick last year during the cold and flu season.  I am going to go get some today to keep this cold at bay.  So, what exactly does elderberry do in the body?  The elderberry is one of the common fruit-bearing shrubs in North America.  It was called the "medicine chest of the people" by Indians and American settlers due to it's medicinal properties.  Traditionally elderberry has been used in the treatment and prevention of colds, flu, sinusitis, and other conditions. The edible berries are rich in vitamin C and get their dark color form their high anthocyanin and bioflavonoid content. They are primarily used to treat flu symptoms and as an immunostimulant.  Acting as an antioxidant, elder may protect the body against damage from free radicals.  I like to have a few bottles of the Sambucol on hand for when I start to feel like my immune system is compromised, as I have found that it works for me!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:59 AM |

December 27, 2007

Plant Oils

All plant oils, especially olive oil, help lower cholesterol and protect your heart.  Two tablespoons of olive oil a day helps prevent the inflammation that contributes to heart disease and other health issues.  Olive oil can be found in different flavors making for interesting variations in cooking.  One of my favorites is a Parmesan olive oil from William Sonoma.  When storing olive oil, make sure to keep it in a cool, dark place to ensure freshness.  When cooking, don't let oil smoke, which damages the nutritional value and flavor.  If it starts to smoke, throw it out, and start over.  Other healthier oils include canola (which I use instead of vegetable oil), soy and peanut oil (which is VERY tasty in stir fry and the like).  Try misting olive oil or these other oils on things you would ordinarily use butter or dressing on, like potatoes, salads, and vegetables.  You may be surprised at how tasty this substitution is, and your heart will thank you!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:18 AM |

December 26, 2007

New Year's Health Resolution

Congratulations on getting through the holidays!  Hopefully you were able to steer clear of colds and flus and stress that run rampant this time of year.  With New Year's Eve approaching us next week, it is time to think about changes we can make in our lives in 2008 to better our health mentally and/or physically.  I have several resolutions I am going to work on this year, but I think it's important to select one health-related resolution since we all have areas in our lives where we can improve.  So, mine is with flossing.  I am going to become a regular flosser, knowing the health benefits of doing so.  It seems sort of minute, but it's an area I need to work on, and the benefits are worth it.  I invite you to take a look at your own life, and find some place where you can improve your habits, and share it with our audience, if you like.  Making small sacrifices or changes can make big strides in your life! 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:32 AM |

December 23, 2007

Happy Holidays!

On behalf of Biosintos Nutraceuticals and myself, I wish you and yours a safe, happy and healthy holiday.  I'll be back with new blog entries on December 26.  Enjoy your loved ones and thank you for your loyal readership!

 

Cindy

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:00 AM |

December 19, 2007

Flossing Could Save Your Life?

Flossing is one habit that I have never been very good at.  My husband flosses every day, and one of my New Year's Resolutions is the same.  I remember a dentist once likening flossing to lifting weights.  Flossing strengthens your gums, much like lifting weights strengthens your muscles, and helps to hold your teeth like your muscles support your skeleton. He said that if you don't floss regularly, your teeth would have a better chance of falling out when you are older. 

Dental experts overwhelmingly agree that daily flossing is a critical, preventive step in reducing tooth decay and gum disease. Flossing removes plaque between teeth and below the gum line -- dislodging the pieces of food trapped between teeth which otherwise cannot be brushed or rinsed away.

Plaque build up causes gum disease (gingivitis) which affects some two- thirds of the U.S. population, while advanced-stage gum disease (periodontal disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults and affects between ten and fifteen percent of the U.S. population.

And, flossing COULD save your life?  According to diseaseprevention.com, for a decade, scientists have studied a possible connection between gum disease and clogged arteries. In gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, the gums become infected by bacteria and can lead to the loss of teeth.

Oral bacteria can easily enter the bloodstream and eventually can make it to the heart. Once the bacteria arrive, they can activate an inflammatory response in the heart and ultimately build up atherosclerotic plaque that leads to heart disease.  So, even though the debate is still on to determine whether or not this can be prevented with flossing, the oral benefits alone should be enough to get you flossing.  I know, it is enough for me!



 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:03 AM |

December 14, 2007

I Love Naked....Juice

When I find a product I love, I like to tell everyone about it.  Such is the case with Naked Juice.  I've been using Naked Juice for a long time now in my protein shakes and to drink as a juice with breakfast.  I have not found a more flavorful, natural juice around.  Naked Juices contain no added sugar; it's 100% "from the fruit" juice, and each bottle contains a pound of fruit!  Some of their juices contain vitamins, minerals and other such boosters to make it a more complete smoothie type of beverage.  I find that when I use Naked Juice in my protein shakes, it gives it a very strong flavor, and I don't even have to add additional fruit.  Some of their flavors include strawberry banana, green machine, pomegranite mango, and my favorite, berry blast.  Naked Juice also contains no preservatives.  Their juices really are as natural as it gets.  If you would like to find Naked Juice and try it yourself, I buy it at Costco, where I've found it to be the least expensive, and Vons often has sales on it as well.  You can check out their site to find out additional information at www.nakedjuice.com. 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:38 AM |

December 13, 2007

Chocolate's Health Benefits

So, with the holiday festivities in full-swing, I thought we should touch on the subject of chocolate.  Of course, we all know too much of anything is not good, but if we're going to indulge in chocolate cookies, chocolate cake and chocolate candies, we may as well address the healthy side of chocolate so we can see the silver lining in our temptation.  Chocolate contains flavonoids, a potent antioxidant, and the quality and quantity of this antioxidant in chocolate is relatively high in comparison with other foods.  Cocoa ranks the highest of chocolate products, followed by dark chocolate and then milk chocolate.  Studies have also shown that dark chocolate can help reduce blood pressure in those with hypertension problems, and can also raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels. 

It is good to know that chocolate contains ingredients beneficial to health. However, it does not necessarily mean you should eat more chocolate products. Chocolate bars and candies are often high in fat, sugar and calories. Moderation is always the key - having a decadent piece of chocolate once in a while is not going to harm your health, either. If you have a choice, choose dark chocolate for its higher flavonoid content!

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:02 AM |

December 12, 2007

What is a Hiccup?

What are Hiccups?

Hiccups are a reflex action; which means that we do not have any control over them. Hiccups are a sudden, involuntary squeezing of the diaphragm, the main breathing muscle under the lungs, which results in sucking the air quickly into the lungs thereby snapping and shutting glottis above the voice-box (larynx). This snapping makes the sound of a hiccup. Hiccups will usually stop on their own. Continuous hiccups lasting for more than a day or two may indicate a cause of an underlying disease, which needs medical intervention.

I can't stand the hiccups!  And I'm curious to know your different hiccup remedies.  My husband says that he has proven that bitters and club soda works.  What do you suggest?

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:17 AM |

December 10, 2007

Vegetable Steaming

Steamed vegetables are a healthy addition to the dinner table, but not everyone is sure exactly how to do it.  Vegetables are steamed by boiling liquid and cooking the vegetables in the steam generated from the boiling liquid. Besides water, steaming can be done with some lemon juice, wine, soy sauce, meat stock, or other liquids to the water to add flavor to the vegetables.  You can throw in different spices, garlic or onion to further flavor the veggies.  There are several ways to steam vegetables. The easiest way is to purchase an electric steamer. A second option is to buy a metal steamer pot. A steamer pot has a colander that is slightly smaller than the pot itself that fits into the pot and leaves a few inches of clearance at the bottom for the water. A third option is to fashion your own steamer. Place a large pot on the stove and add an inch or two of water. Place a small colander or footed steaming basket in the pot so that the vegetables are not touching the water. The important thing is that the water does not actually touch the vegetables, but it is close enough for the steam to cook the vegetables. Almost any vegetable or vegetable mixture can be steamed. Depending on the type of steamer and size of vegetable, steaming times can vary greatly. When you are steaming mixtures of vegetables, make sure to cut the vegetables into small pieces if it requires longer cooking times. There are several easy ways to tell when a vegetable is cooked. If it is a green vegetable, look for a vibrant color change. When the color intensifies the vegetable is done. It will still be quite crispy, but is tender enough to eat. This should take at the most about three minutes. In the case of leafy greens like spinach it can take only a minute. For non leafy green vegetables like broccoli and green beans, it can take as long as 8-10 minutes depending on the size of the vegetables and how tender you like the vegetables.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:45 AM |

December 08, 2007

The Gift of Health

With the holidays here, what can you buy for the health nuts or people who SHOULD be health nuts on your shopping list?  Here are some ideas for giving the gift of health:

  • Gift certificates- I think gift certificates are a great gift so that the recipient can get exactly what they want.  Consider giving gift certificates to the local yoga studio, a vitamin store, a health food store, or to a sporting goods store. 
  • Accessories- if your favorite health nut goes to the gym, consider getting them a zip-up sweatshirt to wear to the gym, workout gloves, a new set of headphones or a gift basket with workout towels, protein bars, water bottle, etc.
  • Runner- for the runner on your list, consider getting a gift certificate to the local running store, a pedometer, headphones, etc.
  • Subscription to a fitness magazine- this is a great gift that arrives every month!  My favorites are Oxygen, Muscle and Fitness Hers, Body + Soul, Prevention, and there are many others geared toward specific areas of interest.
  • Yoga nut- for the yoga nut you could get a gift certificate to the local yoga studio (those classes are pricey!), a new yoga mat, or at-home yoga videos for days when they want to get their workout done in the privacy of their home.
  • Books- how about getting someone who is either a current health nut, or whose New Year's resolution is to get healthy, a book on getting fit, eating better or exercising.  Some of my favorites are "You-Staying Young", "The Encyclopedia of Bodybuilding" and "Prescription for Nutritional Healing".

There are so many opportunities for you to give your loved ones gifts of health, and what better thing can you give someone? 

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 10:39 AM |

December 07, 2007

Cucumber Remedy

I woke up this morning with a killer headache, which I've actually had for about three days.  So, I hopped in the bathtub and put cucumber slices on my puffy eyes.  Then I started to wonder, why do we put cucumbers on our eyes?  What do they contain that reduce puffiness?  So, I looked up the information, and here's what I came up with.   I thought perhaps it is the cucumber flesh that can reduce swelling and revitalize skin, but that's not it. Cucumber is over 90 percent water and the rest is mostly inert fiber with no skin benefits. However, cucumber slices do sometimes reduce puffiness a bit. That's because they are cold! You store your cucumbers in the refrigerator, don't you? It is the cold (not the cucumber) that shrinks the swelling by constricting blood vessels and thus reducing inflow of fluid into soft tissues. You can get the same results with a washcloth dipped in cold water.  One of my other favorite tricks is to fill a small bowl with about an inch of water and ice cubes to make it really cold.  Place two round cotton pads (like facial cleansing pads) in the water and add a little witch hazel.  Let the pads get nice and cold and then place over eyes.  It is VERY refreshing and helps reduce puffiness as well!  Now, if I could just reduce the throbbing!Laughing

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 09:45 AM |

December 06, 2007

Are all Sugars Equal? (no pun intended)

We've been told time and again to limit the intake of sugars in our daily diet.  So does this mean we have to limit the amounts of sweet fruits and vegetables like oranges, carrots, and corn?  There are two different kinds of sugars, naturally occuring sugars and added sugars.  Naturally occuring sugars are those found from Mother Nature, such as in fruits and vegetables.  These natural sugars do not raise your risk of diabetes in the same way that added sugar does.  Plus, fruits and vegetables are obviously chock-full of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals.  Added sugars, on the other hand should be limited to less than 10% of your total daily calories according to the World Health Organization.  That equals between 40-45 grams a day.  If you look at the ingredients on the foods you eat, look for the following words: added sugars, brown sugar, corn syrup, corn sweetener, dextrose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, invert sugar, malt syrup, molasses, sucrose and sugar.  These are considered added sugars and should be limited.

 Source: Prevention Magazine

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 07:30 AM |

December 05, 2007

Garlic- Tastes Good, and Good For You

One of my dream trips would be to visit the Garlic Festival in Gilroy, California some day.  I can't imagine being surrounded by garlic in all different types of recipes and concoctions.  I LOVE garlic!  Not only does garlic taste good, but it's really good for you too!  AND you don't have to suffer from garlic breath in order to take advantage of it's health benefits.  Several companies make garlic in capsule form and are odorless and tasteless.  So, what does garlic do in the body?  Garlic is a healing herb with antioxidant properties, protecting against oxidation and free radicals.  The sulfur and hydrogen compounds in garlic are potent chelators of toxic heavy metals in the body, binding with them so they can be excreted.  Aged garlic extract reduces blood cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risk of heart attack, provides protection from heart disease by preventing clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes and helps lower high blood pressure.  Garlic is effective against fungal infections and as an immune system booster. Aged garlic supplements provide a greater concentration of garlic's beneficial compounds and can be found at your local health food store.  If garlic is not already a part of your regimen, perhaps some of it's benefits will persuade you to include it. 

 Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing Fourth Edition

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 11:28 AM |

December 04, 2007

Holiday Decorating with Your Pets' Health in Mind

Attention pet owners- deck the halls, but in the best interest of your pets!  Now is the time of year for frivolity and beautiful décor, but did you know that many of the common holiday decorations can be harmful to your pets?  here are some tips for the health and safety of your pet.


·        Be cautious when decorating with holly and live mistletoe. Holly can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy if eaten by your pet. And should he sample mistletoe, he could suffer gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Opt for artificial plants made from silk or plastic.
·        Lovely lilies are commonly used in holiday floral arrangements, but many varieties—including tiger, Asian, Japanese show, stargazer and the Casablanca—can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.
·        Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria—and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.
·        Keep small ornaments and lighting wires out of the reach of pets.  Your cat or dog doesn’t know the difference between holiday decorations and toys, and will express curiosity when seeing something new to play with.  Keeping these items out of reach could eliminate accidental ingestion and electrocution.
·        Keep holiday goodies out of your pet’s reach.  We all know the dangers of chocolate and other people food to animals, so don’t even tempt them with a plate of cookies within paw’s reach.
Make sure your Christmas tree is weighted down, to avoid any accidental mishaps the likes of which we experienced last night.  An animal could pull a tree down on top of them causing injury, break glass and the like.

Source: ASPCA.org

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 08:50 AM |

December 03, 2007

Weight Training Tips

Most women think that just looking at a barbell will make them bulk up and look masculine.  But the benefits of weight training can be seen by all.  Weight training results in a toned, strong body.  As women, we do not have the testosterone levels men do, which make their muscle dramatically increase in size.  There is a difference between seeing the definition of muscles and being overly muscular.  When done correctly, weight training can help you lose fat, increase strength and muscle tone and improve your bone density.  Here are some important things to remember when training with weights:

  • Make sure that you use an appropriate weight; the best is a weight you can lift comfortably 12 to 15 times.  As you get stronger, gradually increase the weight.
  • Use proper form.  Most injuries result from improper lifting or posture.  The better your form, the better your results AND fewer injuries.  If you are not sure of proper form for a particular exercise, consult a trainer or research on line or in a book.
  • Make sure that you get enough rest for the different muscle groups.  Over training will decrease results and could increase injuries.  I suggest having at least one day's rest between each muscle group.  Better yet, is to split your routine into two or three days (i.e. back and shoulders one day, legs the next, chest and triceps the third) to get a better workout and proper rest.
  • Be sure to warm up before training with aerobic activity or stretching to prevent injuries.
  • Do not rush through exercises.  Taking it slow helps to isolate muscles for the best results and will also lower your risk of injury.

Posted by Cindy Burreson at 11:46 AM |