Healthy Food Healthy Skin

15 Foods That Boost Your Metabolism

Healthy Food

Foods You Should Eat Everyday

Kim Kardashian 2015

Fun Ways to De-Stress This Fall

Fall brings crisp, perfect weather, and it’s a season that’s full of promise and excitement for the upcoming holidays. As you say goodbye to summer and welcome in autumn, start the season feeling rejuvenated by taking some time to de-stress. Take a deep breath, read on, and then start incorporating these five fun ways to de-stress into your fall routine.

1. Switch up your workout routine

A new season calls for a new workout routine. A great way to switch up your routine is to take your workout outside. If you’re used to running on the treadmill because it was way too hot over the summer to do it outdoors, now is the perfect time to take it outside. Fall weather is perfect for exercising, and watching the leaves turn is a great distraction and beautiful sight to see while you’re running. You can also switch things up by trying something new: Take a workout class you’ve never considered before. New season, new you.

2. Clean out your closet

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Everybody cleans in the spring. But what about fall cleaning? You can clean out your closet, make room for fall favorites, and get rid of clothes that you don’t actually wear. You’ll enter the new season feeling organized and refreshed, and your closet will look great.

3. Take a walk on the boardwalk

If you live close enough to a beach that has a boardwalk, take a walk (or several). The cooler air gives you unbelievable clarity and peace as you listen to the waves crashing onto the shore. It’s great to find a peaceful place before the start of what is sure to be a hectic fall into holiday season. No boardwalk? Head to the nearest trail — nature is a great place to unwind.

4. Start a new hobby

With the start of the fall, you likely have a little more free time than you did during the summer. Take up a new hobby. You know that thing you always wanted to do, like take an improv comedy class or art class? Now is the time to do it!

5. Try a new food or drink

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Going to a new restaurant and trying different types of food that shock your palate is exciting. New food brings pleasure, as well as delicious drink pairings. Are you a red wine kind of guy? Try wine from a region you’ve never had before, or switch it up and sip on something that compliments the taste of your food. You may be surprised at how much better food tastes. Eating the same types of food and drinks can get monotonous and boring — spice it up!

8 Healthy Eating Rules That NFL Players Live By

Guys who play football for a living have realized what they put into their bodies drastically impacts their performance on the field. The days of eating burgers and mile-high plates of pasta are long gone. Many teams actually hire a whole roster of chefs and nutritionists to make sure their players are eating the freshest, healthiest foods possible. We’re sharing eight tips on healthy eating straight from the players and the people who keep them fed. Follow these rules, and you could be on your way to a fantastic physique.

1. Snacks should be real foods

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Sticking to three meals a day is tough to keep hunger at bay for anyone, and it’s completely impossible for a high-level athlete. NFL players can bank on spending about four hours training when they’re preparing for the season, so staying adequately fueled is crucial. Though many people reach for energy bars or other packaged snacks to keep them satisfied until the next full meal, they’re really not very good options. No matter how carefully you choose, most nutritionists will say purchased products can’t compare with the nutrition whole foods provide.

Players have wised up to this tip. New York Giants running back Rashad Jennings told NFL.com, “I’m a whole food eater. I’m not going to waste my time on a couple little chips.” Instead, he opts for a piece of fruit, turkey meatballs, or hummus on gluten-free toast withAVOCADO and turkey bacon. Going with this type of food ensures Jennings gets plenty of fiber, protein, and fat. These mini meals also help keep him satisfied until he gets the chance to sit down to a full spread.

2. Protein is a priority

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Carbohydrates can’t be underestimated for the role they play in providing energy. Players rely on both simple and complex carbohydrates to get them through the day, but protein plays a pretty huge role as well. This nutrient is responsible forBUILDING MUSCLE and also aiding the recovery process after a grueling workout. Leslie Bonci, RD and Pittsburgh Steelers team sports dietitian, told WebMD players should make sure to eat protein before and after every workout. She also stressed the importance of lean proteins, such as chicken and beans.

This rule holds true for all players. Even stars who aren’t trying to get huge need plenty of protein to stay strong, including punter Steve Weatherford. According to TheNEW YORK TIMES, Weatherford eats upwards of 200 grams of protein every day, choosing eats like bunless turkey burgers. Obviously it’s working, as the article also mentioned the player can bench almost 400 pounds.

3. Even high-calorie diets should be high in quality

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Plenty of players need to add weight to their frames when they’re gearing up for the season. Instead of going for high-fat foods, they stick with healthy choices at a high volume. We hear nutrition experts talk about the importance of consuming quality calories, meaning foods that provide a lot of nutritional value for the amount of calories. A simple side-by-side comparison can illustrate the difference. Just 19 Cheetos pack 138 calories, more than 9 grams of fat, and not much else. Instead of going for this crunchy snack, you would be better off eating 3 ounces of chicken, which is a similar 139 calories, but has only about 3 grams of fat, and roughly 27 grams of protein. The choice is pretty easy.

This strategy is one Minnesota Vikings offensive tackle Matt Kalil implements in his routine. Even though he needs a whopping 5,000 to 6,000 calories every day, he wants to make sure he’s bulking the right way. According to the Pioneer Press, Kalil meets his goal with lean protein and healthy carbs for meals and supplementing with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches as well as protein shakes. Though it’s a more difficult way to add weight, it ensures he’s putting on muscle rather than just fat.

4. Healthy fat is essential

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Though many players stress the importance of sticking to lean proteins, it doesn’t mean fat is out of the question. For those players who need to consume 5,000 or more calories a day, a diet of low-fat foods would require them to eat mountains of food. Heather Fink, RD who specializes in sports dietetics at Indiana University Health, told IndyStar NFL athletes should get quality fats from nuts, meats, and dairy products.AVOCADO is another great choice for satisfying fats, and it’s also good for your heart.

5. Load up on fruits and veggies

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Going for plenty of produce is the best way to get the proper amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Studies continue to illustrate the importance of sticking to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. One example from 2014 found those who ate the most produce enjoyed a significantly reduced risk of death, particularly from heart disease. Most players are more concerned with the short term effects, but the plant-based approach is still a good strategy that players have embraced. According to Bolts From The Blue, most teams offer a huge salad and fruit bar at training camp. The article also said the San Diego Chargers consume 500 pounds of vegetables and 300 pounds of fruit every week.

Some players have taken the approach even further. Defensive end David Carter famously went vegan and soon found he was faster, stronger, and feeling better than ever. He certainly has to eat a lot, but the effort seems to be paying off.

6. Start the day with breakfast

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The most important meal of the day is even more important for fueling an entire day’s worth of exercise. Susan Kleiner, RD who has worked with the Seattle Seahawks told The Huffington Post she likes players to eat as much as possible in the morning. The cast of characters usually includes whole grains, eggs, fruit, and flax seeds. The Seahawks aren’t alone in their approach. Former defensive end Ryan Riddle penned a piece for Bleacher Report where he said, “Oatmeal, eggs, and a lot of juice became the early morning answer before rushing off to the training room for mandatory treatment on all reported ailments and injuries.”

7. Just say no to junk food

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Though professional football players put their bodies through an awful lot of pain and suffering, it’s still no excuse to munch on chips and candy. Even snacks should be considered fuel. These foods can sometimes be the first calories players consumer after a workout, so they need to be filled with nutrition to support recovery. According to The Seattle Times, the Seahawks can count on jerky and granola bars for snacks. These foods offer a balance of carbohydrates and protein the athletes need to repair ailing muscles. The story also said team chef Mac McNabb doesn’t offer any fried items, soda, or other junk foods, with the exception of fresh cookies on Thursdays.

8. Seafood is the new steak

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All the hoopla about eating more fish hasn’t done much to convince the general public to eat more of the stuff, but NFL players have completely embraced the protein. Washington Redskins chef Jon Mathieson told Edible Richmond, “I never thought these guys would eat as much fish as they do.” According to the piece, the players sometimes scarf 300 pounds of seafood a week.

Though players used to get their protein from beef, fish is almost on equal footing. A 3-ounce serving of top sirloin steak contains almost 26 grams of protein while salmon is just behind at about 22 grams for the same portion. More importantly, the salmon packs a huge dose of heart-healthy fats. If you want to get as fit as your favorite players, more seafood could be the key.

6 High-Fat Foods That Are Good for You

It wasn't long ago that we blamed fat for all of life's ails. Sure, fat can make you gain weight and contribute to chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer and stroke. But not all fats were created equal. In fact, as you've probably heard,certain types of fat are actually good for your health.

So which "fattening" foods should you be eating?

“While it’s a good idea to limit saturated fats (found in cheese, meat, butter, sausage and desserts), you need fat to aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, E, D and K,” says Registered Dietitian Patricia Bannan, author of Eat Right When Time Is Tight. ABONUS: Fat makes you feel full for longer periods of time.

The key is focusing on the good fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated) and eliminating the bad fats (trans and saturated fats). Here are a few of Bannan’s favorites:

Avocados
Sure, avocados are high in fat—perhaps that’s why they’ve earned the nickname “butter pears”—but most of the fat in an avocado is monounsaturated, the heart-healthy kind that actually lowers bad cholesterol. In recent years, the U.S. government has even revised its official nutrition guidelines to urge Americans to eat moreAVOCADOS. Moderation is still key, since one medium avocado boasts 30 grams of fat. Try substituting avocadoes for butter or cream cheese, or replace the mayo on your sandwich with avocado slices.

Eggs
Eggs are an inexpensive and easy source of protein. People often think eggs whites are a healthier option than whole eggs because they contain less fat, and while it’s true that the egg yolk contains some fat, it’s also packed with important nutrients. One whole egg contains 5 grams of fat, but only 1.5 grams are saturated. Whole eggs are also a good source of choline (one egg yolk has about 300 micrograms of choline), an important B vitamin that helps regulate the brain, nervous system and cardiovascular system. And while there’s a lot of buzz about the cholesterol in eggs, research has linked moderate egg consumption to improved heart health.

Olive Oil
Olive oil is commonly used in the Mediterranean diet (one of the most recommended for a healthy lifestyle), and we’ve all heard that olive oil reduces the risk of heart disease, blood pressure and certain types of cancer. However, it still packs 100 calories per tablespoon, so moderation is important if you’re watching your weight. A recent study published in Neurology found that cooking with heart-healthy olive oil and using it for salad dressing may cut stroke risk.

Nuts
Your best bets for nutrition are almonds, walnuts and pistachios. Almonds are the richest in vitamin E; walnuts contain a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid; and pistachios have lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids important for eye health. Research shows nut eaters are generally thinner, less likely to develop type 2 diabetes and have a reduced risk of heart disease to boot. In terms of getting the most from your snack, pistachios win hands down. One of the lowest-fat nuts, you get 49 pistachios in a 1-ounce serving, compared to 23 almonds or 14 walnut halves.

Nut Butter
Nut butters are another source of healthy fats, and peanut butter is just the beginning—try almond or cashew butter if you’re feeling adventurous. All of these buttersBOOST protein and fiber intake. Just be forewarned, some are high in added sugars. Choose all-natural nut butters with as few ingredients as possible. Bannan likes almond butter jars that contain “dry roasted almonds” as the sole ingredients. Some may also contain sea salt.

Fatty Fish
The term “fatty fish” may sound unappealing, but actually, these are the healthiest and most delicious foods from the sea. Oily fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel and trout are full of omega-3 fatty acids—good fats, unlike the bad saturated fat you find in most meats. According to the American Heart Association, people should eat at least two servings weekly of lake herring, lake trout, mackerel, salmon, sardines or tuna for the healthy omega-3 fats they contain. 

PROTEIN WONDER FOOD

The benefits of hemp are boundless. This wonderfood balances your hormones, nourishes your skin and hair, calms post-workout inflammation, and relaxes your muscles. Once a mainstay crop in the United States with the Declaration of Independence drafted on hemp, and early American flags were made of this durable, plant-based fabric.

In the early 1900s, one report declared 25,000 uses for hemp, everything from ropes and sails to linens and food. But its confusion with marijuana, also in the cannabis family, led to an American campaign that ultimately made it impossible for U.S. farmers to capitalize on this important agricultural crop.

Bringing it back could prove to be a potent economic booster that could helpCLEAN UPagriculture (hemp grows readily without toxic pesticides) while providing healthy, low-impact protein to millions.

So just to be clear: Although hemp plants resemble pot plants, hemp is not marijuana and will not cause false positives on drug tests, explains Michael Fata, CEO and cofounder of Manitoba Harvest, a leader in the hemp food movement. 

Instead of getting hung up on the drug myth, Fata would much rather talk about hemp's amazing healing powers. Tasting like what he calls a cross between a sunflower seed and a pine nut, shelled hemp seeds and hemp protein powders are pleasant-tasting protein powerhouses, containing all 10 essential amino acids to form a complete vegetarian protein source. Hemp is better for the planet, too.

According to Environmental Working Group, animal proteins can create up to 20 times the climate-damaging emissions compared to plant-based protein sources.

With U.S. demand up 62 percent in the first quarter of 2013, hemp is turning out to be quite a trendy little seed. Industry data shows hemp is growing at a rate of 115 percent, compared to an 84 percent increase in chia seeds. It's a powerhouse in the protein powder category, too. As whey and soy proteins are slowing, hemp protein powder sales are up 30 percent in the first part of 2013.

Ready to give hemp a try? Consider these facts.

• It's one of the world's most potent natural sources of magnesium—a mineral required for a healthy metabolism and one that as much as 75 percent of the U.S. population doesn't get enough of
.
• It's a key food for exercisers, thanks to its levels of iron and phosphorus, important trace elements thatMAXIMIZE oxygen levels
It contains twice the protein found in chia and flax seeds.
• 
It's naturally non-GMO.

Here's how to work hemp into your diet:

• Sprinkle shelled hemp hearts on salads, yogurt, and cereal

• Add shelled hemp seeds to soup for a creamy, nondairy proteinBOOST
• 
Toss protein powder into smoothies and mix with any ingredients that would be complemented by hemp's subtle, nutty flavor

REASONS FAT IS YOUR FRIEND

For most of us, when we think of fat, we imagine the disgusting, vexatiousCELLULITE that seems to cling to our bodies like koala bear to a tree.
 
Poor, fat. It’s had a bad rap for decades. Nonetheless, fat is undeserving of such criticism—if we are referring to healthy fats. In recent years, the importance of healthy fats to build and sustain our health has become increasingly emphasized.
 
Need more convincing? Here are five reasons you should add foods such as avocados, coconut oil, and those nastyFISH OIL PILLS to your shopping cart:
 

1. Fatty Acids: healthy fats provide essential fatty acids, which are necessary for many bodily functions such as transportation of cholesterol in the blood, fighting infections, balancing the immune system, forming hemoglobin, etc.  
2. Fat is energy! It powers the majority of our life functions. When we are deficient in healthy fats, our energy decreases.
3. Fat helps maintain healthy skin. Our body cells must contain fat to function, and this helps better control what goes in and out of our skin cells.
4. Fat is essential for the absorption of vitamins K, A, E, D, etc. Fat helps move these vitamins so they are properly dispersed.
5. Fat helps produce steroid hormones, which instigate and regulate our different body systems.

 
Eliminating healthy fats is not the key to effectiveWEIGHT LOSS. However, such eliminations will cause a decline in one’s overall health. Give your body what it needs—healthy fats, and your body will serve you in return.

NATURAL ANTIBIOTICS THAT RIVAL THE PRESCRIPTION KIND

Since the 1940‘s antibiotics have been internally embedded as conventional medicine amongst the medical profession for a resolution to bacterial infections. Although antibiotics have had their place in society, we need to ask ourselves; are antibiotics really worth the underlying risks?

Studies show that even short-term use of a course of antibiotics can effectively disrupt the body’s natural gut flora and potentially lead to a spread of antibiotic resistance. This is a concern because bacterial resistance  cannot be controlled or killed by antibiotics. Studies show that the organisms in which are responsible for diarrhea, urinary infection and sepsis are resistant to older antibiotics. 
 
So why should you care? 
It is important to be aware of the effects antibiotics have on our bodies, as it has become a public health burden on us in more ways than one. It is not just the medical industry that capitalizes on the use of antibiotics, but our global food system as well.  

Take the agricultural use of antibiotics, that are injected into animals or animal feed and are then sold to us for consumption. Antibiotic residue can linger in these meat and dairy products. You can find out more on how to avoid exposure to these forms of harmful chemicals in our foods here. 

Another common misuse of antibiotics is inadequate diagnostics. Have you ever gone to the doctors when you were unwell and have been prescribed antibiotics, despite not being given aDIAGNOSIS yet? According to the CDC, a comparative report on antibiotic prescribing revealed that some doctors were over-prescribing more so than others. 

Due to such over-consumption, treating infections with antibiotics today unfortunately, leads to more damage than good, to our immunity and digestive systems. 

Luckily, we have the choice for our health to be in our own hands. In mother nature’s hands. Here are 7 of our favorite Natural Antibiotics that have been around years, with no negative side-effects. 

1. Raw Honey

Raw Honey is still the best antibiotic with many healing benefits. It fights infections on multiple levels and does not lead to resistant bacteria. Manuka Honey is another delicious multi-purpose wonder! Again, naturally containing antibacterial, antiseptic and antifungal properties. It can be used as an ointment, topically or can be taken orally for internal health.  

2. Garlic

Garlic is a natural potent antibiotic which helps to clear sinuses. Due to the high levels of sulfur compound and allicin it has the ability to kill various forms of bacteria. 

3. Echinacea 

ECHINACEA is a superfood herb that is a natural antibiotic and immune stimulator. It helps the body fight off cold and flu like symptoms.  

4. Grape-Fruit Extract

Grape-fruit extract (GSE) is another super healer! With its powerful combination of antifungal, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.  GSE extract can act as a natural preservative and disinfectant, which contains antibacterial activity against foodborne pathogens.  To learn more, Check out The Many Great Healing Benefits of Grape-fruit Extract. 

5. Fermented Foods

Fermented Foods such as Sauerkraut and Kimchi have been around for centuries. 
They are full of health-promoting properties and rich in probiotics for gut health and digestion. Learn how to make your own Fermented Foods or try our Simple Sauerkraut Recipe!

6. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is quite possibly one of Mother Nature's greatest gifts.  
Not only can it be used in delicious recipes, it is also great for the skin and, due to its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties it makes a perfect oil for oil pulling. Find out 10 More Reasons why you should be using Coconut Oil! 

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is natural bacteria fighting agent with multiple proven benefits. It can be used as probiotic as well as a disinfectant! Not convinced? 

FASCINATING HEALTH BENEFITS OF MACADAMIAS

Macadamias are an underestimated nutrient-powerhouse. A rich source of essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, iron, B vitamins, and folate. They also have a little protein and pack a healthy dose of good fats and antioxidants. 

Commonly featured in more indulgent desserts rather than thought of as an everyday health food, macadamias are often skipped for almonds and cashews for a daily snack. But these 10 fascinating health benefits of macadamias will show you why they're worthy of a regular spot in your healthy nut rotation:

1. Helps To Keep Your Heart Healthy!

These nuts are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats which are said to be cardioprotective by reducing cholesterol level and help to clean the arteries. Macadamia also lowers the level of triglycerides, which is a kind of body fat and reduces the risk of coronary disease.

2. They Fight Free-Radical Damage Leading To Cancers
Another health benefit of macadamia comes from their high flavonoid content. Flavonoids, which are found naturally in these plants help to prevent cells from damage and protects from environmental toxins. These flavonoids convert into antioxidants in our body. These antioxidants search and destroy free radicals and protect our bodies from various diseases and certain types of cancer which include breast, cervical, lung,PROSTATE and stomach cancer.

3. They Curb Your Appetite!

The fat content of macadamias helps to curb your appetite much longer than a sweet treat. Macadamias are also a source of palmitoleic acid which increases fat metabolism and reduces fat storage -BONUS! You only need a few to feel satisfied as a snack, so despite their price, you won't need many to get a hunger-busting, nutrient-rich fix. 

4. They Strengthen Your Hair, Skin, And Nails

Macadamias are an excellent source of protein, calcium, potassium, dietary fiber and antioxidants. They are also very low in sodium. all of these factors make them a fabulousBEAUTY FOOD, giving your hair and nails a healthy sheen and your skin a nourished glow!

5. Supports Your Gut Health 

That's right, macadamias contain around 7% dietary fiber, and both the insoluble and soluble types, helping to not only promote satiety, but provide roughage sweeping toxins out of the body, and aiding digestion.

6. Strengthens Your Bones

Phosphorus in macadamia plays a variety of roles including bone and teeth mineralization, metabolism, absorption and transportation of nutrients. Calcium also helps in the formation of teeth and bones. Manganese in macadamia helps the body toDEPOSIT new bone tissue so that the skeleton stays strong as you age.

7. They Look After Your Brain And Nervous System

Macadamias contain copper, which helps to make healthy neurotransmitters, the chemicals which our brain cells use to send chemical signals. Copper also helps to ensure proper growth of the body, efficient utilization of iron, proper enzymatic reactions, as well as improved health of connective tissues, hair, and eyes!

8. They're Lower In Inflammation-Causing Omega-6's

Consuming too many omega-6 fatty acids in our diet can be a contributing factor to chronic inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other life-threatening conditions. A handful of nuts a day, or a spread of nut butter in your smoothie is a great way to get added protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals. But most nuts tend to be higher in omega-6 fats than omega-3s, which can tip our body into an inflammatory state if we don’t balance it out with omega-3s from other foods too. Macadamias, on the other hand, are much lower in omega-6s. For example, pecans contain 3.7g per 100g, almonds 3.4g, and cashews 2.2g compared to 0.36g macadamias.

The incidence of heart disease is significantly lower in people who eat nuts regularly (more than five times per week) than in those who eat nuts less than once a week. So why not include some of these nutritious macadamias and start reaping their benefits today!