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Showing posts from June, 2012

Coconut Oil

The coconut provides a nutritious source of meat, juice, milk, and oil that has fed and nourished populations around the world for generations. On many islands coconut is a staple in the diet and provides the majority of the food eaten. Coconut is highly nutritious and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Coconut oil is of special interest because it possesses healing properties far beyond that of any other dietary oil and is extensively used in traditional medicine among Asian and Pacific populations. The coconut palm is so highly valued by them as both a source of food and medicine that it is called "The Tree of Life." Nearly one-third of the world's population depends on coconut to some degree for their food and their economy. Once mistakenly believed to be unhealthy because of its high saturated fat content, it is now known that the fat in coconut oil is a unique and different from most other fats and possesses many health giving properties. It is now gaining long...

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient that is vital to all creatures. Vitamin C is perhaps best known for its ability to strengthen the immune system. But this potent nutrient also has many other important roles that control significant aspects of our health. Along with its immune functions that fight against bacteria, viruses, and infection, vitamin C also serves as an effective antihistamine that will lessen the unpleasant effects of the common cold, including inflammation, stuffy nose and aches. It is also necessary for collagen, the main structural protein found in connective tissue. A healthy dose of vitamin C will protect your body from infection and maintain healthy bones and teeth, as well as quicken the body's ability to repair wounds. Vitamin C is a powerful and effective antioxidant that protects our bodies from free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Excessive oxidative stress can lead to a host of severe medical conditions, such as atheroscler...

Trying to Cut Calories? Try These Substitutions!

Potatoes Craving mashed potatoes? Try using cauliflower instead. Boil cauliflower until tender. Mash using masher for "home style" or use an electric mixer for smooth texture. You may add butter, or milk, skim milk would be best. Season to taste. Chips and Salsa Salsa is a low-calorie snack. However those pesky chips add up. Try using vegetables instead. Cucumbers, celery, zucchini and other vegetables that can be sliced in flat manner work great. Salad Dressing Many people on diets default to choosing salads to cut back on calories. However many do not realize how many calories can be packed into their dressing. Especially a cream based dressing. Try using non-fat cottage cheese. Some brands are more liquid than others. You may need to experiment to find the consistency that you prefer. Another great alternative to salad dressing is salsa! There are a variety of flavors and textures to choose from. You and get chunky or smooth, sweet or spicy, etc. Soft Taco She...