Couch Workout

By: Marian Hatcher

Juice Combinations

By: Marian Hatcher

Follow these four simple steps to make a flavorful and healthy juice.

STEP1: Pick one item from the SWEET column.

STEP2: Pick one item from the BOLD column.

STEP3: Pick one item from the NEUTRAL column.

STEP4: Juice ingredients in a juicer or a blender.

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  Juice Combinations

  SWEET:
  Helps to balance the bolder flavors of strong vegetables. Examples: Apple, beet, carrot, grapes and melon.
• BOLD:
  Bitter, strong and spicy. Should be tempered by other ingredients. Examples: Cranberry, broccoli, rutabaga, radish and grapefruit.
• NEUTRAL:
  These are neither spicy nor bitter and so work well in variety of combinations. Examples: Fennel, peppers, chard, celery and cucumber.

Ten Best Healing Spices and Herbs

By: Sandra Williams Smith

With thanks to Sumitra Nair of Team iDiva

Turmeric

This golden spice, used in almost every meal in India is very valuable. "It is a very powerful healer. It prevents growth of cancer cells and thus can prevent cancer," says Mumbai-based nutritionist Naini Setalvad. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduces swelling caused due to pain. "It also said to prevent alzhiemers and said to reduce severity of pain caused due to arthritis," says Mumbai-based nutritionist Maithili Pashtekar. This spice also acts as an antioxidant that helps lower cholesterol.

Cinnamon

Often used in coffees and other desserts, cinnamon is said to have the ability to reduce blood sugar levels. "This spice contains antioxidants that help lowering levels of bad cholesterol," says Naini. More good news for women- including this spice in your diet will also ensure less painful cycles.

Ginger

Good ol' ginger candy has always been an instant cure to motion sickness or has curbed a feeling of nausea. The spice does more than that. "It improves your digestive process and prevents stomach disorders like flatulence," says Naini. It is also said to regularize blood flow, thus maintaining your blood pressure.

Basil

Holy basil or tulsi is said to be a great de-stressor as it "reduces levels of serotonin," Maithili says. Try a tea made of basil leaves and ginger for relief from indigestion, headaches and fever. Chewing on leaves of basil could also reduce symptoms of bronchitis and asthma.

Garlic

This condiment lowers your chances of getting cancer. Other than that, according to Naini, "it helps in lowering bad cholesterol and keeping your blood pressure in control." It also has anti viral properties and helps in clearing your sinuses. "It helps to digest iron and protein," says Maithili. Garlic is also a powerful antioxidant that protects your body against damage from free radicals.

Cumin

Cumin powder in water with salt and lemon is probably the best way to curb a diarrhoea attack. "It also acts as a blood purifier and is an excellent remedy for stomach cramps," says Naini. Due to its cooling properties, it is added to most drinks and juices during summer.

Mustard

Mustard seeds is said to curb the growth of cancer cells. "it also has anti inflammatory properties and is said to restore normal sleeping patterns in women with symptoms of menopause," says Maithili. It also reduces severity of asthma and lowers high blood pressure.

Saffron

Saffron is a powerful antioxidant too. "It is said to be an anti-depressant and can cure bladder, liver and kidney disorders," says Naini. A li'l saffron in your tea can relieve you of a cold too. Saffron also has antiseptic and anti inflammatory properties. Rubbing saffron on sore gums can provides relief.

Cardamom

Known as elaichi, this spice is also effective in curing stomach cramps. It is also said to cure other stomach disorders like flatulence and acidity. "It also improves your circulation to your lungs, Maithili says. Boil water and add mint leaves and cardamom to it and have it to cure hiccups, suggests Naini.

Mint

Mint or pudina is known to ease symptoms of the irritable bowel syndrome. It is also known to have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Mint oil when rubbed on your forehead soothes headaches too. Mint paste while applied on pimples and acne can cure it.

Spinal Nerve Function

By: Althea Bommer Ritter

Top 12 Anti-Asthma Foods

By: Laura Farago

There might not be a perfect cure for asthma, but we can find many superfoods with a nutrient profile that is particularly well suited for preventing and alleviating asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing and chest tightness. Let’s take a look at 12 such foods and their asthma fighting qualities.

1. AVOCADOS - is one of the prime source of Glutathione, which has been shown to protect cells against free radical damage and to detoxify foreign substances such as pollutants. Without glutathione, other antioxidants would not be able not function efficiently. Avocados are also a good source of vitamin E, particularly for people whose asthma is linked to a nut allergy (nuts are one of the most common sources of vitamin E). However, if you have been diagnosed with a latex allergy, you may want to be careful with avocados, particularly non-organically grown produce. Many suggests that people who are allergic to latex are often also allergic to avocados and other foods that may contain substances called chitinases. Organically grown avocados not treated with ethylene gas contain lower levels of chitinases.
2. BROCCOLI SPROUTS - are true nutritional treasure and a great addition to your diet if you suffer from asthma. A recent study found that the study participants who ate broccoli sprouts for 3 days had an increase in antioxidant compounds that control the airway inflammation associated with bronchial asthma. The effect was most pronounced in those who ate the most broccoli sprouts. Available at many health food stores and grocery stores, broccoli sprouts make a great addition to salads, soups, salsa-topped dishes, and sandwiches.
3. APPLES - Studies show that apples possess some extraordinary properties that may provide protection against asthma. One study discovered that pregnant women who ate apples protected their child from developing asthma. Another study found that by drinking apple juice daily children could reduce their chance of suffering from wheezing by 50%. These beneficial effects of apples may be linked to their high concentration of bioflavonoids, such as quercetin. Quercetin is known to possess strong anti-histamine, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. When buying apples, be sure to purchase organically grown fruit: together with peaches, conventionally grown apples top the list of fruits that contain the highest levels of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
4. BANANAS - Including bananas in your diet may help you breathe easier. According to a British study, children who ate just one banana a day had a 34% lower chance of developing asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing. The results where not surprising considering that bananas are one of the best sources of pyridoxine, commonly known as vitamin B6. Pyridoxine plays a critical role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), molecules that have been shown to help relax bronchial smooth muscle tissue.
5. GINGER - one of the oldest spices in the world, is well known for its cold treating powers, but it may also help alleviate asthma symptoms. Its asthma fighting properties are thought to be attributable to gingerols, strong anti-inflammatory substances that also give ginger its distinctive flavor. Fresh ginger, which is said to be the most effective form of ginger, is available year round in the produce section of your local supermarket.
6. SPINACH - Popeye was right about one thing: you'd better eat your spinach! The nutritional profile of spinach makes it an excellent health food and an important functional food to be included in any anti-asthma diet. One study with 68,535 female participants found that women with a high intake of spinach had a lower prevalence of asthma. This is not surprising considering that spinach features a host of important asthma preventing nutrients, including beta-carotene (spinach is one of the best sources of beta-carotene there is), vitamin C, vitamin E, and magnesium. It also has a substantial potassium content in proportion to its calorie content: a 100 calorie serving provides about 40% of the reference daily intake for this important anti-asthma mineral.
7. ROSEMARY - It contains rosmarinic acid, that may help alleviate asthma symptoms due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The antioxidant power of rosmarinic acid is believed to be even stronger than that of vitamin E. In addition, rosmarinic acid encourages cells to create prostacyclins, which help keep the air passages of the lungs open and thus promote easy breathing. Rosemary can be used to flavor fish, roast meats, and tomato sauces, but also fruits, especially oranges.
8. SUNFLOWER SEEDS - are brimming of anti-asthma nutrients, as these mild nutty tasting seeds are loaded with vitamin E, potassium, and magnesium. They are also a good source of selenium, with 1 cup providing more than 1/3 of the recommended daily intake for this important mineral. Furthermore, sunflower seeds are among the seeds and nuts that are least likely to cause allergic reactions in people. But, be careful while consuming them, as they are quite calorie-dense.
9. SWEET POTATOES - are one of the oldest vegetables known to man and one of the most nutritious too. Sweet potatoes are one of the foods that are least likely to cause allergic reactions, which is great news since asthma is often linked to allergies. What’s more, sweet potatoes contain plenty of vitamin C and potassium as well as unique root proteins which, according to preliminary studies, may have significant antioxidant properties. The pink, orange, and yellow varieties are also one of the most concentrated food sources of beta-carotene (the more intense the color, the more beta-carotene).
10. KALE - This relatively unknown member of the cabbage family is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and other phytochemicals that have been shown to alleviate symptoms associated with asthma. Not only is kale a great source of vitamin C, it is also one of the most concentrated dietary sources of beta-carotene (kale contains 10 times the beta-carotene of broccoli). Kale can be eaten raw, for example as a substitute for iceberg lettuce in salads. The beautiful green leaves of kale can also be transformed into a savory warm dish by sautéing the leaves and mixing them with chopped onions, crushed garlic and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
11. TURMERIC - a spice that lends its yellow color to curries and many other foods, has long been used in traditional Asian medicine to treat asthma and many other conditions and diseases. In recent years, western medicine has started to pay greater attention to this extraordinary spice. Recent research suggests that turmeric possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties. Although best known for its use in Indian style curries, turmeric can also be used to add flavor and color to fish, seafood, meat, rice, vegetable, and pasta dishes.
12. MUSTARD GREENS - Chock-full of antioxidants and nutrients, mustard greens can make an excellent addition to your diet if you are susceptible to asthma attacks. In addition to being one of the best sources of beta-carotene, they provide a good amount of vitamin C and vitamin E. The nutrients in mustard greens can remove free radicals that cause smooth muscle contraction and airway constriction in people with asthma. Moreover, they may aid in the breakdown of histamine. Mustard greens with their distinctly peppery flavor are available throughout the year and can be found in the produce section of your local supermarket.

Six Air-Purifying House Plants

By: Amy Perrin

1. Bamboo Palm: According to NASA, it removes formaldahyde and is also said to act as a natural humidifier.
2. Snake Plant: Found by NASA to absorb nitrogen oxides and formaldahyde.
3. Areca Palm: One of the best air purifying plants for general air cleanliness.
4. Spider Plant: Great indoor plant for removing carbon monoxide and other toxins or impurities. Spider plants are one of three plants NASA deems best at removing formaldahyde from the air.
5. Peace Lily: Peace lilies could be called the “clean-all.” They’re often placed in bathrooms or laundry rooms because they’re known for removing mold spores. Also know to remove formaldahyde and trichloroethylene.
6. Gerbera Daisy: Not only do these gorgeous flowers remove benzene from the air, they’re known to improve sleep by absorbing carbon dioxide and giving off more oxygen over night.

The Doctrine of Signatures

By: Esther Vasa

God's creation speaks clearly! The Doctrine of Signatures is a profound ancient wisdom. Every fruit and vegetable has a certain pattern that resembles a body organ, and that this pattern acts as a signal or sign as to that fruit or vegetable’s benefit to us.

The Doctrine of Signatures

• Kidney Beans actually heal and help maintain kidney function—and they look exactly like human kidneys
• A Walnut looks like a little brain, a left and right hemisphere, upper cerebrums and lower cerebellums. Even the wrinkles or folds on the nut are just like the neo-cortex. We now know walnuts help develop brain function
• The cross section of a Carrot looks like the human eye. The pupil, iris and radiating lines look just like the human eye. And science now shows carrots greatly enhance blood flow to the eyes and aid in the general function of the eyes
• Celery looks just like bones. Celery specifically target bone strength. Bones are 23 percent sodium and these foods are 23 percent sodium. If you don’t have enough sodium in your diet, the body pulls it from the bones, thus making them weak. Foods like celery replenish the skeletal needs of the body.
• Tomato has four chambers just like the human heart. They are red in color like the blood. All the research shows that tomatoes are indeed pure heart and blood food
• Avocadoes target the health and function of the womb and cervix of the female—they look just like these organs. Avocadoes help women balance hormones, shed unwanted birth weight, and deter cervical cancers. It takes exactly nine months to grow an avocado from blossom to ripened fruit
• Figs are full of seeds and hang in twos when they grow. Figs increase the mobility of male sperm and increase the numbers of Sperm as well to overcome male sterility
• Slice a Mushroom in half and it resembles a human ear. Mushrooms have been found to improve hearing, as mushrooms are one of the few foods that contain vitamin D. This particular vitamin is important for healthy bones, even the tiny ones in the ear that transmit sound to the brain
• Our lungs are made up of branches of ever-smaller airways that finish up with tiny bunches of tissue called alveoli. These structures, which resemble bunches of Grapes, allow oxygen to pass from the lungs to the blood stream. A diet high in fresh fruit, such as grapes, has been shown to reduce the risk of lung cancer and emphysema. Grape seeds also contain a chemical called proanthocyanidin, which appears to reduce the severity of asthma triggered by allergy
• Ginger, commonly sold in supermarkets, often looks just like the stomach. So its interesting that one of its biggest benefits is aiding digestion. The Chinese have been using it for over 2,000 years to calm the stomach and cure nausea, while it is also a popular remedy for motion sickness
• Sweet Potatoes look like the pancreas and actually balance the glycemic index of diabetics.
• Olives assist the health and function of the ovaries
• Grapefruit, Orange and other citrus fruits resemble the mammary glands of the female and help with the movement of the lymph in and out of the breasts

Raise your Serotonin

By: Amy Perrin

Serotonin

• CHOCOLATE: High in magnesium and other 'feel good' nutrients.
• LEAFY GREENS: Energy enhancing
• WALNUTS: Loaded with Omega 3 and other brain nutrients
• EPSOM SALTS: Calming
• WATER: Hydration. Increases energy and lowers stress
• CAYENNE PEPPER: Depression reliever
• BANANA: Helps raise serotonin
• GREEN SMOOTHIE: For an energy zap
• SMILING: Releases happy hormones
• ALMONDS: Brain food and magnesium
• OATS: Eases depression
• NATURE: Spend time in nature
• WALKING: Clears the mind and raises serotonin

"The amino acids tyrosine, phenylalanine and tryptophan are aromatic amino acids that are necessary to produce both serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin is needed for healthy and restful sleep and elevates and stabilizes the mood. Serotonin also helps modulate processes like human sexuality, appetite, and metabolism. Melatonin is important in the regulation of the interior body clock and is a cancer fighter and powerful antioxidant associated with the protection of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. We get these three amino acids by eating healthy foods. Supplements are good to take up the slack until you fix deficiency problems caused by lousy diets." -- Craig Stellpflug

Surge Your Brain Power

By: Esther Vasa

• Almonds: increase blood flow to brain
• Walnuts: high in omega 3
• Blueberries: improve learning & motor skills
• Brussels Sprouts: Tryptophan converts to serotonin
• Broccoli: assists proper brain function
• Cauliflower: assists cleansing white matter in brain and spine
• Ginger: anti-inflammatory may help protect from brain disease
• Apples: power food for mind, emotions, body
• Watermelon: targets brain function
• Cabbage: high intake of Cruciferous vegetables may lower risk of brain, lung & prostate cancer
• Lettuce: increase blood flow & cleanse blood plaque
• Cantaloupe / Rockmelon: supports the brain
• Pine nuts: helps stimulate brain activity

Drink Your Water

By: Esther Vasa

I am not sure whom to give credit for this wonderful chart. This has been floating around among various health groups am in. The message is loud and clear. Drinking water at the correct time maximizes its effectiveness on the human body.

"Up to 60% of the human body is water, the brain is composed of 70% water, and the lungs are nearly 90% water. Lean muscle tissue contains about 75% water by weight, as is the brain; body fat contains 10% water and bone has 22% water. About 83% of our blood is water, which helps digest our food, transport waste, and control body temperature. Each day humans must replace 2.4 litres of water, some through drinking and the rest taken by the body from the foods eaten." (Source: USGS)

Quick Guide for Green Smoothie

 By: Esther Vasa

Natural Remedies Reference

By: Eleanor Suarez

Benefits of Water

By: Elna Botes van Schalkwyk

Water's Role in the Human Body

This is the info my doctor offered about drinking water. Please remember that it must be pure, filtered or RO-water.

Water regulates ALL the functions in the human body. Just a few of the most important functions include the following:

• The flow of blood and lymph through the body
• The functioning of our brains
• The cushioning and regulation of organs
• The transfer and absorption of nutrients into cells and tissues
• The removal of waste out of the cells
• The movement of nerve impulses through the nervous system
• The balance of hormones
• The regulation of body temperature
• The lubrication and cushioning of joints
• Specific Health Benefits of Drinking Water
• As far as I am concerned, EVERY health condition, illness and disease is affected by water, as explained above.

Drinking enough pure water has been shown to help the body heal itself from many sicknesses, including:

• General pain and inflammation in muscles and joints
• Tension headaches and migraines
• Tension headaches and migraines
• Weight loss
• Water retention
• Skin problems, including acne, eczema and psoriasis
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Spinal problems
• Hearing and sight problems
• Dysfunction of the kidney or liver
• Hormonal problems
• Diabetes
• Gall and kidney stones
• Circulation issues
• Cancers
• Heart disease and strokes
• Mental disorders and addictions
• Impaired memory and brain function
• Autoimmune disorders, such as Lupus, fibromyalgia and Multiple Sclerosis.