Nutrition


24
Mar 10

Apple Cider Vinegar – Nature’s Health Elixir

The health benefits of vinegar have not been overlooked by history. Ancient cultures have touted the benefits of apple cider vinegar as a tonic and an elixir.

The health benefits of apples are clear. They are nutrient rich containing dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants without fat or sodium. When raw apple cider vinegar is made, the goodness of the apple is carried over into the vinegar into which it is transformed. Nutrients are preserved during the fermentation process.

Some take apple cider vinegar as a tonic. It provides easily absorb-able forms of pectin, magnesium and minerals. Mix two to three teaspoons of ACV into an 8 ounce glass of pure water. Consume this prior to every meal for the most benefit. When consumed regularly, this tonic will help to maintain the acid/alkaline balance in your system. An alkaline environment is important to retaining good health. It keeps your body balanced.

However, if you are not fond of the idea of consuming a tonic prior to each meal, there are other ways to enjoy apple cider vinegar that will also benefit your health. Instead of other types of vinegar, use it in recipes or homemade salad dressings. I prepare a simple vinaigrette: crush one clove of organic garlic to it add some Himalayan sea salt to taste. Add a squeeze of organic fresh lemon, 3 tablespoons of organic cold pressed extra virgin olive oil, one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and black pepper to taste. Blend together the ingredients with a spoon until well mixed. Pour it over your favorite salad or vegetables.

Apple cider vinegar can benefit us in so many ways. It can improve some common ailments that plague so many of us including: insomnia, weight loss, yeast infections, asthma, fatigue, acne, eczema, fungus, headaches, warts, sore throat, heartburn, ulcers and varicose veins.

It is easy to find apple cider vinegar in health food stores and more and more in supermarkets. As part of a healthy regime, it is an inexpensive ingredient to include in your overall recipe for good health.


2
Mar 10

5 Reasons Protein Isn’t a Concern for Vegetarians

It seems the first thing people complain about when they learn that I’m a vegetarian is that I can’t be eating enough protein.  Where could I possibly get it if I don’t eat meat? Oh…I don’t know, only like a thousand other places.  Here are 5 reasons why getting enough protein is not a problem for vegetarians.

  1. A large amount of protein is actually unhealthy–especially from meat sources
    High protein diets have been linked to health problems in multiple studies.  In addition, high protein diets obtained from meat sources commonly contain a large amount of saturated fats and colesterol.

    “Funded by the National Cancer Institute, the study also associated red meat intake with higher cancer and cardiovascular mortality rates, the two leading causes of death in the U.S.”

    Red Meat Study

  2. Americans eat too much meat already
    Most Americans eat between 1 and 2 times the recommended amount of protein each day.  Protein deficiency is so rare in the US that most physicians wouldn’t even recognize the symptoms.

    “The average omnivore eats twice as much protein as the USDA recommends.”

    Why Americans Should Eat At Least 50% Less Meat

  3. There are plenty of protein sources for vegetarians
    With the rise of imitation meats, it’s easier than ever for a vegetarian to compensate for the lack of meat, even though it’s not really necessary for the sake of protein.  Almost all foods have some protein, so it’s really hard to not get enough each day.

    “I’ve compiled a list of great, enjoyable food sources to meet the daily requirements.”

    Vegetarian Proten

  4. Some vegetarian foods are ‘complete proteins’–mainly quinoa and soy
    Quinoa and Soy are naturally complete proteins, meaning they contain all of the essential amino acids. In addition, many foods are added to processed foods like cereals forming complete proteins by fortifications.

    “The old world grain and super food, quinoa, was believed by the South American Indians to give them super human powers.”

    How to Cook Quinoa

  5. A low protein diet is easier on your organs
    While a low protein diet is probably not something that should be continued long term, it can temporarily reduce the stress on many organs.  A high protein diet can stress the kidneys, so it only makes sense that a low protein diet can be a short term benefit.

    “Low protein diets (4-8% protein) are used routinely to treat patients with liver disease, kidney (renal) failure.”

    Low Protein Diet

So what reasons did I miss?  I’m sure there are a few that somehow I missed.