Holistic Eating

10 Easy Steps to fight the Holiday flu , lbs, and blues.

2011-12-16T13:09:00.000-08:00

1. Portion Control
Just because it's delicious doesn't mean you have to pile on the calories. Try to stick to your normal portion size. Did you know that the size of your closed fist is the size your meal should be?

2. Home Made
Instead of picking up desserts at your local market, make them from stretch. When you make your food from scratch you are able to tweak or substitute your recipes.

For example a recipe for chocolate chip cookies called for 2 cups of all purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 egg, 1 cup of margarine, 1 table spoon of vanilla, and a bag of baking chocolate.

A healthier version of this could be an organic and range free egg or egg substitute, 1/2 a cup of natural organic butter, 1/2 a cup of organic coconut oil, Gluten free all purpose "flour" (or whole wheat flour or unbleached all purpose flour), 1 cup of agave or honey or organic granulated sugar (instead of processed white sugar). The substitute for the chocolate could be organic dark chocolate.

3. Always use a plate

Using a plate even for snacks allows your mind to see what your eating as food and not just a light snack. Most holiday snacks are high in calories and fat so a few cookies or a slice of cake should be considered a meal as far as calories go. Once your mind is aware how much your eating it might be easier for it to tell you "I AM FULL!"

4. Nutrition
holiday season is also flu season so nutrition is super important. Fill up on nutritious food before getting to the desert table. Protein, nutritious veggies and fruits should be first.

5. Listen to your body.
Enjoy your meal chew throughly! You might find that you don't want your entire plate of food if you slow down and listen to your body.

6. Move
Don't wait for the new year. It's often harder to go on a "diet" after pigging out and laying about! There is no reason to wait. Make it a new family tradition to go on walks after dinner. If it's too cold out try indoor games that help you and your family move! :) Just dance would be perfect!

7. Holistic.
You maybe think it's hard to eat holistically but its a pretty simple concept... The idea of WHOLE. For example instead of peeling your potatoes when making mashed potatoes keep the skin! The skin has a lot of minerals and fiber! When your eating a whole potato your eating it's whole nutrition :) See it's pretty simple!

8. WATER
I used to end up in the E.R around Jan every year from extreme dehydration. Remember to drink water. Water will help you stay hydrated and healthy. Water helps keep your skin gorgeous and hydrated. If your suffering for ashy or itchy skin you might be dehydrated and no matter what lotion you use you will continue to have this problem. Water is the cure :)

9) Vitamins
During winter most of us lack a lot of the vitamins we get during the summer (Specifically Vitamin D.)
A human gets the vitamins D needed in 5 minutes by just driving or sitting next to a window.... If you are feeling blue or tired you might want to look into vitamins d or multi vitamin supplements. Vitamins are very important during holiday seasons with stress and flu suppressing out immune system.

10) De-stress
Stress can suppress your immune system leaving you vulnerable to common cold or the flu. Stress can also cause extra fat to accumulate around the stomach. Ways to de-stress naturally: Massage, aroma therapy, exercise, warm baths, and meditation. I use lavender oil, warm baths and music (Kelly Sweet, Frank Sinatra, Classic Christmas songs, Medication music).

Update:Clayton Class action Lawsuit and ME

2011-12-02T12:16:00.000-08:00

I just received a claim affidavit form for the class action law suit against CCNH. The claim is for students that were enrolled in July 2010 (Students that graduated or were withdrawn are not eligible for this specific class action settlement).

I understand there are a lot of people hurt and angered by CCNH's actions, but I just want to remind everyone that even if you didn't get a chance to graduate CCNH was the best of it's kind out there and we all learned a lot. I am almost ashamed at how they handled their financials causing the bankruptcy but I did walk away with so much knowledge and confidence in natural and holistic nutrition and medicine. With that said I will be adding my claim to this class action. I feel that CCNH actions in the last month were unethical and irresponsible. My advisor was constantly calling me to enroll for my next class just days before doors closed. Clayton was a great school and I hope that someday they can reopen their doors (with different financial advisors).

I also get a lot of e-mails asking for advice on what to do now, or what school I am enrolled in now.

For me am no longer getting my masters in Holistic Nutrition, but that doesn't mean I am no longer interested. I still research and put all my clayton required nutrition books to work on a daily basis. I am changing my masters to Art/Photography.

I also get asked why there are so little articles this past years.
I have all these ideas on great articles to write and have started a few but this years has been a very hard one for me. I have been very ill and trying to use these holistic techniques. It seems like I give in to western medicine and it just messes me up! So maybe I'll take you on a new journey to healing naturally. I have many things coming soon for my readers. I PROMISE :)

Happy Holidays!
Stay Healthy!
Love,
Cyndi

THIS WEEK!!!!

2011-10-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

BBQ TURKEY BREAST, ON FRESH ITALIAN BREAD AND CILANTRO <3

Lemon and BBQ Pork Chops and Leek/Onion Pork Chops

This was my complete meal. This consisted of bbq pork, leek pork, black bean (made in a tomato based sauce), onions, cilantro, and basil.

Gluten Free Chocolate Cake

I will try to add meals of the week pictures a little more often. If you would like any recipes from the food pictured just request it by commenting below or send me an e-mail with the subject "recipe request"

Natural Soda Review: Switch

2011-10-17T14:05:00.000-07:00

Rating: C

Based on a A-F grade scale.

Cost and where to buy: I purchased the Switched Variety Pack through Amazon.com. The original price was 22.99 for a 24 pack. I paid 19.54 when I subscribed and saved with free shipping.

About the Product: The cans are smaller than normal cans at 8 oz per can. The flavors are strawberry watermelon, lemon lime, orange tangerine, black cherry, Kiwi berry and grape. These sodas are actually carbonated juice. Switch sodas have no added sugar and no artificial flavors. The only flavors I found tolerable was the black cherry and orange tangerine. These sodas are simply too sweet to enjoy. The orange tangerine and black cherry are the only ones I would drink. Although these cans are much smaller then normal I find it extremely hard to finish a can because it is too sweet.

Points to consider: Please keep in mind that the sugar is not added sugar but simply the sugar that comes from the fruit's juice. So although Pepsi and Coke have less than 35grams of sugar the body has an easier way to deal with natural sugars in fruits then added sugar. Also keep in mind that sodas like Pepsi and coke have other chemicals to sweeten the the beverage (High Fructose Corn Syrup).

Who I recommend it to: This would be perfect for a child's birthday party, as children tend to tolerate the super sweet taste. Switch sodas would be a great way to get someone off of the harmful sodas that are easily available. Natural sugars found in fruits help satiate sugar cravings.

Would I buy it again: No. I would not buy this for myself again. I still have a few cans left, that I have for friends and family. I just can't tolerate the super sweet taste.

Hope this article helps you. I will reviewing a few other natural sodas soon.

Review: ReJu By Caci

2011-10-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Better late then never!

In 2008 a few companies sent me products. One of the products was ReJu by Caci.

Re Ju is a very popular anti wrinkle cream that claims to take years off your appearance within two weeks. When I received the product I have to admit I didn't get why a company would send me anti wrinkle product (esp one that is $80 for free). I was only 23 when I received it. I tried it and quickly fell in love with it, I used it mostly as a primer. It made my face look super soft and allowed my make up t give me that porcelain smooth look. If your looking for a great anti wrinkle cream or even primer this works like a miracle. :) .

A special thank you for sending me such a great product.

I give this product an A+! I love it.

Disclaimer: I did not purchase this product. I was not paid or asked to make this review.

For product review or business inquires please contact me at HonnieBabie@gmail.com

Stay Healthy,

Cyndi

Back in the saddle again.

2011-08-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

It’s been some time since I have posted. I was on a doctor regulated starvation diet (literally altered my anatomy) that although helped me loose weight was simply awful for my body… I felt as though I lost my way. Like everything I learned went out the window. So here I am thinner but certainly NOT healthier. My sleeping patterns have worsened. So here I am getting back to me. I feel the best way to get back to me is to get back to this wonderful blog. The idea of finding out more about the foods I eat and their health benefits really helped me lead a healthier life style… So I will be blogging again. Coming soon are the following articles;

A Petition against the regulations of Vitamins.

Benefits of Mango

Review on Re Ju by Caci

The dangers of over the counter sleep aids

Natural remedies for insomnia.

My new website www.HoneyBabie.com will help you keep in touch and informed on what else is going on with me. The website will eventually include an art and accessory store. With hand made items from yours truly.

My new Youtube is HonnieBabie and my e-mail is Honniebabie@Gmail.Com

Stay Healthy,

Cyndi

Kashi Fiber Cookies

2011-03-31T17:39:00.000-07:00

I found such a wonderful little treat to review. :) YAY

I have been looking for ways of adding more fiber to my diet. In my search I found this...A COOKIE.. If you know me I am a cookie monster! I found a great deal on amazon 3 boxes for $8. Not bad!

The taste is something some people who aren used to healthy food would have to get used to. It doesn't taste or feel like a normal cookie. The texture is like a soft, grainy, and dry oatmeal cookie. The dark chocolate taste like it is of good quality... Frankly the cookie taste like a gourmet cookie. It is super filling packing 130 calories. One cookie is more then enough. I am very happy with my purchase.

Here is a picture of the nutritional facts.

Ciao
Cyndi :)

Pumpkin Chocolate Coconut Soup

2010-11-04T16:38:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Chocolate Coconut Soup

3 small pumpkins (or 1 medium)

 1cup apple cider 

¼ cup pumpkin puree

 ¼ cup orange juice 

 1 tablespoon cinnamon 

1 teaspoon allspice 

Unsweetened Dark chocolate chips (to likeing)

Coconut shavings (to liking)

 1/4 cup brown sugar (you do not need to add sugar at all but if you want you can)

teaspoon ground nutmeg 

1 teaspoon ginger 

¼ cup Half and half

½ cup coconut milk

Chop/cut/peel/prepare pumpkin into small chunks, and simmer in the apple cider. When Pumpkin chunks in soft add orange juice, purred pumpkin, all the spices, the half and half, and the coconut milk (cook on low).

When ready to serve add the chocolate chips and coconut shavings on top.

I made this recipe this morning and it is delicious and very nutritious. It taste very good with pumpkin zucchini bread or Chocolate zucchini bread. This soup can be used as a snack or desert. It is very healthy And WLS friendly if you skip the sugar. You really don't need to add the sugar because everything else is sweet.

Cheesecake pumpkin pie

2010-10-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

24-ounce cream cheese
15-ounce can pureed pumpkin
3 eggs plus 1 egg yolk
1/4 cups sugar ( or agave or stevia)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, egg yolk, sugar and the spices. Add flour and vanilla. Beat together until well combined.

Pour into crust. Spread out evenly and place oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let sit for 15 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours.

Zucchini and Pumpkin Muffins

2010-10-24T13:26:00.000-07:00

Trust me this is delicious, I would have this over a cup cake any day.

Ingredients

▪ 3 eggs, lightly beaten

▪ 1/2 cups sugar (this gives each cup cake 4 grams of refined sugar, you can put less or not at all).

▪ 1 cup canned pumpkin (real pumpkin purred)

▪ 1/4 cup butter melted

▪ 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

▪ 3 cups all-purpose flour

▪ 1 teaspoon baking soda

▪ 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

▪ 1/2 teaspoon salt

▪ 2 tablespoon ground cinnamon

▪ 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

▪ 1 teaspoon ground cloves

▪ 1 cup shredded zucchini

▪ 1 cup chopped walnuts

For extra protein 1/4 cup of crushed almonds

You can substitute the sugar with Agave or stevia… You can also make the recipe with no sugar at all. Agave or Stevia are made from plants and are not harmful artificial sweeteners.

I also add dark chocolate chips to my husbands muffins. :)

Directions

In a mixing bowl, combine eggs and sugar. Add pumpkin, butter and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients; gradually add to pumpkin mixture and mix well. Stir in zucchini and nuts. Pour into two greased and floured 9-in. x 5-in. x 3-in. loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45-50 minutes or until breads test done. Cool in pans 10 minutes. Remove to a wire rack.

The Journey Through The Garden: Zucchini

2010-10-03T17:20:00.000-07:00

Vegetable of the month of Sept ZUCHINNI!!!!!

I went to Orr's Market a farmer market a few blocks from my house. I am so excited that there are so many farms near my house... One of the many delicious things I picked up was a zucchini! I made my husband a zucchini lasagna, I made pumpkin/ zucchini bread and dark chocolate chip pumpkin/zucchini muffins. Everything is delicious!

Nutritional Content: per 135g

• Vitamin C: 11 mg

• Protein: 1.4g

• Carbohydrates: 3.6g

• Fiber: 1.5g

• Total fat: 0.17g

Health Benefits:

• Promotes eye health.

• Promotes weight loss (because of its low calories)

• helps to cure asthma

• Prevents disease like scurvy

• Lowers high homocysteine levels.

• Prevents the risk of having MS.

• Promotes over all good Health

• Protect against colon cancer.

http://www.skinnytaste.com/2009/02/zucchini-lasagna.html

http://whynoteat.in/breads/gluten-free-zucchini-bread/

I have my own alterations for these recipes which I'll post soon!

The journey Through The Garden: Cabbage

2010-08-24T14:47:00.000-07:00

The Journey Through The Garden:Cabbage

For any of you just tuning in. every month for a year i will be trying a vegetable, or fruit (maybe herb as well) that i have never had as an adult. I will research and take you with me on my experiences ( through videos, blogs, vlogs, and articles) . This month I choose Cabbage.

I have to admit the idea of eating cabbage, made me want to cry, but I had to have it. Whether I liked it or not, because I have an ulcer.

While researching how to naturally heal my ulcer I came across hundreds of articles, studies, and reviews of the wonderful benefits of cabbage.

Let me just tell you that after just a few bowls of Cabbage (and many cups of ginger tea) I am no longer in pain, and my ulcer is almost healed.

Health benefits of Cabbage:

-Helps detoxify and cleanse your body
-Promote Gastrointestinal Health
Peptic Ulcer Treatment
Protective against Alzheimer's Disease
Reduces chances of cancer; especially lung, colon, breast, ovarian and bladder cancer.
Promotes weight loss.

SIMPLE CABBAGE SOUP RECIPE!

I looked up many versions of cabbage soup but ended up making my own…

This made for a large soup that could probably feed 6 people or more.

The ingredients are

3 large carrots

1 large cabbage

3 green onions

1 large onion

2 chicken breast

1- green pepper

4 potatoes

3 blocks of chicken bullion

1 lemon

1 lime

Water

(just cut up all the ingredients and add them to a pot of water and chicken bullion. It should take an 1.5 hours to be made.

The Journey Through The Garden: Spaghetti Squash

2010-07-25T13:06:00.000-07:00

This month’s journey through the garden brings us, Spaghetti squash,

I am not a big fan of spaghetti of any kind, and so I wasn’t too much of a fan of Spaghetti squash. I do believe that this is one of the best ways to get children to eat vegetables. It looks just like angel hair spaghetti but has all the health benefits of winter squash. This should def be a staple of our diet… Spaghetti Squash taste a lot like spaghetti (pasta) except it has a lot more flavor. It has that nutty flavor that most winter squashes have.

Dish the fattening and allergy forming pasta and bring in the spaghetti squash!

Spaghetti squash health benefits consist of

- Promote Optimal Health

- Support’s Men’s health

-Supports Lung Health

- Helps Prevent Birth Defects and Heart Attack and Support Colon Health

Peppermint Tea

2010-06-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

My new found obsession is tea! All teas... Did I mention I love herbal teas? Especially peppermint tea. The smell of Peppermint tea reminds me of christmas candy canes :). Peppermint tea is a brown tea, that taste delicious. Add a little peppermint candy to your tea and you have refreshing and tasty drink, that leaves you feeling relaxed yet energized...

The health benefits of peppermint

• Peppermint tea treats irritable bowel syndrome

• Peppermint tea eases nausea and vomiting

• Peppermint tea controls flatulence and diverticular disorders

• Peppermint tea improves digestion and reduce heartburn

• Peppermint tea dissolves gallstones

• Peppermint tea reduces the severity of herpes outbreaks

• Peppermint tea fights bad breath.

• Peppermint tea controls muscle aches and chronic pain

• Peppermint tea clears congestion and cough related to colds and allergies

• Peppermint tea controls mild asthma

Peppermint tea fights stress

The Journey Through The Garden: Papaya

2010-06-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

PAPAYA

As you all my know, I am focusing my summer on learning the habits I need to get fit. Nutrition has a lot to do with this journey of mine. Everyday I am trying new things. I had fish this month and loved it. And been trying new cuisines as well. It is quit exciting, but the food I want to talk to you about is papaya.

I was having a fruit salad and couldn’t recognize this one fruit. I had never tasted this fruit before but it was delicious. It was very sweet and cool. I found out that this deliciously sweet fruit was papaya.

Whole foods describes papaya’s as, “Deliciously sweet with musky undertones and a soft, butter-like consistency.

And Christopher Columbus called it the fruit of angels.

Health Benefits of Papayas

- Protects against heart disease

- Protects against digestive health

- Helps the immune system

- Protects against muscle degeneration

- Protects against rheumatoid arthritis

- Promotes Lung Health

- Prevents Prostate cancer

The Journey Through The Garden: Acorn Squash

2010-05-25T14:28:00.000-07:00

Find this recipe on goodhousekeeping.com

My Journey Through The Garden.

For the next year (every month) I will try a fruit or vegetable I have never eaten in my adult life. I will write an article on each food’s taste, health benefits, and my experience. I will also makes videos of some of the more exciting experiences, for example; if I am going to have to travel to a farmers market to buy it or if I make a recipe. I will even record when I am scared to try something (yeah you will get to see me freak out over trying new things).

For those of you who know me, this is a big deal. I hate trying new foods. Here we go!

May 2010 is… ACORN SQUASH

I picked out an acorn squash at my local grocery store when I was purchasing the ingredients for Butternut Squash & beef stew. It just called out to me, and it had a sticker on it with simple recipe (slice in ½ and microwave, add brown sugar, and cinnamon). I tried it without the brown sugar or cinnamon.

Two weeks went by before I even considered trying it… It is now one of my favorite foods!

Heath Benefits of Acorn squash are similar to that of a butternut squash.

-Promotes optimum health

-Promotes men’s health

-Promotes lung health

-Prevents birth defects

-Prevents heart attacks

-Supports a healthy colon

False and Deadly Accusations: Dr. Wakefield gets license revoke.

2010-05-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

An article review:

Wow, the pharmaceutical Industry will stop at nothing, to get their money!!! Statements and actions like this (in the article linked below) stating false accusations about a doctor who has found correlation's between vaccinations and autism are not only wrong but deadly... All this even after evidence has been presented against vaccinations.

Vaccines are dangerous, and harmful containing chemicals that you would never let your babies near. There are many studies that show this... One of the harmful chemicals you might know is mercury.

You are asked to stay away from mercury while pregnant yet newborns and pregnant women get multiple vaccinations. Where is the logic?

So if there is a chance that your get a flu or your baby gets Autism (or even your baby gets the flue or Autism), which one would you choose?

For me it's a no brainer, it is easy to treat a flu but the heart ache caused by Autism is tougher battle to take on... And if your are all about Western Medicine chances are you will never find a cure.

Link to article:
http://www.aolhealth.com/2010/05/24/uk-bans-doctor-who-linked-autism-to-vaccine/?icid=main%7Cmain%7Cdl1%7Clink3%7Chttp://www.aolhealth.com/2010/05/24/uk-bans-doctor-who-linked-autism-to-vaccine/

For a list of ingredients of each vaccination please click the link below:
http://www.rense.com/general59/vvac.htm

The Health Benefits of Artichokes.

2010-05-11T09:28:00.001-07:00

Baked Risotto

The Health Benefits of Artichokes

I was inspired by a friend to post. She had artichokes for the first time and was curious to know how healthy this delicious treat was. For the record I have never tried artichokes but after the description of it’s wonderful taste I am very tempted. My friend describes it as a delicious “earthy” taste.

Nutrients in Artichokes

Artichokes are an excellent source of dietary fiber, magnesium, chromium, vitamin C, folic acid, biotin, manganese, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin A and potassium.

The Health Benefits;

- Lowers Cholesterol

- Relieves IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)

- Relives Dyspepsia

- Diabetes

- Cures Hangovers- here is one my friends will love.

All pictures are of the artichokes recipes are from:

http://www.phamfatale.com

Please find the recipes on the links above.

Cyndi's Top Ten Healthiest Foods

2010-02-26T14:31:00.000-08:00

This list is based on health beifits, taste, and afordability.

1: Broccoli
The vegetables that are part of the brassia family such as broccoli are an excellent sources of isothiocyanates. “Isothiocyanates fight cancer by neutralizing carcinogens… They also reduce their poisonous effects and stimulate the release of carcinogen killers, speeding up their removal from the body” (Bowden, 2007, p 24).
Broccoli also has antioxidant properties, specifically indole-3-carbino which can protect against carcinogenic effects of pesticides and toxins (Bowden, 2007, p 25). Broccoli contains sulforaphane which “increases the activation of enzymes known as phase 2 enzymes which help fight carcinogens” (Bowden, 2007, p 25). Broccoli is also one of the foods least contaminated by pesticides.
One cup of broccoli “contains more than 28 g of protein, 25 g of fiber, 288 mg of potassium, 48 g of calcium, 81 mg of vitamin c, plus folate, magnesium, phosphorus, beta-carotene, vitamin A and 1,277 mcg of the superstars of the eye nutrition, lutein and zeaxanthin” (Bowden, 2007, p 25).
Broccoli is very inexpensive and can be eaten raw or lightly cooked; alone or in combination with other food.
2: Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the best fruits. They have anti-aging properties because they are packed with antioxidants. Blueberries have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is part of every major disease like, “Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, diabetes, and heart disease…” (Bowden, 2007, p 101).
Bowden states that blueberries keep your memory sharp. Blueberries help fight against cardiovascular disease, they taste great and cost approximately $4 per container. I like to eat my blueberries in a milk shake with cranberries, bananas, strawberries and a little bit of spinach
3: Spinach
Spinach is one the best sources of vitamin K which helps get minerals to the bone (Bowden, 2007, p 60). Spinach also has a good amount of calcium, vitamin A, folic acid, manganese, magnesium, vitamin C, iron and an effective anti-inflammatory called quercetien (Bowden, 2007, p. 60). Spinach has many compounds that help fight aging and cancer. Spinach also helps reduce inflammation in the brain. It has lutein which protects against eye diseases and vision loss.
Baby spinach is my favorite. A large bag can be bought for $2. Bowden recommends adding a little olive oil so that the lutein can be absorbed.
4: Flaxseed Oil/Flaxseeds
Flaxseed and Flaxseed oil is one of the best sources of Omega-3. The body does not produce alpha-linolenic acid (Omega-3), which is why it is considered an essential nutrient.
Flaxseed also contains omega-6 and omega-9s. They protect against cancer “like breast cancer, uterine and prostate cancers” (Bowden, 2007, p. 304).
In four table spoons of flaxseed oil there are 6 g of protein and 8 g of fiber. Flaxseed also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Bowden states that “flaxseed promotes cardiovascular and colon health, can boost immunity, promotes healthy skin and helps stabilize blood sugar” (Bowden, 2007, p. 305).
I like milled flaxseed, especially on steamed green beans with lemon juice. Milled flaxseed is affordable and costs approximately $3 a box.
5: Butternut Squash
Bowden states that “[b]utternut squash is an absolute vitamin A giant… (Bowden, 2007 p. 62). Butternut squash contains a high amount of “both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene, which has many benefits of its own” (Bowden, 2007 p. 62).
Unlike the other squashes the butternut has a good amount of beta-cryptoxanthin, a carotenoid that may lower the risk of developing lung cancer (Bowden, 2007 p. 62). According to Bowden the “Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention followed more than 63,000 people in China and found that those eating the most cryptoxanthin rich foods had a 27 percent lower risk for lung cancer” (Bowden, 2007 p. 62).
My favorite way to eat it is by making it in a beef stew. It is very affordable; a butternut squash is about $2-3.
6: Cinnamon
My favorite spice is cinnamon, it can lower blood sugar without “imposing toxic cost on the body” (Bowden, 2007 p. 278). A new phytochemical in cinnamon has been identified as chalcome polymers. “Cinnamon also contains anthocyanins which improve capillary function” (Bowden, 2007 p. 278). Cinnamon can also stop ulcers, relieve nausea, gas, reduce blood sugar, bad cholesterol, and blood pressure and increase the blood flow to the stomach. Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant. Bowden states that “cinnamon can help with pain and joint stiffness in muscles and joints “(Bowden, 2007 p. 278). Cinnamon costs approximately $4 a bottle or $3 a bundle and can be used to flavor numerous dishes.
7: Almonds
Research has shown that almonds can help weight loss and reduce heart disease risk. “In a meta-analysis of seven almond studies, the results showed a 5.3 to 7.2 percent reduction in total cholesterol and a 6.8 to 10 percent reduction in LDL cholesterol…” (Bowden, 2007 p. 147). Almonds contain 6 grams of protein, 38 grams of dietary fiber, 80 mg of calcium, along with “phosphorous…vitamin E and…an excellent source of magnesium” (Bowden, 2007 p. 148).
Almonds are $6 a bag or more. I picked almonds over the other nuts and seeds because they are not only highly nutritious but taste and smell great.
8: Leeks
Regular consumption of leek reduces the risk of strokes, cardiovascular problems and prostate and colon cancer (Bowden, 2007 p. 48). Research suggests that leeks prevent macular degeneration, the number one cause of blindness in adults (Bowden, 2007 p. 48).
Leek also lowers LDL cholesterol. According to Bowden, leeks are a good source of the carotenoids lutein and zeaxathin, which are a good for the health of our eyes. Some of the many nutrients in leek are “fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, vitamin K and more than 1,400 IUs of vitamin A” (Bowden, 2007 p. 48).
Leeks are very inexpensive; they usually cost $1 a leek. They’ve become popular due to the leek soup diet which emphasizes leek’s diuretic properties to help people lose water weight.

9: Sweet Potatoes
Bowden states that “sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A and hearty healthy potassium and they even have calcium. The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry has “found an extract from a baked sweet potato has chemopreventive (cancer-fighting) properties” (Bowden, 2007 p. 64). Sweet potato also has quercetin. Quercetin is a very powerful “anti-inflammatory, and chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant” (Bowden, 2007 p. 64).
People who are over weight or need to control their sugar intake need to be careful because sweet potatoes run 16 and 20 in glycemic load.
Sweet potatoes are a decent value at approximately $2 per pound and can be eaten in a large variety of ways. My favorite is to eat them in the same way as mashed potatoes.
10: Avocado
Avocados reduce the risk of cancer and diabetes and lower cholesterol because of a monounsaturated fat called oleic acid. They are also great for the eyes, heart and skin. “In research at the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Socailin Mexico, forty-five volunteers who ate avocados everyday for a week experienced an average 17 percent drop in total blood cholesterol” (Bowden, 2007 p. 97).
Avocados contain a lot of fiber, about 11-17g per avocado. They also have potassium, folate, vitamin A, beta-carotene and beta cryptoxanthin (Bowden, 2007 p. 98). Avocados are eaten raw, they taste great, especially coupled with meat or in salads and guacamole. They cost $1.50 to under a dollar per avocado depending on the time of year.

Reference
Bowden, J. (2007). The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth. Beverly, MA: Fair Winds Press.

Ask me anything

2010-01-28T14:40:00.000-08:00

http://www.formspring.me/HolisticCyndi

Squash: A Nurtitional Power House.

2010-01-23T16:27:00.000-08:00

Butternut Squash and Beef Stew

a brothy version of the butternut squash and beef stew

butternut squash seeds roasted with olive oil and a pinch of salt

a beefier butternut squash and beef stew

Hey meat lovers looking for a yummy healthy stew to keep you warm on these cold winter nights?

The aroma that came from cooking this dish was one that I had never smelt before. It was heaven, and when I tasted it, it was like nothing I have ever had. I felt like I was a chef at a five star restaurant, watching my dish get a 5 star rating.

All of these ingredients are very healthy and make for a delicious stew. Squash is a great source of natural folate, which is especially good for pregnant women. Squash also helps fight against birth defects, promotes overall good health and much more ( look below for the list).

Oh and don't throw away the seeds, butternut seeds make for a perfect snack that can be cooked just like pumpkin seeds and are one of the best foods to prevent prostate cancer.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 pounds stew beef
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cooking wine
• 1 pound butternut squash, trimmed and cut
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes
• 3 to 4 cups water (add a chicken boullion for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped flat-leaf parsley

Directions
1. heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, rosemary, and sauté until the onions are tender, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the beef in salt and pepper and flour, and turn the heat to high.
4. Cook until the beef is browned.
5. Add the wine. Stir up all the brown bits off the bottom of the pan.
6. Add the butternut squash and tomatoes and stir to combine.
7. Add water over the beef and squash. ( or beef broth).
8. Bring the stew to a boil over high heat, and then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
9. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley.

If you don’t know how to cut butternut squash click on the link bellow:
http://www.chow.com/stories/11338

Health benefits of squash:

• Promotes Optimal Health
• Supports Men's Health
• Promotes Lung Health
• Helps Prevent Birth Defects
• Heart Attack Preventive
• Supports Colon Health

Just a small amount of squash packs a lot of fiber, perfect for your daily fiber intake. The author of 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth states that butternut squash " is an absolute vitamin A giant, weighing at a whopping 22,868 IUs per cup... Butternut is unique among the squashes in that it has substantial amount of beta-crypoxathain, a carotenoid that may lower the risk of developing lung cancer" ( Jonny Bowden, 2007,pg.62).

Stay Healthy,
Cyndi

Naturally heal arthritis

2010-01-13T00:41:00.000-08:00

Help heal your rheumatoid arthritis.

It is important to know what you’re suffering from. The word 'arthritis' means 'inflammation of the joints'. It is derived from two Greek words: athron, meaning joints; and itis, meaning inflammation. Arthritis occurs in various forms for example, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease which usually occurs in the older age-group. Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious disease which affects not only the joints of the fingers, wrists, hips, knees, and feet, but also the muscles, tendons and other tissues of the body.

In studies done to see what can naturally heals arthritis the following foods and vitamins have been clearly identified.

Keep in mind that the body is as healthy as the foods we put into it. Thus a balanced diet is essential to our health.

Omega Complete or Omega 3-6-9

Omega rich foods include seafood such as fish.

Carotene:

include: winter squash, pumpkin, persimmons, papaya, tangerines, red peppers, corn, oranges and apricots.

Vitamin C

Like oranges, strawberries,

Extra virgin olive oil (good to add a little to your salad)

Selenium : Some of the best foods for selenium: Brazil nuts, tuna (to avoid mercury, buy canned light tuna), crab, oysters, tilapia, pasta (whole-wheat), lean beef, cod, shrimp, whole grains, turkey and wheat germ.

Bioflavonoid: blackberries, black currants, blueberries, eggplant, elderberries, raspberries, cherries, boysenberries, red/black grapes, strawberries and plums

Vitamin C, E, D and Zinc.

These are some vitamins that are very important for everyone but especially for those who have arthritis, because these vitamins directly help heal your bones.

Green tea

Green tea is considered effective for treating arthritis conditions because it is has antioxidants. Expert’s claim that effective compounds like flavonoids come alive in the green tea leaves when boiled or steamed. These antioxidant compounds are also found in fresh fruits and vegetables.

Foods to Avoid if you have arthritis

Some of the food groups that are suspected of causing pain are the nightshade group. These are as follows,

White potatoes
Tomatoes
Eggplant
Bell peppers
Red meat
Lemons
Grapefruit
Corn
Wheat
Rye
Milk
Eggs
Coffee
Sugar
Cheese

Dr. Nancy Snyderman states, “Some foods may be worth giving up, even without an allergy. Meat contains a type of fat that stimulates the production of inflammatory agents in your body. Adopting a vegetarian diet may help. Patients with RA put on a vegetarian diet showed improvement within a month. A vegan diet may be the most helpful. For some people, giving up dairy products was helpful.” (http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.com/foods-arthritis.html)

Other alternatives that help

Reiki
Massage
Acupuncture

The Digestive System

2010-01-01T01:37:00.000-08:00

THE FUNCTIONS OF THE DIGESTIVE TRACT

Your digestive tract is a system that has many functions. Its primary function is to turn food into the energy you need to survive and package the residue for waste disposal. There are many parts to the digestive system. Your mouth is the first part to the system, than your esophagus, followed by your stomach, small intestine, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, colon, rectum and anus.

There are many causes and contributions to an unhealthy digestive tract. Below you will find a list of a few of them.

Poor eating habits
Poor quality food
Stress

(Gladstar, 2008, p. 93).

There are many indications of an unhealthy digestive tract:

Sluggish elimination of waste “Sluggish bowl movements”
Gas
Poor assimilation of nutrients.

(Gladstar, 2008, p. 93)

VITAMINS, PROTIENS & FATS

VITAMINS: Vitamins, proteins, and fats are an essential part of a balanced diet and can help the digestive tract function in a healthy way. However, it is unnecessary to take vitamin supplements if you are eating a balanced diet. Michael Tierra believes that “most deficiencies are caused by a breakdown of physical metabolism rather than a particular nutrient missing from the food we eat” (Tierra, 1998, p. 61).

PROTEIN: Protein is very important for the body and can be found in food such as meat, eggs and dairy. Protein has two important functions. One of the functions is to repair damaged tissues and cells through there normal break down. The other function of protein is to stimulate and maintain bodily metabolism (Tierra, 1998, p. 51).

FAT: Fats often get a bad reputation for being a primary cause of obesity and thus have been considered unfavorable and unwanted. However, unsaturated fats and oils are important to one’s health. “There are some oils that in moderation actually assist in the burning of stored fat, such as; olive oil, sesame oil, clarified butter” (Tierra, 1998, p. 52).

KITCHEN SPICES

If you look for a healthy digestive system in your spice rack you may find some simple home remedies. Gladstar states that you can “add ginger and cayenne to your food or make a warm tea with them. Use fresh grated ginger and only a few grains of cayenne.” (Gladstar, 2008, p. 94).

There are many herbs and supplements that can support good digestion and many different methods to apply these herbs. The book Herbal Recipes For Vibrant Health by Rosemary Gladstar has a few recipes. Below you will find a list of Gladstar’s recipes.

Make a mix of carminative seeds such as anise, cardamom, cumin, dill and fennel, and chew them between meals.
Digestive bitter tincture

2 parts fennel

1 part artichoke leaf

1 part dandelion root

1 part organically cultivated gentian

½ part ginger.

Take a teaspoon before and after meals (Gladstar, 2008, p. 95).

References

Required Study Guide; Basic Herbology, HRB 131 [Pamphlet]. (2008). Birmingham: Clayton College of Natural Health Inc.

Gladstar, R. (2008). Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health. North Adams, MA: Storey.

Tierra, M. (1998). The Way of Herbs. New York, NY: Pocket Books.

The Structure and Function of the Digestive System. (2009). Retrieved December 30, 2009, from

http://my.clevelandclinic.org/anatomy/digestive_system/hic_the_structure_and_function_of_the_digestive_system.aspx

Asparagus; The health benifits, how to eat it, & a recipe

2009-12-03T08:03:00.000-08:00

Chili-Glazed Tofu over Asparagus and Rice

There are three different colors of asparagus, white purple and the most commonly used green.

Choosing and Storing Asparagus
The key is to select straight, firm, uniformly sized spears with closed tips. Asparagus deteriorates rapidly, so it’s important to select bundles that are refrigerated. They should also be used within two or three days of purchase. If you do need to keep it for a day or two, the best way is to place the spears upright in a bowl (or even a small vase) of cold water. Alternatively, you can wrap the ends of the spears in a damp paper towel and refrigerate them.
-asparagus 101

Health benefits:
• A Natural Diuretic
• Food for Healthy Gut Flora
• A Birth Defect Fighter

How to cook Asparagus:

Like most vegetables asparagus does not have to be cooked, it can be eaten as is. You will want to cut the rough ends before you eat it. Some people like to add a little bit of olive oil. There are however many recipes for cooked asparagus.

A Few Quick Serving Ideas from www.whfoods.com
For a delectable hors d'oeuvre, roast asparagus along with other vegetables such as pattypan squash, Portobello mushrooms, and beets.
Steamed asparagus served with light lemon vinaigrette makes a delightfully refreshing salad.
Toss freshly cooked pasta with asparagus, olive oil and your favorite pasta spices. We especially enjoy thyme, tarragon and rosemary.
Chopped asparagus make a flavorful and colorful addition to omelets.
Healthy sauté asparagus with garlic, shiitake mushrooms and tofu or chicken.

Recipe from cooking light
Ingredients
• 4 cups water
• 1 (3 1/2-ounce) bag boil-in-bag long-grain rice
• 2 1/4 cups chopped asparagus (about 1 pound)
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon bottled minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon hot chili sauce with garlic (such as KA•ME)
• 1 pound extrafirm tofu, drained and cut lengthwise into 9 pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 cup preshredded carrot
• 1 teaspoon dark sesame oil
Preparation
Bring 4 cups water to a boil in a 2-quart saucepan. Add bag of rice, submerging bag completely in water. Boil 10 minutes. Carefully remove bag from pan, leaving boiling water in pan. Add asparagus to pan; cook 1 minute. Drain.
While rice cooks, heat peanut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Combine sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, and chili sauce in a small bowl. Sprinkle tofu with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper. Add tofu to pan; cook 3 minutes on each side or until browned. Add soy sauce mixture; cook 20 seconds, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Combine rice, asparagus, 1/2 teaspoon salt, carrot, and sesame oil. Serve tofu over rice.

UPDATE

2009-11-26T08:26:00.000-08:00

Hi readers,

It has been almost five months since I have started this blog, and I have learned so much. I hope I have been able to teach and help many people about nutrition. I know that researching so many diverse whole foods and revamping recipes of old dishes have really helped me on my journey to a healthy life style. I have been so much healthier, I haven't had headaches, or stomachaches, I have felt so much better, and I have also lost 26lbs.

I hope everyone is enjoying their Thanks Giving holiday. I am thankful for many things, including being able to teach people about food and nutrition.

As most may know my studies at Clayton guide the subjects of interest that I research my next class is Herbology, so I will be writing a little about herb and their uses. I hope you will continue to follow my blog.

Happy Holidays

Cyndi

Quick Note: Non-Fat milk

2009-11-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

I only use non-fat milk even when using it in my milk baths, too bad I was wrong for doing so.... Dr. Haas explains in his book Staying Healthy with Nutrition that non-fat milk actually depletes calcium in the body.

So, enjoy your milk :)

Butter Lovers, keep indulging- it's good for you!

2009-11-16T03:37:00.000-08:00

I hate butter, but most people LOVE IT!

Here is some great information for you butter lovers. Although butter is considered terrible and problematic by health care providers, new scientific evidence shows otherwise. Researchers have found that the intake of butyric acid, a short fatty acid that constitutes about 15% of all the fat found in butter, which has been associated with reduction of cancer risk and in some cases with reduction of tumor advancement. (Haas, 2006, p. 67)

It is also important to know that when saturated fat is short chain, it offers important health benefits that are lacking in the long chain version. (Haas, 2006, p. 67)

Refrence:
Haas, E. M. (2006). Staying Healthy with Nutrition. The Complete Guide To Diet And Nutritional Medicine. Berkely, CA: Celestial Arts.

Cherries the super food

2009-11-13T16:16:00.000-08:00

Super Food

Sweet, tart and abundant cherries are a wonderful source of food, but did you know they were a power punch against cancer, pain, weight loss and more? Cherries can be eaten alone, cooked into many dishes, or added to salads.

There are many health benefits that come from the small super fruit, you can start experiencing them if you eat 1-2 servings of cherries a day. The fruit can be eaten frozen, dry, or fresh and will still give you the health benefits you see below. Both sweet and tart cherries offer these benefits but tart cherries are better source then sweet cherries.

Health benefits of Cheery
Helping ease arthritis pain
Helping ease gout pain
Reducing risk factors for heart disease
Reducing risk factors for diabetes
Reducing risk for many cancers
Helping increase the levels of melatonin in the body
Helps prevents memory loss
Helps delay the ageing processes
Helps reduce body fat
Helps reduce inflammation
Helps reduce cholesterol levels
Weight loss

Recipe: from www.allrecipes.com
Christmas Cherry Cake

Ingredients
1 cup white sugar
1 cup butter
2 eggs
1/2 cup orange juice
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
12 ounces golden raisins
8 ounces halved glace cherries

Directions
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease and line with parchment paper one 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Cream butter or margarine and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add beaten eggs and orange juice and mix well.
Sift flour and baking powder. Reserve 1/3 cup of flour mixture and toss with raisins and cherries (this will keep them from sinking to the bottom of the cake). Add flour mixture to batter and blend. Add floured raisins and cherries to dough and mix until just combined. Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake at 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) for 2-1/2 hours. Don't serve until several days old. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or foil and store in a sealed tin.

Refrences:
http://www.choosecherries.com/health/main.aspx
http://autoimmunedisease.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_benefits_of_cherries
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Christmas-Cherry-Cake-2/Detail.aspx

H1N1: How not to get H1N1.

2009-11-12T22:15:00.000-08:00

H1N1 also known as the swine flu.

This has been on my mind since I had not been feeling well, and everywhere I turned everyone asked if it was the swine flu. Most people are terrified, of getting this particular flu, and I can understand why. Although H1N1 is very serious it isn’t very different from the regular flu. In fact more people have died from the regular flu then those who have died from the H1N1.
So what is H1N1/Swine flue? It is a strain of the flu that has cause a pandemic this year. Most people think it’s a new illness but the truth is that this flu appeared in 1919 as the first H1N1 pandemic. Swine flu also affected as many in 2006, ½ of those who had the flu that year had the H1N1 strain of the Influenza.

What are the symptoms?
Fever, sore throat, nasal cough, respiratory problems, body aches, diarrhea and vomiting.
So how do we protect ourselves from H1N1 or any flu for the matter? A lot of people are turning to the flu shot, but do you know what is in the flu shot?

-mercury

- Aluminum is added to promote an antibody response. It is a neurotoxin that may play a role in Alzheimer’s disease.)

- formaldehyde (cancer causing agent)- used for embalming

- ethylene glycol (antifreeze).

It is my opinion and that of thousands that this shot not be taken expecailly not for those who are pregnant. Immunizations have been linked to many problems in children including mental defects and paralysis.

For those of you who are looking for a safer more natural but effective approach, please continue reading below.

How to stay healthy
Keep your immune system working properly.
- Avoid sugar. It suppresses immunity.

- Avoid Omega-6 vegetable oils like corn and soybean, they are a powerful immune suppressants.

- Take your vitamins

- Eat nutritious meals.

- De-stress.

- Exercise.

- Get enough rest.

- And wash your hands. Viruses spread most often from touching contaminated objects.

There are also many natural substances that can help get rid of the flu, like MMS Miracle mineral solution, that seems to heal just about anything from flu, infections even cancer.
The blogger from http://www.motherknowsbest.com/ recommends Silver Shield. I have never tried it but it is said to be a super immune boast. I will try it and see if I see a difference in my immune system.

References:
http://www.wikipedia.com/
Motherknowsbest.com
swineflu.com
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWfCnjnShnM
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/02/health/02flu.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Turkey

2009-11-09T18:18:00.000-08:00

Mom’s turkey recipe

Thanks Giving is approaching and that means a delicious turkey! Most people are terrified of making turkey but it’s not that hard.
Here is one thing to keep in mind, for ever lbs to cook it takes 15mintues at 350 degrees. That means a 15lbs turkey is going to take about 4 hours. However, I like to leave my turkey on almost all day at 200-250 degrees. This makes a more succulent turkey and less dry.

Ingredients

- 2 onions
- organic oregano (fresh oregano is best and the amount is to your taste)
- ½ teaspon of Adobo (or sea salt)
-3 garlic gloves
- 15lbs turkey
-lemon juice

Instructions
Make sure your turkey is thawed, make sure you have clean yoru turkey, and take the stuff the extra parts they put in the inside like the neck.
1)Take your onions, oregano, adobo, and garlic and blend in your blender until it is liquefied. You might need to add a little bit of water to help your blender do this.

2)Make a lot of stabs to your turkey, about 15 stabs on each side

3)Pour your liquefied ingredients onto your turkey, and push the ingredients through the punchers you have made.
4)Allow the ingredients to seep in through the turkey over night- Place turkey in fridge.

5)Put turkey in the oven either at 350 degrees, for a faster cooked turkey or 200 ( at 200 it take 5 or more hours).

6)When you turkey has been in the oven for about 2hours squirt lemon juice on the surface. This will give it a beautiful brown/red color and taste great.

It is very easy and taste great.

If you enjoied thsi recipe please press the digg button bellow.

Stay Healthy,

Cyndi

Yummy

2009-11-06T02:10:00.000-08:00

Hi holistic friends,

I am in the process of studying for finals, working on projects, starting new classes, working on a content entry and a few new recipes (and other things). In the mean time, please enjoy these pictures from some foods we (my husband and I) have had in the last month or so. If you have any recipe request or any questions please feel free to comment, or e-mail me @ HolisticCyndi@aol.com.

Arroz con guandules

Rice and pigeon pea

Arroz con guandules, avacado and chicken breast (for the husband)

Brownies with banana and strawberries

Rice and black beans and baby spinach

AHerb chicken breast ( all meats were made for my husband)

Vegitarian chicken nugget subsitute and potato wedges

A very heft soup

Vegitarian buffelo fake chicken, salad and backed potato

Broccolli & Speghetti

Pinapple chicken and plantains

Beans with raddish and spinach among many other ingredients.

You can look forward to the bean recipe and the guandule recipe coming soon, along with an entry about the swine flu and how to stay H1N1 free.

Avacado

2009-11-04T20:50:00.000-08:00

As a daughter of islanders I grew up knowing exactly what an avocado is and “how good” it taste. I am not a huge fan of its taste but my father, mother, and husband are obsessed. I also must admit that it has AMAZING health benefits.

“The avocado is colloquially known as the Alligator Pear, reflecting its shape and the leather-like appearance of its skin. Avocado is derived from the Aztec word "ahuacatl."” – www.whfoods.com
Health Benefits:
· Optimum health
· Heart Health
· Increase Your Absorption of Carotenoids from Vegetables
· Avocado Phytonutrients Combat Oral Cancer

Avocados are a good source of vitamin K, dietary fiber, and vitamin B6, vitamin C, foliate and copper. Avocados are also a good source of potassium:

How to select an avocado:
An avocado that is ready to eat is slightly soft. The hard avocados are not yet ready to eat, though edible they will not taste as good.

How to eat avocados:
Avocados are a great side dish. My parents love to eat them with their plantains. My husband likes to eat them in his sandwiches. They can also be chopped up and added to you salad for a creamy taste or made into guacamole.

Click on the link bellow for a healthy guacamole recipe: http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/guiltless-guacamole

Pumpkin Seeds

2009-10-29T17:40:00.000-07:00

‘Tis the season for pumpkin carving, as Halloween quickly approaches and you begin carving your pumpkins, do yourself the favor of notthrowing away those pumpkin seeds. They can be made into a delicious and very nutritious snack, especially for men.

Health Benefits of pumpkin seeds are as follows

*Promote Prostate Health
*Protection for Men's Bones
*Anti-Inflammatory Benefits in Arthritis
*A Rich Source of Healthful Minerals, Protein and Monounsaturated Fat
*Pumpkin Seed Phytosterols Lower Cholesterol

This recipe is from www.simplerecipes.com

Ingredients
*One medium sized pumpkin
*Salt
*Olive oil

Instructions
1 Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut open the pumpkin and use a strong metal spoon to scoop out the insides. Separate the seeds from the stringy core. Rinse the seeds.

2 In a small saucepan, add the seeds to water, about 2 cups of water to every half cup of seeds. Add a half tablespoon of salt for every cup of water (more if you like your seeds saltier). Bring to a boil. Let simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and drain.

3 Spread about a tablespoon of olive oil over the bottom of a roasting pan. Spread the seeds out over the roasting pan, all in one layer. Bake on the top rack until the seeds begin to brown, 10-20 minutes. When browned to your satisfaction, remove from the oven and let the pan cool on a rack. Let the seeds cool all the way down before eating. Either crack to remove the inner seed (a lot of work and in my opinion, unnecessary) or eat whole.

Cyndi's Leek & Potato soup

2009-10-18T23:09:00.000-07:00

Ingredients

6 person serving size
6- Large chopped up carrots
6- Large chopped up potatoes
6- Leeks chopped up
- Cilantro (amount to your liking)
3- Chicken bouillon from Goya
1- Teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
3- Bay leaves
2- Chopped up onions
- Bunch of chopped up green onions
- Bunch of chopped up broccoli
- Teaspoon of Adobo- This is not needed
-Teaspoon of sea salt- This is also not needed and can be substituted by table salt.
-A bag of egg noodles- This is not needed

Instructions

1. Prep all your ingredients. (Wash and chop your vegetables, and make your other ingredients available.
2. Put your potatoes in with water & and your chicken bouillon (the amount of water is up to you depending on how much broth you would like, the broth in this soup is delicious. Keep in mind all the ingredients that you will be putting in the pot and the fact that some of the water will be boiled off.
3. Put the carrots, adobo, sea salt, onions, bay leaves, cilantro, and leeks in and stir every so often.
4. Once every vegetable in the soup seems soft add your broccoli and noodles.
Make sure to let your soup cook to allow the potatoes to create a creamy broth.
5. Add your olive oil right before serving. The olive oil should be put in last because its properties are very sensitive to heat, and all the nutrient of it would burn off.

To change the servings size- just divide these ingredient amounts by 6.

Please digg this article, by clicking the button below.

I forgot to take a picture the last time I made this recipe so I have posted a pictures from another website. The picture seen above is from, http://timeinc.net

SKIN EATS Part 5: Skin Brushing

2009-10-09T08:23:00.000-07:00

Skin Care Part 5
Brushing your skin

Brushing the skin is one of the best ways to exfoliate. This is the process where you brush off the top layer of the epidermis. This process stimulates the growth of newer, fresher skin.
It also opens your pores, making it easier for toxins to leave your body. Brushing can also help improve blood circulation, tighten, tone, get rid of cellulite, and leave skin feeling refreshed and renewed. Skin brushing also removes uric acid build up and helps our kidneys. Brushing your skin also helps your skin turn sun light into vitamin D.

After weeks you will no longer need lotion, because brushing your skin will allow your oil glands to produce enough oil for all your skin.

Update Oct 6th 2009 - I have been using this technique for about 4 days now and I am not using as much lotion as I normally need too. My skin feels amazing.

SKIN EATS Part 4: Tomato scrub

2009-10-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

Skin Eats Part 4
Tomato scrub

I was trying to wash my face and my mom told me to use a tomato. I used it (3 years ago) and I have yet to find anything that has worked quite as well.

Tomatoes are beneficial for the skin because they help unclog oily skin, and are an organic toner.

All you really need to do is cut a tomato and rub it on your face. Then rinse.

Michelle made a how to video about this topic: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKrUEtk01Js&feature=related

Studies show that tomatoes may reduce the likelihood of a range of different cancers, diabetes, and even heart disease. All of this due to the presence of the caretanoid, lycopene. Another study by the Center for Food at Virginia Tech reveals that there may be a link between lycopene and the reduced risk of prostate cancer. Read more: http://skin-nail-care.suite101.com/article.cfm/natural_skincare#ixzz0T94LGBSN

Skin Eats Part 3: Ancient Asian Secret

2009-10-09T08:19:00.000-07:00

Skin Eats Part 3
Rice Water

· Save the water that you used to clean your rice, and use it as a chemical free organic cleanser.

This solution will work as a cleanser and toner, an ancient Chinese technique that Asian women still use today. Many make up and skin care companies have tried to make products with this idea, but they always added numerous chemicals.
The best part is this will not cost you a dime, because you’re using something you normally dispose of.

Here is a video from Michelle, who is a famous makeup artist and will be coming up with her own skin care line. Her how to videos are pretty great.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByP2YvqfnnI

SKIN EATS PArt 2: Organic Products

2009-10-09T08:12:00.000-07:00

Skin Eats Part 2

Organic products
As I mentioned in another post, the skin is the largest organ of our body, and it requires special care.

Pro: Using organic lotion would be very beneficial to our health because your body will not be soaking in harmful chemical substances...
Con: A downside is that organic lotion is often very expensive…
Solution: Avalon organic products are very inexpensive.

I have been using Avalon Organics for a little over a month and it has truly made a huge difference. As a Hispanic, certain areas of my skin can get tough, within a few weeks those areas have become supple and soft. The products smell great. I purchased 3, 12 fl bottles of lotion for $12 at www.puritans.com

Honey & Milk baths are also amazing; you should treat yourself like CLEOPATRA.

http://www.ehow.com/how_4736075_soft-skin-honey-milk-bath.html

If you enjoied this article please digg me by clicking the button below.

Stay Healthy,
Cyndi

SKIN EATS PArt 1: Honey Glow face mask & cleanser

2009-10-09T08:02:00.000-07:00

Skin Eats Part 1

Honey Lemon Glow.

Keep in mind that for great and healthy skin you should always wear sunblock of at least 15 spf, you need to intake Vitamins E and A and D whether in food or supplements, you need to exfoliate, and lubicate ( with lotion).

Ingredients:

The amount is based on what you are planning to store your new skin care solution in. I am using a 4oz bottle I purchased at Michael’s for a dollar. Because you are using milk you will have to store this solution in your fridge. However you can make a solution without the milk.

· 1/4th teaspoon sugar
· 2 table spoons Honey
· 3 table spoons Lemon juice
· Milk

Instructions:
1. Mix all these ingredients into a bottle.
2. Rub lightly on skin every day
3. Rinse

You may also use this as a leave-it-in mask for at least 10 mintues.
It is my opinion that no one should use an over night mask. When you leave junk on your face it doesn’t allow your skin to breathe. Too much thick lotion or make up will not allow your skin to breath as they clog your pores. It can also cause pimples.
You can also add baking soda which softens the skin

Make sure you rinse this solution before you go out into the sun. Lemon juice should not be used out on the sun as it can cause burning and tanning of the skin.

Why this works:
· The sugar exfoliates the skin, when you rub it on your skin the granules help get rid of dead skin.
· Lemon juice helps give you an even tone. It has been said that it lightens skin, but I believe it only brightens your skin. Lemon juice is considered a natural bleach for both the hair and skin.
· Honey heals blemishes- Honey kills the bacteria, keeps the skin sterile, and speeds healing.
· Milk- exfoliates, softens and nourishes the skin.
This skin care solution is all natural and more effective than most of those expensive products that have chemicals in them.

Another thing to keep in mind is your milk’s expiration date- you don’t want to smell rotten milk on your face so make sure you use your solutions before the expiration date.

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Stay Healthy,

Cyndi

Pineapple Chicken

2009-10-05T16:48:00.000-07:00

Hawaiian Cyndi -Pineapple chicken

Ingredients:
This is for 2 people.

• 2 Lean chicken breasts
• 1 Pineapple
• ½ teaspoon Adobo
• Lemon juice

Instructions:
1. Slice your pineapple. Remember that you will be using all parts of the pineapple. The core and the top as well for a decorative plate.

2. Cook your chicken with a cup of water and the core of your pineapple. The core of your pineapple is the hard middle part. Doing this will allow you to use every part of the pineapple and help flavor your chicken.

3. Add a dash of lemon juice

4. Add ½ teaspoon of adobo

5. Dump the water and the pineapple core

6. Simmer your chiken with small slices of pineaaple. This will allow the pineapple to cook with your chicken providing it with more flavors.

Click on the pictures to see them larger.

Then because I am a vegitarian I made myself this beautifully delicious snack.

If you enjoied this recipe please digg it by clicking on the button below.

Stay Healthy,

Cyndi

Tricks and tips on how the presentation of your food can be helful in many ways

2009-10-05T16:23:00.000-07:00

When you decorate your plate with non-edibles it helps fill your plate and thus makes your mind think that you are eating more then you truly are. This can be very helpful for those who have problems with portion control. Another trick to making delicious meals are colors. Vibrant colors always makes the food look more appealing and healthy. Usually the more colorful your meals are the more nutrients your body is getting. This is because foods of different colors usually have different types of vitamins and minerals. In other words, if your food is all one color you’re probably not getting enough necessary vitamins, and you may be over doing it in a certain vitamin.

please digg this article by clicking the button below.

Stay Healthy,
Cyndi

SKIN EATS

2009-10-05T15:25:00.001-07:00

The skin is the biggest organ in our body, it is where we begin to detox first, and it is one of our best protectors against just about EVERYTHING. This makes it obvious that we do have to care for our skin. As I mentioned before the skin is the biggest organ of our body, so it makes sense that we stop polluting it with chemicals. We should check what our skin care products and make up contain, and even what the water we use on our skin has. This should be your first step. Researching what these chemicals can do to your body and skin should be your next step. I will begin a series of organic and natural skin care tips to help you get started. 

Allium Family Series Part 3: The Onion

2009-09-26T21:34:00.001-07:00

Allium Cepa AKA Onion

What onions look like? Onions are circular and come in a variety of colors and each color has a slightly different flavor. The yellow Onion is the least sweet.
What does onion taste like? Onions taste a little like a stronger version of leek. They also have a more favorable texture then leek. Though there are slight differences in taste amongst the many types of onions. My favorite is the yellow onion, and second favorite is the red onion. My husband's favorite are Vidalia onions.
How to eat onions: Onions seem to be a staple for all kitchens. Onions can be eaten raw in salads (Wouldn't recommend in large amounts unless you are adjusted to the taste), fried in food, or boiled in soup. You can eat an onion with just about anything. A very famous dish is the blooming onion. My favorite way to eat onions is with beans and rice.

Health Benefits of Onions
· Blood Sugar-Lowering Effects
· Cardiovascular Benefits
· Support Gastrointestinal Health
· Onion and Garlic Protective against Many Cancers
· Onions Protective against Ovarian Cancer
· Boost Bone Health
· Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Bacterial Activity

Stay Healthy
Love
Cyndi

Allium Family Series Part 5

2009-09-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

Allium Schoenoprasum AKA Chives

What Chives look like: They are long green stems.
What Chives taste like: Chives are strong in flavor and aroma.
How to eat Chives: Chives are herbs and are used in many Chinese dishes.

Health Benefits of Chives:
Chives come from the same ‘family’ as onions and garlic, but chives do not possess as much sulphur as the aforementioned. Therefore their health benefits are not so strong.
• anti-cancer
• anti-clotting
• antibacterial
• antiviral and decongestant properties.
.
“In Chinese herbal medicine, chives are used to control bleeding and to treat fatigue. The leaves can be applied to insect bites, cuts and wounds and the seeds used for treating problems associated with the kidney, liver and the digestive system. Chives have also been shown to help lower cholestrol when included in a balanced diet. They are rich in vitamin A and C and contain a small quantity of iron.” -www.revitaliseyourhealth.com

Allium Family Part 4: Shallot & Scallions

2009-09-26T21:10:00.000-07:00

Allium Oschaninii AKA Shallot

What do Shallots look like: They look like onions and garlic. Shallots are the same plant that has scallions and hold many of the same benefits. Scallions are the green leafy top, and shallot is the bulb.
What do Shallots taste like: I not had a shallot yet. But I will let you know when I do. Shallot.com states that they taste like a bold sweet onion and garlic.
How to eat a Shallot: Like the rest of the Allium family shallot can be added to just about anything. I found many recipes of meat with shallot.

Benefit of Shallot and Scallions
Have the same benefits of onions, but provides more protein then the other vegetables in the Allium family.

Allium Family Series: Part 2

2009-09-26T20:12:00.000-07:00

Allium Sativum AKA Garlic

What Garlic looks like: The ones we buy at the grocery stores are circular and white, the part we normally purchase is actually the root of the plant.
What Garlic taste like: Garlic has a distinct and bold taste that I can not compare to anything else.
How to eat Garlic: You can eat garlic whole and raw but I would not recommend that. Garlic is added to many of our favorite dishes, adding a little bit of garlic would transform just about any dish. I add garlic to all pasta dishes.

Health Benefits of Garlic
• Cardiovascular Benefits
• Anti-Inflammatory, Antibacterial and Antiviral Activity
• Garlic and Onions Protective against Many Cancers
• Potent, Even Against Drug-Resistant Strains of Bacteria
• Promotes Optimal Health
• Promotes Weight Control
• Protection against Asbestos

Allium Family Series Part 1: Leek

2009-09-26T20:00:00.000-07:00

Allium Porrum AKA Leek

Allium Porrum is part of the Allium vegetables, other Alliums vegetables are onions and garlic.

What leek look like: Leeks are long and green, and are sold with their roots.
What leek taste like: Leeks are actually very tasty, they taste like a mild onion.
How to eat leek: The best way to eat leek is raw with other vegetables, this way you take in all the nutrients and minerals. This is true of all vegetables and fruits. You can chop up leek and add it to your salad. There are also many dishes where leek would be perfectly cooked in, for example leek soup. Any dish that you normally cook with onions, leek would taste great with.

#1 bestseller French Women Don't Get Fat’s author praises leek providing a now famous "Magical Leek Soup" recipe. “In her book, Guiliano claims that leeks are an important part of the French woman's diet, pointing out that leek are a mild diuretic as well as highly flavorful and nutritious.” ( wikipedia)
- My husband made me leek soup it was amazing.

Leek’s Health Benefits
• Lower LDL Cholesterol While Raising HDL Cholesterol
• Promote Optimal Health
• Leeks Protective against Ovarian Cancer
• Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels

Update #2

2009-09-26T13:22:00.001-07:00

Hi Holistic friends,
Cyndi here; I have a couple of new things going on, that I would like to share with you all. I started a Youtube channel called Holistic Cyndi. I will be posting V Blogs on updates and many Holistic Eating topics. I have wanted to do this for a while but, I wasn’t confident enough. I quickly got over that. The webcam I have isn’t very good but I will be getting a new one. The best part is that it will make it easier for you to follow recipes through video.

In order to see the video please click on the title above " Update #2" or search for HolisticCyndi in www.Youtube.com.

I also just joined some groups on www.meetup.com where I will be attending different lectures and festivities on different aspects of being healthy. If you are in these groups, I can’t wait to see you. My meet up name is Holistic Cyndi :) I live in Loudon County in Virginia, so if you live in the area and have meet up groups that pertains to anything Holistic, or Nutrition let me know, and I would be happy to join your group.
I look forward to meeting you guys.
Stay Healthy
Cyndi

Cyndi's Veggie Eggplant Lasagna

2009-09-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

Click on the pictures to see them bigger and closer.

Ingredients
· 1 box of whole grain or whole wheat Lasagna pasta
· Broccoli chopped up into tiny pieces
· 2 cup of chopped leek into very small pieces
· 1 bottle of heart healthy sauce
· Spinach
· Low fat parmesan cheese ( as much as you want but keep in mind that cheese has a lot of fat)
· Basil
· Oregano
· Vegetarian ground meat alternative (or ground meat).
· Olive oil
· Eggplant

Make your ingredients ready and available so that this process goes quickly and smoothly.

Instructions:
1. Boil your pasta.
2. Chop up all your vegetables and Take the skin off of your eggplant and then slice the eggplant into thin slices.
3. Fry your eggplant in pure olive oil until it is a brownish color.
4. Dab the oil out of your eggplant with napkins or paper towels. Eggplant soaks up a lot of oil, so you will need to repeat this as you see fit. Keep in mind that oil=fat so the less oil the less fat is in your lasagna.
5. Put your meat and sauce in the same pot and begin to cook it. Put your oregano and basil spices into you sauce. The spices will give it more flavor and contain many healthy vitamins.
6. Put your leek into your sauce. If it is real beef it will take a little longer but if it is fake veggie meat then it should be done in about 5-10 minutes.
7. Pour a little tiny bit of olive oil on your baking dish and rub it all over. This will make it easier when you serve it later. By now your noodles should be done.
8. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
9. Begin to layer your pan with your ingredients. Start with noodles, then spinach then eggplant, then sauce, and little bit of cheese or however you would prefer.
10. On your top and last layer put a player of cheese and broccoli
11. Place your pan in the oven for 25-30mintues.

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This is a healthier version of a lassgna... But I won't call it healthy ;)

Stay Healthy,

Love,

Cyndi

Artifical Sweetners

2009-09-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

Our bodies were not designed to put artificial manmade food in them. When we do results can lead to tragedy. I am not trying to scare anyone in to being “HOLISTIC” I am simply putting up facts and research.

Artificial sweeteners cause weight gain

Today, I have been researching artificial sweeteners. I know of many people that have become addicted to fake sugars because they want to lose weight. However if they did a little research they would find that the leading scientists today have come to the conclusion that fake sugar substitutes like Aspartame or other artificial sweeteners are a leading cause of the obesity epidemic in the United States. “[Dr.] Terry Davidson and [Dr.] Susan Switchers both in the Department of Psychological Sciences found that artificial sweeteners may disrupt the body's natural ability to "count" calories based on foods' sweetness. This finding may explain why increasing numbers of people in the United States lack the natural ability to regulate food intake and body weight” (http://www.purdue.edu/).

Side note for pregnant women: If you're not willing to stop eating this stuff, you should at least cease when you're pregnant, your child doesn't deserve the chance to get birth defects including metal retardation, because you wanted some "Diet" sweetener.

Aspartame’s side effects: Adverse reactions and side effects that can occur because of aspartame include:
Eye

blindness in one or both eyes

decreased vision and/or other

eye problems such as:

blurring, bright flashes, squiggly lines, tunnel vision, decreased night vision

pain in one or both eyes

decreased tears

trouble with contact lenses

bulging eyes
Ear

tinnitus - ringing or buzzing soundsevere

intolerance of noisemarked

hearing impairment
Neurologic

epileptic seizuresheadaches

migraines

(some severe)dizziness

unsteadiness

both confusion

memory loss

both severe drowsiness and sleepiness

paresthesia or numbness of the limbs

severe slurring of speech

severe hyperactivity

restless legs

atypical facial pain

severe tremors
Psychological/Psychiatric

severe depression

irritability

aggression

anxiety

personality changes

insomnia

phobias
Chest

palpitations

tachycardia

shortness of breath

recent high blood pressure
Gastrointestinal

nausea

diarrhea sometimes with blood in stools

abdominal pain

pain when swallowing
Skin

skin Allergies

itching without a rash

lip and mouth reactions

hives aggravated respiratory allergies such as asthma
Endocrine Metabolic loss of control of diabetes

menstrual changes

marked thinning or loss of hair marked

weight loss gradual weight gain

aggravated low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

severe PMS
Other

frequency of voiding and burning during urination

excessive thirst

fluid retention

leg swelling

bloating increased

susceptibility to infection

Additional Symptoms of Aspartame Toxicity include the most critical symptoms of all

death

irreversible brain damage

birth defects

including mental retardation

peptic ulcers

aspartame addiction

increased craving for sweets

hyperactivity in children

severe depression

aggressive behavior

suicidal tendencies
Aspartame may trigger, mimic, or cause the following illnesses:

Chronic Fatigue

SyndromeEpstein-BarrPost-Polio Syndrome

Lyme Disease

Grave’s Disease

Meniere’s DiseaseAlzheimer’s Disease

ALSEpilepsyMultiple Sclerosis (MS)

EMS Hypothyroidism Mercury sensitivity from Amalgam fillings

Fibromyalgia

Lupusnon-Hodgkins

Lymphoma

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

Splenda
“Splenda, has been described as being more like a pesticide than food. With no long-term studies as yet available, I would urge caution in believing this to be any less of a threat than earlier products. Additive sweeteners are not subject to rigorous testing and it is the public who end up being the guinea pigs for a money-biased industry”. ( Madhealth.com) However, the effects record for short term test ( the last few years) show many side effects that are usually a sign of something bigger and worse to come.

The side effects are as follows, skin rashes, flushes, panic attacks, dizziness, numbness, pins and needles in limbs, diarrhea, muscle fatigue, headaches, cramps, bladder problems, digestive problems, bloating, obesity and cancer. Reports also include shrinking of the thymus gland responsible for aiding the immune system, and enlarged kidney and liver as they struggle to deal with the toxicity involved.

Flaxseed

2009-09-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

The benefits of the super food, Flaxseed, on your Health.

Let me be honest with you and tell you that I had not heard of flaxseed until Britney Spears had been using it to help her lose weight (during her come back). During this time I was focusing on losing weight so I purchased a box of milled flaxseed (which is just flaxseed grounded into a powder). It however remained in my pantry for a while before I decided to try it.

Flaxseed tastes like nuts and can be added to EVERYTHING. After my husband and I learned of all the benefits of flaxseed we have been adding it to everything; on salads, green beans, meats, and vegetables as a topping. Flaxseed can be purchased in many forms like the actual flower, the seeds, in a powder form and in an oil form.

There are many benefits of flax seed some of them are listed below;

· Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
· Omega-3-rich Flaxseeds Protect Bone Health
· Protection Against Heart Disease, Cancer and Diabetes
· Flaxseeds Help Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure
· Flaxseed Provides Comparable Cholesterol-Lowering Benefits to Statin Drugs
· Flaxseed Oil Lowers Blood Pressure in Men with High Cholesterol
· Rich in Beneficial Fiber
· Flaxseed Puts the Brakes on Prostate Cancer Growth
· Special Protection for Women's Health
· Flaxseed Reduces Hot Flashes Almost 60%
· Fend Off Dry Eye
· Promotes regularity and healthy digestion.
· Help stabilize blood sugar levels.
· Helps increase your metabolic rate, assisting in weight loss. Especially around the waist.
· Provides a boost to the immune system.
· Promotes and maintain healthy skin.

Stay Healthy,

Love,

Cyndi

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Eggplant

2009-09-16T11:40:00.000-07:00

My mouth has met its new favorite vegetable, the eggplant. My mother would often make eggplant lasagna for my father who is vegetarian but I would refuse to eat such a vegetable. As a child vegetables to me were vile and insulting to my taste buds. Now at age 24 I am continually looking to change up my vegetable intake to make sure I get all the vitamins and minerals that my body needs to be healthy. I also look for vegetables that are in season as they are often on sale. Eggplants at Shoppers in Leesburg are a $1 right now. You can’t beat that right?

This picture from whfoods.com diplays the nutritional value of Eggplant.
Egg plant is a large purple vegetable that is spongy and beige inside. To my husband and me it tastes more like a fruit then a vegetable. It was slightly sweet. But the eggplant, like all vegetables has many benefits aside from tasting delicious. According to whfood.com, “In addition to featuring a host of vitamins and minerals, eggplant also contains important phytonutrients, many which have antioxidant activity. Phytonutrients contained in eggplant include phenolic compounds, such caffeic and chlorogenic acid, and flavonoids, such as nasunin.” They also state that Eggplant is a brainfood that helps repair damaged brain cells. (www.whfoods.com).
There are many ways to eat an egg plant. I first tried it raw, it was amazing. Second I tried it as part of my lasagna. You can make stuffed eggplant or fried eggplant, or a vegetarian chicken alternative. But there are many more ways that you can eat this delicious gift from nature.

Eggplant vegetarian lasagna

Grilled Korean EggPlant

Stay Healthy,

Love,

Cyndi
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This weeks groceries.

2009-09-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

I am learning to love foods I thought I disliked like radish. My favorite drink is raspberry lemonade but I have also been buying pineapple juice. I buy bananas every week as I found out Americans greatest deficiency is potassium. I am pretty happy with the way I normally eat now. I look forward to continually diversifying my foods and learning more... Something you do not see is that I also buy whole grain cinnamon and raisin bread. Raisin bread helps my sweet cravings and I love the way it taste. I hope to find something healthier to replace it. I also buy every once in a while dark chocolate; I hope to continually go to darker %.
I make sure I don’t buy anything with HFCS if possible. I don’t like to cook my vegetables as it cooks away the nutrients.
Stay Healthy

Love
Cyndi

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Refined Carbs

2009-09-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

According to Light the author of What to eat, refine carbohydrates are more easily stored as fat. Whole grain on the other hand contains a balanced amount of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Because of this whole grain foods are broken down slowly in the body.

Stay healthy

Love

Cyndi

Update

2009-09-09T13:00:00.000-07:00

My first update.
I will be posting updates every month.

After researching for my Coca Cola blog, I found out how truly bad High Fructose Corn Syrup truly is. Due to the information I decided to cut it out of my life, and try my best not to have any. It seems almost unavoidable. A lot of my favorite foods had it. It started to seem like I was only going to be able to eat fruits and veggies! Even my salad dressing had it… But I quickly found healthier versions of my favorite food sans HFSC. I also replace my Coca Cola cravings with all natural homemade fruit smoothies. This is not to say that I have been eating healthy every day. I wish I could say this but eating properly is something that I have done for so long and I must battle my addictions.

When I finally got rid of all the products with HFCS it seemed as though my ankle was healed. I was able to do 30 miles of running and walking that week without any ankle pain. I didn’t really associate not eating HFCS to my ankle right away… It was the day I drank Coca Cola and went for my daily walks/jogs and realized that the debilitating ankle pain had come back… At this point I though Coca Cola was the culprit. Then I drank ginger ale and the pain was back… I realized my problem was HFSC. ( Both products have HFCS as their main ingredient).

Now I know that although one sip of coke probably won’t kill me, but it sure will make me feel pain and will not allow me to go on a walk let alone a jog.

I am also happy to report that within two weeks of this, I lost 18lbs and 14inches from various parts of my body. I am also a lot more cheerful, and sleep regularly. I am no longer experiencing insomnia. I am happy to see my thesis being proven by my own actions; Eating healthy will make you healthy all over; mind, body, and spirit.

A typical dinner for us

2009-09-07T15:20:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the quality of this picture. It was taken with my IPhone.

A typical dinner for me, consist of lots of green and vegetables, and some protein and a whole grains. This was lunch for us (my husband and I today), normally lunch has more greens.
This was a very healthy meal that tastes really great! I didn’t even need salad dressing.
The beans are red kidney beans which I cook with raddish, onions, green Bell peppers, basil, oregano, a dash of adobo, a few drops of lemon juice, wine, and some spinach. It was pretty much the best beans I have ever tasted. I will be writing out the recipe soon.
The rice is steamed brown rice, with a little bit of Olive oil. I didn’t add any salt because adobo is very salty…
The salad is romain lettuce, purple lettuce, raddish, spinach, and carrots.

Stay Healthy

Love

Cyndi

Healthy Hungry Husband's Sandwhich

2009-09-03T16:35:00.001-07:00

Click on the pictures to see them up close- It makes you hungry!

Recipe

Healthy Hungry Husbands Sandwich.
Lemon flavor

I named it this because I made it for him… I absolutely love to invent dishes for him. I am vegetarian so I dont eat it, but he said it was DELICIOUS!

Ingredients

2 small chicken breast
2 teaspoons of milled flax seed
1 teaspoon of lemon herbs
1 table spoon lemon juice

Instructions
1. Boil chicken
2. While chicken is simmering on a low flame add the rest of the ingredients.
3. Make your sandwich with your favorite toppings and YOU’RE DONE!

FYI
I used this new buns, it’s called Arnolds select sandwich thins multi grain. They are delicious and nutritious.
The lemon hearbs I bought from CVS …

Please digg my recipe by clicking the button below.

Stay Healthy
Love
Cyndi

Colorful

2009-09-03T16:21:00.000-07:00

Color is very important!

Try making your salads as colorful as possible. Vegetables with different colors have different vitamins and minerals that your body need. Most people stick to just green, but making your salad colorful will be very beneficial to your health.

Instant message me

2009-09-01T16:04:00.000-07:00

Hey,

add me on AIM at Synfullyrics and HolisticCyndi . You can ask me questions :)

Stay Healthy
Love
Cyndi

Cyndi's Smoothie

2009-08-31T06:40:00.000-07:00

Yummy All natural Smoothie
Serving size is 2-4
1cup of fat free milk
¼ black berries
¼ cup blue berries
¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract
¼ cup raspberries
1banana
1cup of strawberries
1 cup of ice

With this smoothie you will have all your recommended fruit servings for the day (if you drink a full glass) you will have the proper sugar your body needs, and it will help you with cravings.
This smoothie is perfect for a snack or breakfast. You really shouldn’t buy those packet smoothies as they contain a lot of unhealthy stuff like, High fructose corn syrup, or unnecessary refined sugar. Fruits have a lot of sugar; there is no need to put anymore in it.

You could also try added the veggies you normally wouldn't eat... You won't taste them but you will have the nutrition in your smoothie.

Making food look better, makes it taste better!

2009-08-24T01:51:00.000-07:00

Before...

After...

Instead of eating mashed potatoes with butter and salt and milk… bake a potato and eat the skin. The potato skin will help you digest as it is high in fiber. Season some green beans. For extra protein have a side of peanuts or a vegetarian meat alternative. Make your dinners as special as you can, by making the dinner table look romantic and nice. When you do this you are less likely to over eat. Over eating really slows down the digestive system, makes you feel sluggish and makes you gain weight. Making your meal look more appetizing will help you eat them. I personally dislike green beans but they are very good for you, if you season them with natural ingredients they taste amazing (please click here for my green bean recipe- http://holisticeating.blogspot.com/2009/08/cyndis-french-styled-beans.html)

Stay healthy

Love

Cyndi

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Review: Morning Star Hickory BBQ Riblets

2009-08-24T01:35:00.000-07:00

As someone who is only three months (four on Sept 1, 2009) into becoming a vegetarian I can really appreciate the packaged meat-substitute veggies that are made to taste like our once favorite meats. My new favorite is the Morning Star, hickory BBQ riblets. It is delicious and high in protein.
Meat eater or vegetarian I would eat this over regular ribs anyway!

Stay healthy,
Love
Cyndi

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SUPER FOOD; Acai berry

2009-08-24T01:16:00.000-07:00

Super food: Acai Berry.

Like most people who often use networking websites, I am constantly bombarded with advertisements about weight loss. Recently the most popular weight loss product advertised to me has been acai berry[1]. It took me a while before I decided to try actual acai berry supplements (not the kind you see advertised but actual acai berry), because I have stopped putting my focus on losing weight.
I disagree with diets the way people think of diets. They often promote very unhealthy food. Diets often promote fake foods like replacing real sugar with fake sugar, which in fact is a poison to the brain. I would rather gain weight then acquire these diseases associated with fake foods. Instead of focusing on diets I am focusing on understanding how my body reacts to food and what it needs. I am embracing a vegetarian and mostly organic lifestyle and have seen many benefits in the short three months that I have become vegetarian. Just in the first month I lost 10 lbs. My focus is on over-all health and I know for sure if I focus on my health then that will include being at a weight that is best for me. With all this said lets fast forward to today! ( 8-22-09)
Like I have mentioned before I do not purchase weight loss products but I have just received these 12 products in the mail. One of the products was an acai berry supplement that is meant for detoxifying[2]
I had so much energy after taking this supplement! I feel amazing! I had always been a very active person but after my ankle was ruined during a Tae Kwon Do match 3 years ago, I have been pretty sluggish. Tonight I went for 5 miles tiring my dog out and still had the energy to do Yoga and a light workout. I feel amazing. I feel more like myself than I have in three years! The extra energy came from Green Tea that is in the supplement.
If you are someone who like me needs the extra energy and wants to be healthier, I would give this a try.
I do believe this supplement will help[3] people lose weight because of all the energy it gives you, and positive energy. However I cannot tell you if I lose weight on this supplement because I am doing so many things that promote optimum health which in turns promotes weight loss. Due to the amount of changes in my life I would not be able to pin point if it does or not.

Due to the many inferior products out their please research which one is best. Here is an article that may help get you started.
http://www.myacaiberryonline.com/acaiberry.asp

Stay Healthy
Love
Cyndi

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------------------------------------------------------------------

[1] Acai berry is a natural fruit found in the Amazon. It has been said to help with overall health.
Please be aware that there are many scamming companies attempting to sell supplements with little to acai berry that do not work, and can be harmful. Before buying any product one should always research what they are buying.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A%C3%A7a%C3%AD_Palm/

[2] Although the product is for detoxification people are advertising it for weightless.
[3] What I mean by help people lose weight, I mean if you eat properly and take this supplement then you will have the energy to exercise.

Disclaimer

2009-08-23T23:30:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: What I am not and will not do.

I am not a dietitian nor do I claim to be. I cannot tell you what you should do to lose weight nor do I want to. I am a obtaining a masters degree in Holistic Nutrition not a certificate to become a dietitian. Every person is different and needs different foods. I deal with health which in turn does promote weight loss. Thus, if you are eating healthy your weight will become healthy.

As a person who has battled weight issues from all the spectrums (thin, regular and fat) and as someone who has witnessed family and friends battle weight issues, I can tell you that if you actually follow any popular diet out there like Atkins or Jenny Craig then you will lose weight.

Those diets make it simple to lose weight. They find the fastest way for you to lose weight with cheap fake foods. These programs will also educate you about what foods you should eat regardless of what your body needs, as the goal is not your health but your weight. They are not about being healthy but about reduceing calorie and fat intake that people find appetizing.
Knowing what I know now, I would not join these programs, nor would I advise anyone to.

Everyone I have known to be on these types of diets is always suffering from stomach aches, deficiencies, headaches, and much more. The moment you get off of them you will begin to gain weight at an alarming rate. Your issues with food and weight become worse because your relationship with food becomes more distorted and your metabolism becomes slower. This I know from experience and observation.

If you really want to lose weight and keep it off my advice as an ordinary girl who has battled weight problems…

Get healthy; it’s starting to work for me.

· The food pyramid is wrong! Do not follow it, the government is lying to you about what we should be eating and how much of it.

· Listen to your body. It tells you what it needs. Example: if you have a candy craving then you are probably low in sugar. Don’t eat the candy eat an orange as it has a lot of natural sugar. The more you do this, the more you train your body to tell you exactly what it needs. Before you know it you will crave fruits instead of refined sugars.

· Eat more vegetables and fruits. Our bodies are not designed for cooked food and meats. We often over load our colon with cooked foods that have less fiber and nutrition then that of raw.
· Eat often. Starving yourself will only make it worse, inevitably you will have to give in or die. Over eating will also lead to diseases and premature death (in its extreme). Eat often but in fist size portions (5-6 times a day is best).
· Work out! You don’t have to go to the gym. You can lift very light 3-5lbs dumb bells while you are watching a show. Go for a walk in the park. You do not have to become obsessed with exercising or going to the gym but you probably ought to move more.

And most importantly- Drink a lot of water.

That is the best advice I can give anyone, and I am simply just not someone who has had a very successful weight loss plan until now, and it is in progress so I do not have much to show for it except that I have lost 10lbs from becoming vegetarian. I know most people will never be vegetarian as last I check we are less than 1% of the U.S. All I can say is I am so much healthier than I have been in the last 3 or 4 years.

Stay Healthy
Love
Cyndi

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Cyndi's wedges

2009-08-18T02:52:00.000-07:00

Cyndi's Potatoes wedges
If you are a french fry addict who is looking for a way to stop the cravings… Potatoes wedges are the best and easy way to go. It is very easy and taste sooooo very good. It is also inexpensive, and easier to make then frying. Most importantly it is healthier and so delicious.

Serves 2

Ingredients
· 2 Potatoes
· Pam
· Oven pan
· Adobo

Instructions

1. Pre heat your oven to 450 ( you can do this also at 350 but it will take longer)
2. Wash your potato
3. Cut your potatoes into wedges or your desired size, you can even cut then into cubes for crispier chunks.
4. Spray Pam or any non stick oil on to your pan
5. Put your potatoes on your pan. If you line them up nicely they will be crispier.
6. Season lightly with adobo or your favorite seasoning (this is optional). Sea salt would probably be the best.
7. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until golden. The darker the crispier but remember burned food is carcinogenic.

Stay Healthy

Love

Cyndi

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Mommy-In-Laws yummy muffins

2009-08-17T20:50:00.001-07:00

This is the healthiest muffin you will ever come across! It is also one of the yummiest treats I have ever had. My mother in law Heidi DuPree sent me the recipe to share with you all. It has helped her kick sugar and wheat!

Ingredients

2 cups flour (can substitute almost flour if you are sensitive to wheat -- put a bag of almonds through the food processor to make flour)

1 cup flax seed meal (can put flax seeds through the food processor to make flour)

1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut

2 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

3 eggs

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup honey

2 cups grated zucchini (or banana, or pumpkin, or carrots)

Instructions

Bake 375 degrees for 22-25 minutes. Serve warm with cold unsweetened applesauce

Recipe: Healthy Mangu

2009-08-16T18:17:00.000-07:00

Healthy version of MANGU
· 2 large green plantains
· Chopped up onions
· 1 teaspoon olive oil
· Cheese of your choice ( I used Tropical cheese)
· 1 teaspoon salt ( sea salt is best)
FYI: white cheese is healthier then yellow.

Instructions
1. Peel the plantains
2. Cut them into smaller pieces
3. Put them in a pan with water to boil (When plantains turn yellow and have soften they are done).
4. Pour the water out of the pot
5. Mash the plantains like you would mash potatoes
6. Cut some onions ( the amount you would desire)
7. Pure your teaspoon of olive oil into a new pot
8. begin to sauté your onions in the pot with the olive oil
9. When onions have darkened a little pour them into your plantains
10. Cut small pieces of cheese (DOMINICANS: FOR THIS HEALTHY VERSION DO NOT FRY YOUR CHEESE, this is not healthy).

Review: Black bean Chipotle veggie burger, by gardenburger

2009-08-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

REVIEW:
Gardenburger, Black Bean Chipotle veggie burger
FYI:
Did you know that cows are fed 90% corn, and that they are slaughtered within 6 months of them reaching their confinement pens, mainly because they would die if they were kept alive any longer? This is due to the way they are raised. They are immobile and fed nothing but corn! Americans are consuming cows that are so unhealthy they are on the verge of death. Corn is not unhealthy but large amounts of just one food is deadly. Diversifying your diet is the best way to stay healthy—Human or animal. If anyone were to eat 90% of any one thing for 6 month they would also die.
Thank goodness that becoming vegetarian is being made so easy. I have been a vegetarian since June 1st 2009. I have noticed immense chances, and positive health effects. I will go into further detail about my journey into vegetarianism in another post. Today I am going to talk to you about the best veggie burger I’ve ever had.
The Black Bean Chipotle Veggie Burger by Gardenburger is simply delicious! Most importantly I feel great after I eat it! I feel energized, light, yet satisfied. It is a little spicy. One down side is that it has a few lima beans in it. I strongly dislike lima beans but I get over it quickly because the burger tastes so good. Oh yeah and it only takes two mintues or less to make in the microwave!

Husband's Healthy Hamburger

2009-08-16T04:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a healthy and delicious option just in time for Labor Day! This would defiantly impress your party guest, as they will think they are eating gourmet hamburgers.

I call them : Husband's Healthy “hamburgers”

You will need
· 98% lean ground turkey ( or your fav ground meat)
· Green bell peppers
· Onions
· Char grill seasoning
· Leek
And of course whole wheat bread and your fav toppings

No actual measurements are necessary since this is on per desired preference. My husband likes burgers that have a lot of meat, and I like making sure he gets lots of nutritious veggies, so the portions I made for this recipe are large. I choose turkey because it has some of the leanest meat.

Instructions

1. Cut your vegetables into small pieces
2. Pour your vegetables into your ground meat.
3. Then mix the vegetables in very in order to make sure your vegetables are evenly distributed through the meat.
4. Pour a little Char Grill seasoning into the meat
5. Separate your meat into the desired sizes of the burgers you will be making, if you’re making more than one.
6. Start packing and packing each section in your hand as if you were making a meat ball. ( repeat this for each one)
7. Then pat down the meat ball to make it look like a hamburger.
8. Then cooking like you would a regular hamburger.
9. Add more seasoning as desired while cooking.
In order to make the burger darker while cooking on the stove without burning it, allow the burger’s juices to begin to burn on the pot, and then pour small amounts of water. The water which now becomes dark will cook on to the top of the burger. This gives it a nicer look and gives it more flavors.

A very serious FYI: Regular hamburgers are so unhealthy full of low quality greasy meat. Not to mention that cattle in the us is are being feed a 90% corn diet and kept immobile rendering the cow so unhealthy they would ( if they weren’t killed) within 6 month.

Stay Healthy
Love
Cyndi

Always Coca Cola...

2009-08-15T02:16:00.000-07:00

Coca Cola has been my “drug” of choice for more than half of my life. I use the word drug because it is so addictive. I understand Coca Cola to be just as bad if not worse than alcohol on the body. It is poison, and although I have gone months without drinking it, I go back to it. It is my Kryptonite. It is truly an Addiction. I have been able to quit many bad habits without a problem, but Coca Cola seems to have a hold over me. When I do quit I spend a week or two suffering intense migraines, nausea, headaches and fatigue and in some instances depression. I have tried alternatives and many other type of “fuzzy” drinks, only to come right back to my dear COKE.

I attribute my weight gain in part to the excessive drinking of Coca Cola. For many years the only JUNK food I had been consuming on a daily basis was Coca Cola, and when I stopped drinking it for 3 months I lost 15lbs (no other changes made to my daily routine or food regimen except for not drinking Coca Cola).

Coca Cola Classic is 100 calories per 8fl oz, 35mg of sodium, 27grams of sugar and 27grams of carbohydrates. The ingredients on the label state that Coca Cola contains carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, and caffeine. It also states in larger bold font that it is low in sodium.

According to the American Heart Association it is recommended that adults who are healthy take in no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day. Coca Cola has 35 mg of sodium per every 8fl oz , which isn’t very much. Thus Coca Cola truly is low in sodium.

The maximum recommended daily intake for sugar is 100 grams. However those 100 grams of sugars are for natural sucrose found in fruits (and other natural products). The recommended maximum intake of added sugar is 40 grams. That means anything that has added sugar. For instance Coca Cola is a concoction made of many foods and is not a natural product, thus the sugars in Coca Cola are added sugar. It is stated that you should not have more than 40gram of added sugar per day. Coca Cola has 27 grams of sugar in every 8 fl oz that you drink. That is over ½ of your sugar intake in just a small glass. Most people drink a 24 oz bottle of Coca Cola, or more a day. Excess sugar turns into body fat and doesn’t allow Vitamin C to be absorbed in your body. “Also useful to know is that sugars enter your cells using the same pathway as Vitamin C Too much sugar also interrupts your immune system. This means that Vitamin C will not be absorbed you’re your body if you take in too much sugar. Not enough Vitamin C being absorbed into the body can cause an array of health problems including a decline in your immune system.
The nutritional facts on the Coca Cola Classic bottle do not state how much phosphoric acid also known as H3P O4 it contains. "Soft drinks have long been suspected of leading to lower calcium levels and higher phosphate levels in the blood. When phosphate levels are high andcalcium levels are low, calcium is pulled out of the bones. The phosphatecontent of soft drinks like Coca -Cola and Pepsi is very high, and theycontain virtually no calcium." Phosphoric acid is the ingredient in coke that cleans pennies and unclogs sinks. But did you know that due to the H3PO4 in Coca Cola, it can dissolve a tooth within a few days? In just one night Coca Cola can soften teeth.

The Coca Cola Classic nutritional facts label does not state how much caffeine is in it. Caffeine is a weak diuretic that causes calciumloss via the kidneys.
The Coca Cola Nutritional facts label does not state how much high fructose corn syrup is in Coca Cola. High-fructose corn syrup is produced by milling corn to produce corn starch, then processing that corn starch to yield corn syrup, which is almost entirely glucose, and then adding enzymes which change the glucose into fructose. The resulting syrup (after enzyme conversion) contains approximately 90% fructose and is HFCS 90. To make the other common forms of HFCS (HFCS 55 and HFCS 42) the HFCS 90 is mixed with 100% glucose corn syrup in the appropriate ratios to form the desired HFCS. ( www.wikipedia.com)

Research have linked HFCS to the United State’s obesity epidemic in the past. The latest research goes into further explaining why they are linked. The latest research shows how consuming a high amount of fructose affects the way the body responds to an appetite-controlling hormone known as leptin. When leptin resistance is combined with an unhealthy diet leads to weight gain obesity, and many of the diseases associated with obesity.

Mayco Clinic research when talking about high fructose corn syrup has stated that moderation [is] important. Many beverages and other processed foods [like Coca Cola] made with high-fructose corn syrup and other sweeteners are high in calories and low in nutritional value. Regularly including these products in your diet has the potential to promote obesity — which, in turn, promotes conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and coronary artery disease.
According to Health mad, high fructose corn syrups is very bad. On their website they have stated that, “ Since HFCS’s widespread introduction in the 1980’s North American obesity rates have skyrocketed. Obesity has been linked to may heath issues including heart disease and many forms of cancer. When HFCS is ingested, it travels straight to the liver which turns the sugary liquid into fat, and unlike other carbohydrates HFCS does not cause the pancreas to produce insulin; which acts as a hunger quenching signal to the brain. So we get stuck in a vicious cycle, eating food that gets immediately stored as fat and never feeling full.”

Although I strongly disagree in testing on animals, I have found interesting and sad information from research. Test that have been run rats eating high fructose corn syrup have yielded shocking results. The rats that have been fed high fructose corn syrup as their main food, liked 50% less long then those that did not. The rats also developed cancer and other horrible diseases.

Which this information gathered from researching how Coca Cola affects our body it is evident that Coca Cola is not a good source of nutritional value and had great adverse effects on our body of those including type 2 diabetes and obesity. If you are going to drink Coca Cola you should drink it in moderation. Perhaps it can become your special treat.
After my last attempt at quitting Coca Cola I have realized that Going cold turkey for me is far to painful. I have deiced that I will no longer buy Coke in my household except for a special occasion ( like a birthday), or at a restaurant (we do not go out to dinner often as it is hard finding vegetarian dishes and we never know the quality of the ingredients in foods.

More recipes to come like, a healthy hamburger, healthy mangu, and yummy muffins. I will also be working on another research to find out the benifts of Flax Seed.

Until then stay healthy!

Love

Cyndi

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www.betterhealthresearch.com
www.wikipedia.com
www.ask.com
www.mayoclinc.com

Cat Lover's Update

2009-08-11T23:54:00.000-07:00

Cat Lover’s Update

In continuing from the last pet nutrition post, http://holisticeating.blogspot.com/2009/08/cat-lovers.html

My Cat’s have loved the food thus far, and we will begin today with a new brand of wet food.
On August 12th 2009 we will by trying Sheba (although they enjoyed the cat food we had been feeding them, my husband and I are still trying to find the healthiest yet most affordable wet cat food). Sheba Premium Cuts; Chicken & Duck Dinner’s ingredients are far superior then the other wet can food we purchased, NutriPlan Turkey and Giblets dinner. Sheba does not have meat by products, but actual meat! Sheba is also a few cents more than NutriPlan.

The vitamins have made a huge difference in my cat’s health in just a few days. Both my cats London and Dublin have stopped shedding. I usually brush them every night and end up with fur all over me and the brush, but tonight there was no fur! I am very excited; I honestly didn’t expect the vitamins to work so quickly.

My cats however did not enjoy the diced up hard boiled eggs, and after two days I gave up on making them anymore.

I am over all very pleased with the results in such a short span of time, and it really makes me feel like a good cat mommy knowing that I have taken the steps to making them healthier.
Come back later to hear how my cats liked Sheba, how it affected them and if we can find healthier cat food.

Until then, stay healthy,
Love,

Cyndi

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P.S. For more information on Sheba Premium Cut: Chicken & Duck Dinner.
http://www.sheba.com/home.asp

Cyndi's French Style Green Beans

2009-08-11T21:01:00.000-07:00

· 1 bag of Green beans (about a lb.)
· 1 tablespoon of water
· 2 teaspoons of flax seed1 teaspoon pure Olive Oil
· 1 teaspoon lemon juice
· Lemon Pepper and Herbs- As desired
FYI: you can use more than a two tea spoon of flax seed if you would like. Flax seed has the healthy fats that your body needs. Flax seed also

helps slim your waist line.

· My choices for this dish
· bag of frozen green beans, but fresh is preferred
· Goya Puro Olive Oil
· Sicilia lemon juice
· BBQ Grill seasonings (they sell at CVS during the summer).
DIRECTIONS
1. Pour your green beans in a pot, set at low temperature with your table spoon of water.
2. Then pour your olive oil into your pot with the green beans, and stir lightly to evenly spread the olive oil
3. Pour your flax seed
4. Pour your lemon juice on to the green beans and the lemon pepper and herbs as desired.
5. Lightly stir so that all the ingredients

The next recipe will be home maid HEALTHY hamburger. Making this scrumptious recipe will take you less time than going to a fast food restaurant. It also tastes better, and will make you feel like you are being spoiled with a gourmet treat. Another bonus of this recipe is that it that is inexpensive. This recipe will be in just in time for the last summer holiday of the year, Labor day.

Love,
Cyndi

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Recipe: Cyndi's Summer Yummies

2009-08-09T21:45:00.000-07:00

Cyndi’s Summer Yummies
A feel good treat.

Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious way of adding more fruit to your daily intake? Or perhaps you’re a parent looking for ways to feed more fruit to your kids in a fun way.
Try this. I might even replace the ice cream I consume with this (which are full of sugar and fat, and way too many calories)... This treat might help you get a slimmer waste line, and feel healthier all around. :)

The ingredients are for 2 servings
One large banana
One large apple
One yogurt
Two small squares of dark chocolate

Cut the apple and banana into bite size slices (or smaller sizes if you desire), then open a small cup of yogurt and pour them all into a bowl and mix it up a little bit. The final step is to cut the two squares of dark chocolate into small pieces and sprinkle them onto you’re fruits. Voila! You have created a decorative and yummy treat. In order to use this to replace your ice cream put the bowl in the freezer and let it freeze over night. Make sure you are using a freezer safe dish!

Per Serving, This recipe serves 2

Calories: 172.5
Saturated fat: 2.8g
Cholesterol: less then 3mg
Sodium: 14g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Sugar: 21grams
Protein: 7.8g

I choose the brands that I found in my pantry and fridge and it was delicious; however this recipe can be modified using a darker chocolate, a yogurt with less sugar, and more fruits.

I used Yoplait Light fat free strawberry yogurt, for the chocolate I chose Hershey’s special dark chocolate: 2 squares, I used a regular banana and regular apple.

Links to the nutritional facts:
Banana: see here for more of the nutrition facts
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=7
Apple:
http://www.nutritiondata.com/facts/fruits-and-fruit-juices/1809/2
Yoplait light Fat free strawberry yogurt: http://www.peertrainer.com/DFcaloriecounterB.aspx?id=7038
Hershey’s Special Dark Chocolate: http://www.hersheys.com/products/details/hersheysbar.asp
Stayed tuned for my next recipe: Cyndi’s French Style Green Beans!

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Stay healthy,

Love

Cyndi

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My daily vitamins

2009-08-09T18:17:00.000-07:00

These are the vitamins I take on a daily or weekly basis. However I have a lot more vitamins that I take every once in a blue moon. I purchase my vitamins from http://www.puritan.com/ as they are not expensive, and always have deals.

I take Omega fish oil 1200mg , folic acid 400 mcg, acai 1000mg, hair skin and nails 3000 mcg,
lecithin 1200 mg, herbavision, prenatal vitamins, and melatonin 10mg and colon cleanser.
I never take these vitamins as recommended I just take them as I feel I need them. I am not pregnant however prenatal vitamins are wonderful for women, as they have a lot of vitamins that are needed and are great for your hair and skin (if you know me, I am obsessive about my hair and skin).

The hair skin and nails vitamins I purchased at CVS.

the next post will be on Coca Cola, make sure you follow me as I tried to get rid of my bad habit of drinking this TOXIC yet delicious soft drink. See you then!

Love,

Cyndi

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Our Fridge

2009-08-09T17:04:00.001-07:00

Our Fridge

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Grocery List

2009-08-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

I’ve decided to also add my household grocery list to see if it changes as I begin to learn more about food.

Grocery List August 9, 2009

• Fat free Yogurt
• Whole grain rice
• Black beans
• Guandules aka Pigeon peas
• Lentils
• Romaine Lettuce
• Arugula
• Baby Carrots
• Organic eggs ( 1 dozen) – this is for our cats
• Eggs 3 dozen
• Green Apples
• Green Grapes
• Whole grain pasta (3boxes)
• Heart Healthy Low sodium Pasta sauce 3bottles
• Low Fat or Non fat Parmesan cheese
• None fat milk (1 pint)
• Baby Spiniach
• Green bell peppers
• Turkey Ground Lean meat ( to make handburgers for my husband, I am however vegetarian ) (2)
• Vegetarian black bean burgers
• Onions (3)
• Whole grain whole wheat burger buns (2 bags)
• Gravy
• Almonds unsalted and uncooked
• Leek
• Light Cesar salad dressing
• Carbonated water
• Cherries
• Vegetarian ground beef
• Wet organic cat food with little to no carbs
• Potatoes (1 bag)
• Lemon juice

FYI: we tend to buy groceries for the non perishable items once a month and fruits and vegetables on weekly bases. We do this to ensure that the fruits and veggies stay as fresh as possible. Also to reduce our carbon foot-print even if by a little bit by driving less to the grocery store we often buy the non-perishables at the beginning of the month. We have been doing this for a few years and it has worked for us.

Keep in mind that my household consist of two young adults ( my husband and I are both 24) a one year old Yorkie Poo and two Cats both (which are just turned 3 years old. HAPPY BIRTHDAY).

Please notice I will not be purchasing Coca Cola anymore  YAY. The Coca Cola post will be up by the end of this week. It is a lot of research and I am currently enrolled in a Master’s Program at Clayton College of Natural Health and working as a Reiki Master/Practitioner, so my time is limited, and it will often take longer for the actual content blogs to be posted.

Love,

Cyndi

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Cat Lovers

2009-08-08T12:42:00.001-07:00

After viewing this video my husband and I decided to change their diet plan completely… They used to eat a mixture of both cat and dog dry food (they shared with our dog). We just picked up 3 cans of NutriPlan Turkey and Giblets dinner. I have not researched the best cat wet food, as we have just gotten back from a vacation in Salvo, NC and needed some cat food that wasn’t dry cat food. I will research soon which is the best and most affordable canned cat food we can buy.
Dublin and London (who are from the same litter and were born in August of 2006) are sharing a can of NutriPlan (wet cat food) a day, a hardboiled egg and water. In the wet cat food I have ground up some cat vitamins that I purchased from www.1800Petmeds.com. They are simple multi vitamins and a vitamin to help with hairballs. We have just started the plan today on August 9, 2009. We will make sure to keep you updated on any difference we see in our cat. The video states that cats will have to be eased into this food. I disagree, cats love wet food instead of dry food because it has so much flavor. The only down fall is that wet food is bad for our cats teeth! I will have to find out how to remedy that.

NurtiPlan’s ingredients: Meat by-products, poultry by-products, sufficient water for processing, turkey, poultry giblets, fish, guar gum, salt, titanium dioxide, carrageenan, potassium chloride, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins: E, A, D3,B2 supplements, thiamine mononitrate, niacin, d-calcium pantothenate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, riboflavin, iron sulfate, zinc oxide, copper proteinate, manganous sulfate, potassium iodine, sodium selenite, choline chloride, and taurine.
The Vitamins are Vita Chews and Shed terminator for cats. Both of these vitamins were purchased at http://www.1800pedmeds.com/

Love,

Cyndi

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Hi.

2009-08-08T03:49:00.000-07:00

Hi readers,

I am working very hard on finding the facts on my next post. The first post will be on Coca Cola.
Other topics to look forward to is Flaxseed’s benefits, Frozen Vegetables vs. canned or fresh vegetables, Whole wheat bread vs. fortified bread, whole grain pasta vs regular pasta. I will also write about salt and its effects on the human body.
To contact me please e-mail me at HolisticCyndi@aol.com or AIM me at HosliticCyndi.
Please visit my reiki site www.healing--touch.com to learn more about Energy work like Reiki, and Chakra work.
Thank you for following my blog. hopefully I will finish the Coca Cola research by the end of the weekend.

Ciao
Cyndi

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The beginning of my journey.

2009-08-05T18:24:00.000-07:00

My relationship with food has gone from love, hate, despise, and back to love. I have never truly understood what food was for. To many Americans food is just a substance that we enjoy. We normally could care less about what goes into our bodies, as long as it tastes good. The older and more internet savvy I became the more information I acquired about those comfort foods I have been indulging in for so many years. But the information never stopped me from eating the worse of foods. Perhaps because most of these ingredients in our food have such long names that I have no idea what I am truly putting into my body. The goals for this project I have undertaken are to become healthy while helping inform people about ingredients and chemicals that are in our foods (in hopes that we will learn to eat and be healthy together). It is also to record my journey to becoming a Holistic Nutritionist.

I will attempt to find out as much information as I can on products and food, and write small reports on what is in the food/product, what those ingredients mean and do, and how they affect me in the short term. If I continue to eat a food I will report how it has affected me in the long term. I will post information that I have found interesting and helpful as I continue my journey through my Master’s in Holistic Nutrition. I will also review literature and interview people (that have different eating habits (vegans, raw food eaters...) I will mainly be reviewing foods that I eat but I will eventually take requests once I have become better at researching, and find the best sources of information. As it is well known finding information on food can be difficult.
I will not give advice on what is the best food regimen or diet but I will tell you what works for me… As of right now, I do not know what works for me. Hopefully you will accompany me on my journey so that we may look back at our progress in our education and over all health.
I am very excited and I hope you are too!

Love,

Cyndi

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Me

2009-08-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

My name is Mrs. Cyndi Morel-DuPree. I was born on April 6th to Dominican parents in Massachusetts. I moved to Virginia for college where I graduated from George Mason University with a B.A in Government and International Politics. After graduating from GMU I have started my Master’s in Holistic Nutrition at Clayton College of Natural Health. I am also a Reiki Master/Practitioner who works with Chakras and Energy.

Love,

Cyndi

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