A Medium sized McDonald’s french fries has 380 calories. You’d have to do burpees for 38 minutes to burn it off.
BERRY GOOD FOR YOU BRAIN
According to research in the journal Neurology, eating berries on a regular basis may help shield you from Parkinson’s disease. In the study, those who ate the most strawberries and blueberries (two or more servings a week) were 23 percent less likely to develop Parkinson’s later in life than those who ate less. One theory: Berries are rich in anthocyanis, flavonoids that may trigger the production of protective brain enzymes, the researchers say.
VITAMIN C BETTER THAN YOUR ENERGY DRINK
Korean office workers who were given a high dose of vitamin C intravenously were less tired than those who received a placebo, especially if they were low in vitamin C before the treatment. The vitamin may reduce oxidative stress, which is thought to play a role in fatigue. More research is needed to know if swallowing vitamin C fights fatigue.
GREEN TEA FOR BETTER ORAL HEALTH
Israeli researchers who reviewed 18 studies report that green tea may fight cavities, bad breath, and oral cancer. According to the findings, published in the Archives of Oral Biology, green tea’s benefits boil down to its powerful polyphenols. It’s recommended drinking 24-ounces a day.
MUSSELS FOR YOUR MUSCLES
Mussels are low in fat and pack a big protein punch, 40 grams in 6-ounces. They’re also a good source of vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids.
U.K. researchers report that working with your hands can curb food cravings. When chocoholics played with modeling clay for 10 minutes, their desire to eat chocolate went away. Working with your hands engages your visouspatial memory, competing for the same brainpower that fuels those thoughts about having food cravings, says study author.
SKIPPING BREAKFAST? RETHINK IT
Harvard researchers say skipping breakfast increases your risk of developing diabetes. In the study, those who skipped it were 21 percent more likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes over a 16-year period than those who ate in the morning. Skipping breakfast throws your insulin levels out of whack, which can lead to reduced insulin sensitivity and eventually diabetes, says study author.
DID YOU KNOW
84 percent greater loss of visceral fat among exercisers, compared with calorie cutters.
KIDS AND BPA
Animal studies show that early exposure to the estrogen-mimicking chemical BPA (Bisphenol-A) causes permanent behavioral changes both developmentally and long term. Some studies suggest BPA may be as harmful to brain development as mercury exposure is for young children. Incidence of autism is twice as high for children exposed to vinyl floors compared to hardwood floors.To maximize health, minimize personal exposure to BPA, and especially protect young children from exposure through plastic food containers, flooring, plastic toys, and dental sealants.
FOODS THAT FIGHT CANCER
Many cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, onions and garlic act as histone inhibitors, which prevent histone from blocking tumor suppressor genes – thereby increasing protection from cancer. To minimize risk of cancer, consume cruciferous vegetables on a daily basis.
GENES NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR EVERYTHING
New research following the mapping of the human genome reveals that genes alone are not to blame for all disease manifestations. Reaction to the environment determines the expression of genes, suggesting we have much more control over our health than previously thought. Health can be greatly enhanced by positive thought, increased exercise and exposure to healthy foods. Health may be greatly depleted by stress, junk foods, and toxic exposures. Take responsibility for your health, and provide a positive environment for your genetic expression. Thoughts and positive actions are more powerful than your genes!
CHEMICALS AND BREAST CANCER
Examination of breast tissue samples from women with breast cancer show the presence of parabens 99% of the time. Additives found in many skin products and deodorants are absorbed unaltered through the skin directly, bypassing the protection of the digestive system.Many of the thousands of chemicals found in skin care products have never been tested for toxicity. Chemicals that mimic hormones have been found to cause cancer. To maximize health, read labels carefully on products you breath, or use anywhere on the body to minimize chemical exposure.
DON’T DRINK AND EAT
Studies show that consuming liquids with meals dilutes stomach acid and enzyme activity making digestion much more difficult. It is optimal to drink water between meals, at least 30 minutes prior to eating, and at least 1 hour after. Drinking water about 30 minutes before a meal may be helpful with weight loss, to create a sense of fullness. Drinking water in the evening (after meals) may also help prevent night-time snacking.
WELCOME TO FORTY
For the over 40 crowd, studies show that consumption of magnesium within 3 hours after a heart attack greatly minimizes heart damage, increasing positive outcomes. For preventative care, magnesium taken both morning and night (during the most stressful and likely times for a heart attack) can minimize stress on the heart, which may be helpful in preventing heart attacks. Magnesium is best absorbed in leafy green foods and nuts, but may be taken as supplements as well.
*Consult physician before trying a new supplement, food or diet. Especially if you’re on any medications.