Tricia's Musings

Random Thoughts about life in general, living in the big city of Toronto



You are here: Home / Archives for Health Fitness and Beauty

6 Foods For Healthy Living

by

Vegetables

Living a healthy life includes a balance of regular exercise, taking care of your body and healthy eating. With so many different products out there now, it’s sometimes challenging to know what’s truly healthy and what’s a fraud. One food group you can know for certain is a healthy option is vegetables. If you’re looking to get the most out of eating healthy, make sure the following vegetables are part of your diet.

Beets

While earthy and subtly sweet, beets do indeed have the highest sugar content of any vegetable. On the other hand, beets are still low in calories, packed with fiber and rich in iron. Additionally, these vegetables are loaded with heart-healthy folic acid and the cancer-fighting antioxidant beta-carotene. Many people who choose to eat beets cut off the top leafs, which can be compared to Swiss chard. Believe it or not, these leafy greens that many of us throw out are actually more nutritious than the roots of the beet, with double the potassium, folic acid, calcium and iron.

Carrots

Carrots can be used in many ways, from desserts like carrot cake to a great snack with hummus. Aside from being slightly sweet and having a great crunch, carrots contain more carotenoids that any other veggie. Carotenoids is the antioxidant that gives carrots their yellow-orange pigment and may protect against certain types of cancer, heart disease and cataracts.

The beta-carotene in carrots is converted by the body into vitamin A which is an essential vitamin for healthy skin and a strong immune system. Additionally, carrots contain soluble fiber, vitamin C and bone-strengthening calcium.

Kale

Kale has recently grown in popularity with new, inventive ways to cook and eat this nutritious vegetable. Kale is an incredible source of vitamins A, B6 and C, along with fiber, iron and calcium. In all actuality, kale is one of the healthiest greens you can eat.

Kale contains more vitamin K than broccoli, spinach and Swiss chard. Kale also contains high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful phytochemicals that may help safeguard the eyes from conditions such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Brussels Sprouts

These small and leafy vegetables may not look like much, but they’re packed with nutrients that benefit the heart, boost the immune system and they even promote healthy skin. Being a member of the phytochemical-heavy cruciferous family, brussels sprouts are packed with healthy gluscosinolates which are thought to fight cancer.

Research has shown that eating these baby cabbages could possibly reduce the risk of premenopausal breast cancer. If that isn’t enough of a reason to love these little vegetables, they’re also full of vitamin A, C and folate.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are truly incredible vegetables. Similar to carrots, these bright colored potatoes are packed with beta-carotene and are good for vision, prevents certain types of cancer and boosts immunity. Sweet potatoes are low in calories, high in fiber and great for weight loss. They also contain high levels of folate, vitamins B6, C and E. Talk about a healthy potato! It doesn’t get any healthier than this.

Shiitake Mushrooms

Mushrooms in general are well known for their health benefits, but in particular, shiitake mushrooms really make a statement. They offer a lot in terms of fiber and protein, and also contain some iron, potassium and zinc, a vitamin which helps to keep the body’s immune system and boosts neurological function.

These vegetables may be some of the best for you, but there are many more out there that also have amazing health benefits. When it comes down to it, vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals that you really can’t get naturally from anything else. If you’re looking to live a long and healthy lifestyle, make sure your diet includes hefty portions of vegetables.

Marissa Bruce is a freelance writer and health activist. She studied health and nutrition before deciding to take her education a step further. She is now researching online nursing masters degree programs.





Use Caution When Using Insect Repellents

by

Many types of pests are not just irritating. Some creatures are scary not because of how they look or how much damage to property they can bring; these animals are terrifying because they can transmit life-threatening illnesses to people. Mosquitoes, for instance, are well-known vectors of several forms of viruses that cause encephalitis or brain inflammation. Other species cause malaria, dengue, and other dangerous diseases. Ticks also transmit microorganisms that cause typhus and Lyme disease. This is also the creature that carries the dreaded Crimean-Congo Viral Hemorrhagic fever virus that can easily decimate mankind in a few years.

With all these virulent organisms being carried around by common household pests, it’s really very important to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and especially our children from insects. However, we must also use insect repellents cautiously because these contain chemicals, such as permethrin, DEET, P-menthane 3.8 diol, and other alcohol derivatives. Such elements, in large and continuous applications, can cause not only skin irritation, but also cancer, kidney lesions, muscle spasms, seizures, and other grave disorders. So, here are some safety tips when using insect repellents.

1. Follow recommended use.

When instructions say that a product must only be applied every 4 hours, then do so. Do not reapply every 15 minutes because, generally, saturation will not improve a product’s effectiveness. In addition, you’ll be exposing yourself and your loved ones from higher doses of dangerous chemicals. In case you’re using permethrin or other chemicals that should not be applied on the skin, then be careful during application. Do not spray products on the clothes that you’re wearing, and make sure that you don’t spray the inner part of your clothing because this section touches the skin.

2. Be cautious when using repellents on children.

Always ask your pediatrician about what sort of repellents can be used on your kids. Some insect repellents, such as those that contain DEET, must not be used on infants. In addition, children below a certain age must only be exposed to a certain concentration of DEET. Therefore, ask your doctor about the level of DEET concentration that you can use on your child.

3. Obtain more information about insect repellents.

For more information regarding insect repellent use, you can visit the AAP or American Academy of Pediatrics website. The site has a lot of information regarding types of insect repellents, recommended frequency of application, and several safety tips. There, you’ll also be able to read about some common and serious adverse reactions that could be caused by regular and improper use of repellents.

AAP Recommendations:

– Repellents used on children should not exceed 30% DEET. Generally, the higher the DEET, the longer the protection lasts. But studies show that products that contain more than 30% DEET don’t provide extra protection.

– Insect repellents should never be used on infants, especially babies that are younger than 2 months.

– Insect repellents must never be sprayed directly onto the face. Also, it should not be used on open wounds or cuts.

Claire Brent is a freelance writer and a mother who also uses insect repellents on her child for mosquito and tick protection. She’s written this article in hopes of offering more information to everyone regarding the proper way to use insect repellents, especially on children. She also blogs for Preventive Pest Control, which is a reliable company that can help you out in case you’re place or grounds are inundated by ticks or mosquitoes.

5 Simple Ways to Prevent Unnecessary Weight Gain

by

Whether you are in college or at your first desk job, weight gain can sometimes be inevitable. There are ways to prevent it, you just need to be cautious of your actions. Here’s some of the most effective ways in preventing unnecessary flub.

Cut Out Fried Food

Yes, fried food is delicious but it certainly isn’t necessary in your daily diet. Opt for grilled food options rather than downing a basket of fried chicken fingers. If your restaurant order comes with fries, ask for a healthy alternative. This simple change can save you hundreds of calories, especially if you eat out a lot. Your body will thank you, and more importantly your waistline will love you.

Drink Water

Drinking water can save you so many calories throughout the day. Water has absolutely no calories and it helps filter the junk out of your system. It will also keep you hydrated and it even will make your skin look younger. With all of these benefits, there’s no reason to turn it down. Shoot for at least 8 glasses of water each day. If you need to jazz up your water with flavor, purchase strawberries or cucumbers to give your water a sweet taste.

Find More Reasons to Walk

Avoid being lazy at all costs. If your office or school has an elevator, opt for the stairs instead. Walk longer routes to class, and walk on your work breaks. The extra movement will keep your body active. Avoid parking your car close to any doors. There’s no excuses to sell yourself short. If it’s raining, just bring an umbrella.

Gym Membership

If you don’t want to walk more at work, invest in a gym membership. If you are at college, there is absolutely no excuses for not going to the gym since they provide students with a gym. Gym memberships can range in price so buy one that meets your needs. If you don’t plan to use group fitness programs, you can save yourself some serious cash by purchasing a basic membership. Commercial gyms like Planet Fitness offer $9.99 per month memberships.

Don’t Eat At Your Desk

When you are eating at your desk, you are not taking calorie consumption into account. Never have a bag of crackers, chips or anything to that extent open at your desk. This will cause you to reach into it for a handful every few minutes. Snack during your breaks. Avoid snacks like chips, and opt for healthy snacks like apples and granola. These snacks are healthy and they won’t hurt your waistline.

Marissa Bruce is very particular about her diet. She studied diet and nutrition before deciding to take her education a step further. She is now researching online nurse practitioner programs.

 

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Skin?

by

Do you like to indulge in the occasional glass of wine with dinner?  Is a night out with the girls – and plenty of Cosmos – a regular occurrence?  Good for you; it is important to let your hair down every once in awhile!

After all, some recent studies are suggesting that certain types of alcohol might improve heart heath and decrease the odds of cancer.

However, the key is…moderation.  A hangover is the worse type of retribution alcohol can have on your physical well-being.  Sure, after a few hours, your headache will go away and life will appear to return to normal.  However, the alcohol you consumed is still wreaking havoc below the surface – the surface of your skin, that is.

Why is Alcohol Bad for my Skin?

Water is like an internal moisturizer for your skin.  Each time you drink water, you’re boosting your skin’s health.  Staying hydrated will smooth wrinkles, causing skin to appear healthier and more youthful.

Alcohol and caffeine have the opposite effect on your skin.  You may find this surprising, but alcohol actually dehydrates your body.  Dehydrated skin causes wrinkles and premature aging; no woman wants that!  Additionally, when your skin is denied vital nutrients it begins to appear dull and unhealthy.

When we drink – especially during a night out on the town – we aren’t usually combining our alcoholic beverages with nutritious foods.  Again, choosing high-calorie junk food over nutrient-rich foods is just one more way we limit our skin’s access to much-needed vitamins and minerals.  Since our diet has a direct effect on establishing a healthy, youthful appearance, you can see why alcohol and junk food are such bad things!

Alcohol can make preexisting skin conditions – like rosacea and psoriasis – worse.  Flare-ups are often common after alcohol consumption.

Does That Mean I Should Stop Drinking Altogether?

You are the only one who can decide if alcohol is a safe and healthy addition to your life.  However, if you do indulge, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Remember moderation is best.  At the beginning of the night, set a limit for yourself.  When you reach that limit, stop.  Switch to diet soda or water if your girlfriends continue to imbibe.

Also, consider following each alcoholic beverage with a glass of water.  This will accomplish two things.  First of all, if you fill up on water, you won’t be tempted to drink as much alcohol.  Second, alternating between water and alcohol will counteract the dehydration the alcohol is causing.

Lastly, reach for healthy, nutrient-rich foods instead of greasy bar foods when you are drinking.  Grab a handful of peanuts instead of a handful of French fries.  Ask for a bag of popcorn as soon as it is done popping – and before they add salt and butter.  If you are battling a hangover, avoid any “secret recipes” that involve unhealthy food choices.

Each time you reach for a specialty martini or your favorite white wine, remember the effect each sip has on your skin.  Be smart about your alcohol consumption and do your best to stay hydrated.

Guest blogger Jessica Adams works for CustomCornToss.com, designing custom corn toss boards.  She often helps the other guys in the office test their products’ quality – which inevitably leads to drinking!  Luckily, Jessica is usually able to limit the rowdy group to just a few beverages each!

Flashing Hot: 3 Ways to Find Relief From Menopause Symptoms

by

If you are experiencing discomfort from some of the symptoms of menopause there are many treatments, therapies and home remedies which can provide you with some relief. Thankfully, many women only experience mild symptoms and do not require treatment to cope with their menopausal symptoms. However, this is not the case for the other women who face moderate to severe symptoms and will likely require some form of treatment.

Flashing Hot: 3 Ways to Find Relief From Menopause Symptoms

Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause can be an uncomfortable phase in a woman’s life. With hot flashes and night sweats, muscle aches and joint pain, and increased levels of stress and depression, it’s no wonder women are always on the lookout for new treatments. The menopausal symptoms experienced by each woman are as unique as the women themselves. That being said, there are some symptoms that are more common than others.

There are quite a number of possible physiological and psychological symptoms that can accompany menopause. Some of the more common physical symptoms are hot flashes, night sweats, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, and irregular periods. Many women will also experience mood swings, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Fortunately, there is quite a range of therapy options, including a variety of natural remedies and medical treatments to help ease both the physical and mental symptoms.

Medicinal Treatments for Menopausal Symptoms

For women who are suffering from menopausal symptoms, medical intervention may be needed. There are a number of medicinal options. The types of medication and over-the-counter medicines you could use depend on the symptom or symptoms you are trying to alleviate. Birth control pills can be effective for symptoms during perimenopause as they can help control irregular periods, hot flashes, moodiness and vaginal dryness. Additionally, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) can be effective for severe menopausal symptoms. Medications used to treat depression, epilepsy and high blood pressure can also be used to successfully treat hot flashes and moodiness.

Be sure to speak with your doctor about your symptoms and the best treatments available, as there are many possible side effects that can accompany hormone replacement therapies as well as other medical treatments. It is important to discuss your options with your doctor and weigh the risks versus the benefits of any therapies you are considering. You may find that you’d rather try some alternative therapies for your symptoms before trying medications or menopausal hormone therapy.

Natural Remedies for Menopausal Symptoms

If you’re reluctant to try medication to treat your symptoms or if your symptoms are fairly mild, there are a variety of natural remedies that you can try. Some of these remedies are massage (in particular, aromatherapy massage) aerobic exercise, yoga, stretching, and meditation. All of these methods can help to decrease stress and may also ease night sweats. Wearing light clothing or layering is also effective for managing night sweats.

Some other possibilities that can aid menopause relief are dietary changes, herbs, natural hormone replacement therapies, black cohosh, natural progesterone and vitamin E. Keep in mind that many of these therapies are unproven. Be sure to research any therapy you are considering and discuss it with your doctor, especially if there are risk factors involved.

There are a lot of options to treat menopausal symptoms. However, a therapy that works for one woman may not work for the next. These treatments are not a “one-size-fits-all” response to menopause. Finding a therapy that is effective for you is what really counts, and luckily, there are quite a number of options available.

To learn more about treatments and a new innovative therapy that relieves menopause symptoms be sure to visit the team at KuhlCare today.

Meta

Search this site

Tags

blog blogs camera Canada Chris computer crohns dinner dog Family flower flowers Food friends funny garden Gardening Green Thumb Sunday Health and Fitness Health Fitness and Beauty holiday home Home and Lifestyle house husband IBD Inflammatory bowel disease Internet Music neighbors pain photo photos plants puppy Shopping sick sleep spring Toronto TV Video visit website Wordless Wednesday