Apple Cider Vinegar for Digestive Health

Until I found out how well organic apple cider vinegar worked for a variety of ailments, I was the type of person who had over-the-counter and herbal remedies for just about everything. Due to the stress of being a single parent and lifestyle factors, I’ve always suffered with digestive problems and had probably spent thousands of dollars over the years on antacids, and various natural supplements. They’d help a bit, but nothing actually did the trick. Although I’ve been on a tight budget since my divorce, I decided to change my diet. Searching online I found a wealth of information, … Continue reading

Peppermint For Digestive Health

Want to add an easy to grow, sweet smelling, aromatheraputic plant to your garden? Grow peppermint! Peppermint has long been used as a digestive aid. The ancient Egyptians used peppermint to soothe indigestion; modern herbalists recommend it for other stomach problems, too — like nausea, diarrhea, and even hiccups! Now research is showing that adding peppermint to your diet can help ease the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome! Peppermint helps ease stomach spasms because it has a relaxing effect on digestive tract muscles. The drawback is that you may see an increase in acid reflux or heartburn, because the peppermint … Continue reading

The Dirty Diaper and Your Child’s Health

According to a New York Times article, “In a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, researchers led by Anita Kozyrskyj found that babies born by C-Section vaginally, and that infants who were breast-fed had a different recipe of bacteria in their guts than those who were given formula.” And when it comes to health, specifically digestive heath and the immune system, it is the bacteria, or bugs, that count. Studies have long shown that children who have been delivered by C-Section have greater risks of certain illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes and obesity, as do children who were … Continue reading

Health Benefits of Red Cabbage

Everything in the cart was green and for goodness sake something with a little color had to be thrown in the mix.  Before my husband dashed away with the cart, I quickly exchanged the green cabbage with red cabbage.  He looked confused but decided not to ask since he knew this turn of events had to be based in my quirkiness.  He was right.  If truth be told, he is normally right, but you won’t tell him I said that, right? Upon looking up the benefits of red cabbage, my quirkiness was vindicated.  I could now tell my husband that … Continue reading

Health Benefits of Rosemary

Digestive Health Rosemary is often used to help treat digestive problems such as upset stomach, constipation, indigestion, and almost any other digestive related problem. It also helps to prevent foodborne illnesses when ingested with foods such as meat or eggs. Better Circulation Essential oil of rosemary is often applied topically as a natural remedy for poor circulation. However, that is one remedy you need to try for yourself as there is no proof it works. Immune Booster Rosemary boosts the immune system due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties. It benefits all over health due to all these properties. … Continue reading

Health Benefits of Ginger

Ginger is a favorite spice for Asian dishes, often combined with garlic and lemon. It also has health benefits that make it just as good for you as good to eat. I love the taste of ginger, especially ginger tea. My husband loves ginger dressing on his salads. Here is a recipe he really likes. Following the recipe, read about the many health benefits of ginger. Citrus Ginger Dressing 6 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 grapefruit or orange (with zest), peeled and seeded 1 1/2 tablespoons wine or balsamic vinegar 1 clove garlic 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated or sliced ginger 1/8 … Continue reading

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

Of all the vegetables in the produce aisle, I would have assumed the cauliflower had the least nutrition. For some reason it always appeared to me that cauliflower was filler or garnish. It just didn’t look terribly healthy to me. In fact, it looks like a replica of a brain if you look close enough. No? Perhaps, I’ve watched too much late night TV. However, to my surprise cauliflower is actually good for you. I realize that isn’t too surprising but it exceeded my expectations on some of the benefits. *Cauliflower is an excellent source of Vitamin C, manganese, and … Continue reading

Heart Sick: How Stress Destroys Health

Study after study shows that stress is a destroyer of health, causing disease and disability. The emotional toll of abuse is manifested in physical stress. Anger, guilt, and fear produce specific physiological reactions that wear down the body. Over time this stress produces physical symptoms that are impossible to ignore or medicate. These can include: – Digestive difficulties including ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome – Heartbeat irregularities – Chronic fatigue – Tightness of the chest – Difficulty breathing or hyperventilation – Muscle tension or shakiness – Headaches – Loss of appetite – Binge eating – Chronic illness such as colds … Continue reading

A Holiday Health Concern

This time of year it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday cheer. It’s infectious and the desire to spread that goodwill is encouraged. If you want to include your pets in the seasonal spirit, however, first consider these few words of caution. You might want to give your pet a special treat for the holidays, but depending on what that is it’s not a good idea. We let our guard down sometimes around our pets, and allow them to eat food we know isn’t directly harmful to them. And while doing so might not involve an emergency vet … Continue reading

Quinoa: Healthy Whole Grain

Have you heard of Quinoa? If not it is pronounced KEEN-WA. Quinoa is a whole grain with high fiber, iron, and contains eight essential amino acids. It was a staple with the ancient Incas in South America who called it the “mother grain”. It is a versatile grain which can be used like oatmeal or made like rice to go with any meal or any taste from sweet to herby. You can easily substitute wheat, flour (if you purchase the flour Quinoa), rice and oatmeal. Adding in Quinoa is easy since it is a snap to prepare. Cool Facts about … Continue reading