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Gut Health Problems - October 2017

In the ninth issue of Gut Health Problems, get ready to tackle achieving a natural detox, superfood smoothies, healthy fermented foods, and more. Fall is finally here and with it comes the changing of the leaves, lots of beer for Octoberfest, and autumn themed dishes everywhere. With our tips and guides, you can avoid gut distress during this time with ease.

In the ninth issue of Gut Health Problems, get ready to tackle achieving a natural detox, superfood smoothies, healthy fermented foods, and more. Fall is finally here and with it comes the changing of the leaves, lots of beer for Octoberfest, and autumn themed dishes everywhere. With our tips and guides, you can avoid gut distress during this time with ease.

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7 POINTERS FOR BEATING DIGESTIVE DISTRESS<br />

3 TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE BEST SOURCE OF OMEGA-3<br />

Issue 9 I <strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong><br />

8 HEALTHY<br />

FERMENTED<br />

FOODS<br />

A 6-PART GUIDETO USING<br />

PROBIOTICS<br />

DURING<br />

PREGNANCY<br />

10 AFTER-LUNCH<br />

ENERGY TIPS<br />

5 GREAT WAYS<br />

TO GET MORE<br />

CALCIUM<br />

10 TIPS TO<br />

PREVENT PMS<br />

NATURALLY


CONTENTS<br />

ISSUE 9 I OCT<strong>2017</strong><br />

08<br />

10 SURPRISING FACTS<br />

ABOUT CRANBERRIES<br />

22<br />

7 POINTERS FOR<br />

BEATING DIGESTIVE<br />

DISTRESS<br />

35<br />

5 GREAT WAYS TO GET<br />

MORE CALCIUM<br />

41<br />

10 AFTER-LUNCH<br />

ENERGY TIPS<br />

15<br />

4 TIPS TO HELP YOU<br />

ABSORB NUTRIENTS<br />

28<br />

5 TIPS TO FIND<br />

PALEO-FRIENDLY AND<br />

GMO-FREE TEA<br />

48<br />

7 TIPS YOU MUST SEE ON<br />

SUPERFOOD SMOOTHIES


ISSUE 9 I OCT<strong>2017</strong><br />

54<br />

3 TIPS FOR CHOOSING<br />

THE BEST SOURCE OF<br />

OMEGA-3<br />

61<br />

13 EASY WAYS TO ADD<br />

FIBER TO YOUR DIET<br />

76<br />

8 HEALTHY FERMENTED<br />

FOODS<br />

90<br />

A 6-PART GUIDE TO<br />

USING PROBIOTICS<br />

DURING PREGNANCY<br />

97<br />

5 TIPS FOR ACHIEVING A<br />

NATURAL DETOX<br />

69<br />

10 TIPS TO PREVENT<br />

PMS NATURALLY<br />

83<br />

5 WAYS TO GET THE<br />

PROBIOTICS YOU NEED<br />

104<br />

8 PROBIOTIC FOODS<br />

YOU SHOULD CONSIDER


LETTER FROM THE EDITOR<br />

Issue 9<br />

OCTOBER <strong>2017</strong><br />

Editor<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Writer<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Head of Creatives<br />

Nyvia Ross<br />

Lead Graphic Designer<br />

Michael Juanson<br />

Graphic Designer<br />

Rogelio Castino, Jr.<br />

Quality Assurance Editor<br />

Nicole Ross<br />

Junior Editor<br />

Keeneth Ross<br />

Digital Property<br />

Managers<br />

Maharlika Matutinao<br />

Layla Anaya<br />

Digital Property<br />

Assistants<br />

Krystine Sitjar<br />

Warren Nietes<br />

Welcome to the ninth issue of <strong>Gut</strong><br />

<strong>Health</strong> <strong>Problems</strong>! Fall is finally here<br />

and with it comes the changing<br />

of the leaves, lots of beer for<br />

<strong>October</strong>fest, and autumn themed<br />

dishes everywhere. With our tips and<br />

guides, you can avoid gut distress<br />

during this time with ease.<br />

In the last issue, we took you thorugh<br />

an overview of the vast benefits of<br />

probiotics, a checklist of foods rich<br />

in zinc, an intro to determining if you<br />

have fiber deficiency, and more. You<br />

learned about common GMO foods,<br />

good levels of prebiotics, and good<br />

digestive health. In this issue, get<br />

ready to tackle achieving a natural<br />

detox, superfood smoothies, healthy<br />

fermented foods, and more.<br />

Online Presence:<br />

www.guthealthproblems.com/<br />

Facebook<br />

Google+<br />

Twitter<br />

Tumblr<br />

Pinterest<br />

For advertising concerns<br />

please contact KJ Ross at<br />

kjross@authoritativecontentllc.com<br />

<strong>Gut</strong> <strong>Health</strong> <strong>Problems</strong> Magazine content<br />

cannot be copied or reproduced in any<br />

form without the written permission of<br />

the publishers. <strong>Gut</strong> <strong>Health</strong> <strong>Problems</strong>’<br />

editors and publishers shall not be held<br />

liable for any unsolicited materials. All<br />

prices and specifications published in<br />

this magazine are subject to change by<br />

manufacturers, agency and retailers.<br />

With Thanksgiving just around the<br />

corner, the time is nigh to put your<br />

gut in position to handle whatever<br />

you throw at it. Digestive discomfort,<br />

leaky gut, frequent gas, and more are<br />

all things that can be remedied with<br />

a few lifestyle changes. At <strong>Gut</strong> <strong>Health</strong><br />

<strong>Problems</strong>, we’re here to help. Thanks<br />

for reading, and do remember to<br />

have a look at our next issue!<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

SUSAN BARNES<br />

Editor<br />

<strong>Gut</strong> <strong>Health</strong> <strong>Problems</strong> Magazine<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 7


10 SURPRISING FACTS<br />

ABOUT CRANBERRIES<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Cranberries, aside from being enjoyed as sweets, are loaded with nutrients<br />

that helps fight diseases. Learn more about your bunch of cranberries here.<br />

Cranberries are<br />

one of the handful<br />

fruits native to<br />

North America.<br />

There’s no doubt<br />

that tiny, crimson cranberries<br />

make a delicious sauce to<br />

serve with turkey. But here are<br />

10 reasons why you should<br />

enjoy these nutrient-packed<br />

berries year-round.<br />

1<br />

THEY’RE RICH IN<br />

NUTRIENTS<br />

They may be little, but<br />

cranberries pack a big<br />

nutritional punch. A<br />

specific type of polyphenol<br />

in cranberries, called<br />

proanthocyanidins, interfere<br />

with the ability of specific<br />

strains of bacteria to cause<br />

infections, including urinary<br />

tract infections (UTIs).<br />

Research has also shown that<br />

they may have heart health<br />

and anti-cancer benefits. One<br />

cup of fresh berries or 1/2 cup<br />

8<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Energy level drop is likely felt during after-lunch hours; more so, after a meal. Read more on how to boost<br />

your energy and prevent after-lunch weariness. <br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

of dried cranberries equals a fruit serving.<br />

They’re also a good source of vitamin C,<br />

fiber and antioxidants.<br />

2<br />

THEY PREVENT URINARY<br />

TRACT INFECTIONS<br />

Cranberries are known for their ability<br />

to help maintain a healthy urinary tract.<br />

UTIs are typically treated with antibiotics,<br />

but as concerns over antibiotic resistance<br />

mount, more attention has been given<br />

to preventative measures, like cranberry<br />

intake. More than 70 studies have shown<br />

that cranberries may help reduce UTIs,<br />

especially in women experiencing recurring<br />

infections, making them a great alternative<br />

to antibiotic treatment.<br />

3<br />

THEY’RE NATURALLY<br />

VERY LOW IN SUGAR<br />

Cranberries are unlike most other popular<br />

berries that are naturally higher in sugar.<br />

They will make you pucker up because they<br />

just have 4 grams (1 teaspoon) of natural<br />

sugars per cup. That’s why cranberry juice,<br />

dried cranberries, and other cranberry<br />

products require some type of sweetener<br />

to make them palatable.<br />

4<br />

THEY’RE HEART SMART<br />

Cranberries have the same heartsmart<br />

flavonoids that are commonly found<br />

in red wine and grapes. These bioactive<br />

natural plant compounds help reduce<br />

risk for cardiovascular disease by helping<br />

reduce inflammation and inhibiting lowdensity<br />

lipoprotein oxidation and boosting<br />

the good high-density lipoprotein.<br />

Cranberries also help relax blood vessels<br />

to improve blood pressure.<br />

5<br />

THEY CAN BRIGHTEN YOUR SMILE<br />

Studies consistently reveal that the<br />

proanthocyanidins in cranberries can<br />

inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.<br />

These bacteria may cause plaque, cavities<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 9


and gum disease. Based on these studies, several brands of cranberry-infused toothpaste<br />

and mouthwash are readily available to improve your oral health.<br />

6<br />

THEY MAY HELP FIGHT<br />

STOMACH ULCERS<br />

Stomach ulcers are linked to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections, and studies show<br />

that cranberries can inhibit the growth of H. pylori. A randomized controlled trial of 189<br />

adults with H. pylori ulcers revealed that those who drank two servings of cranberry juice<br />

daily were more likely to test negative for H. pylori, compared to those who drank a placebo<br />

beverage. What’s more, if cranberries can help reduce bacterial infections, this could help<br />

manage the global issue of antibiotic resistance.<br />

7<br />

THEY’RE AUTHENTICALLY NORTH AMERICAN<br />

Cranberries, along with blueberries and Concord grapes, are one of three cultivated<br />

fruits that are native to North America. Native Americans used the cranberries for food and<br />

medicine, as well as a dye for clothes and blankets, as early as 1550. Some cranberry vines<br />

in Massachusetts are more than 150 years old. In addition to Massachusetts, the fruit is<br />

also grown in several other states, including Wisconsin and New Jersey, as well as in parts<br />

of Canada.<br />

10<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


8<br />

THEY’RE MORE THAN<br />

JUST A SAUCE THING<br />

Dried cranberries are available yearround,<br />

and they can pump up the flavor of<br />

everything, from breakfast foods to baked<br />

goods. Add them to hot or cold cereal,<br />

pancakes, yogurt, on top of salads, in side<br />

dishes, salsa, and baked goods. Two of the<br />

most favorite dried cranberry side dishes<br />

include the cranberry-couscous salad and<br />

the farro, cranberry, and goat cheese salad.<br />

9<br />

THEY DON’T GROW IN<br />

OR UNDER WATER<br />

It’s a common misconception that<br />

cranberries are grown in water. In fact,<br />

the fruit is grown on trailing vines in sandy<br />

bogs or marshes. Water is used during a socalled<br />

“wet” harvest because each berry has<br />

an air pocket so they float and can be easily<br />

collected. Cranberries are also harvested<br />

using a “dry” method with mechanical<br />

pickers that comb the berries off the vines.<br />

THEY’RE ALSO KNOWN AS ATOQUA AND IBIMI<br />

Native American tribes had different names for cranberries. To Easter Indians,<br />

they were “Sassamanesh.” Cape Cod Pequots and South Jersey Leni-Lenape tribes called<br />

them “Ibimi” or bitter berry. And the Algonquins of Wisconsin dubbed the crimsoncolored<br />

fruit “Atoqua.” The Pilgrims called the fruit “crane berry” because of the flower’s<br />

resemblance to the head and bill of a crane.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 11


4 TIPS TO HELP YOU<br />

ABSORB NUTRIENTS<br />

by<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Nutrients are essential elements that will make your body function better.<br />

Here are tips to guide you in obtaining natural nutrients your body needs.<br />

Everyone needs vitamins and<br />

minerals, and it is encouraged<br />

that you absorb nutrients<br />

through foods rather than<br />

complementary medicines.<br />

The reason is that foods will give you<br />

full trace elements and nutrients by a<br />

complex mechanism, thus helping your<br />

body consume them better. For example,<br />

strawberries, except for vitamin C, also<br />

contain potassium, manganese and folate<br />

bronze, magnesium, niacin, zinc and vitamin<br />

C; those nutrients working together will<br />

bring more benefits than taking separated<br />

support drugs. It would also be more<br />

interesting if you directly eat fresh foods,<br />

however, will they help you absorb enough<br />

nutrients and vitamins per day? If you are<br />

still worried about this matter, review the<br />

4 types of natural nutrients below.<br />

1<br />

CALCIUM FOR STRONG BONES<br />

AND TEETH<br />

Ninety-nine percent of calcium in the body<br />

is stored in bones and teeth. Calcium plays<br />

a major role in preventing osteoporosis and<br />

supports effectively for the communication<br />

of the nervous system, muscle contraction,<br />

hormone, and enzyme regulation. Dairy<br />

products are usually composed of high-<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 15


Calcium is what keeps your bones healthy. With the wide variety of calcium sources available, here are<br />

a few quick grabs for loading up your calcium intake.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

calcium content, but you need to note that there are other products which can make you<br />

gain perfect RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) indicator.<br />

2<br />

VITAMIN C FOR CELL CHAIN SYNTHESIS<br />

Vitamin C helps you beat the damage process from the root of cells and DNA,<br />

accelerate the synthesis of cell chain, and heal wounds. Also, Vitamin C can increase the<br />

HDL cholesterol (a kind of cholesterol which is good for health), support bone growth,<br />

and help the body absorb iron. It is recommended that you to eat both foods which<br />

are rich in vitamin C and iron to maximize the benefits of the 2 nutrients. Citrus fruits<br />

like oranges and grapefruits are full of vitamins. Aside from those, vegetables like kale,<br />

broccoli and other fruits like peach or apricot also helps you to absorb 75 milligrams of<br />

vitamin C each day.<br />

16<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


3<br />

IRON FOR HEMOGLOBIN PRODUCTION<br />

Iron is an important compound which forms hemoglobin - a kind of protein in blood<br />

cells that help produce energy. If the body has too little of iron, it could get weak, pale, and<br />

tired easily. Premenopausal women need to pay special attention to the RDA indicator<br />

of iron in the body because iron decreases during menopause. You can choose a dish of<br />

beef liver to provide iron, but it’s a fortune that there are many other cheaper foods that<br />

you can try like vegetables, beans, and other parts of beef. After the menopause, women<br />

will need less iron than other stages - just 8 milligrams or 44% of RDA indicator for iron.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 17


4<br />

OMEGA-3 FOR BRAIN HEALTH<br />

Omega brings many magical benefits for your heart by not only decreasing<br />

blood pressure but also preventing from arteriosclerosis. It helps you get stronger<br />

skin and sharper memory. Aside from that, it also helps you get a positive mind; this<br />

is why depressed patients are advised to eat many foods which are rich in omega-3.<br />

Fish is considered food rich in omega-3 content, but it also composed of quicksilver,<br />

which worries us when we use fish as main source of omega.<br />

FDA recommends that women who are or are about to become pregnant shouldn’t eat<br />

more than 12 ounces of fish having lowest quicksilver content per week. However, you<br />

can absorb enough omega-3 with 1.1 grams per day by fruits and vegetables.<br />

18<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


7 POINTERS FOR BEATING<br />

DIGESTIVE DISTRESS<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Follow Us:<br />

From ditching junk food to boosting your fiber intake, there are ways to avoid<br />

digestive problems. Here are the top pointers you should consider trying.<br />

Digestive distress is<br />

never fun. When<br />

your system isn’t<br />

happy with you,<br />

it can really drag<br />

down what may have otherwise<br />

been a great day. These<br />

pointers will show you how you<br />

can minimize digestive issues.<br />

1<br />

DON’T FORGET<br />

THE PRODUCE<br />

Making sure you’re getting<br />

enough nutrients shouldn’t be<br />

overlooked during the holidays.<br />

You still need adequate servings<br />

of fruits and vegetables every<br />

day for your body to use as fuel.<br />

A great way to get the pop you<br />

need is with a morning green<br />

shake. Shakes are an easy way<br />

to consume a ton of nutrition<br />

first thing in the morning. It<br />

starts your bodily functions off<br />

on the right foot. There are tons<br />

of possible combinations for<br />

shakes. Find a blend you love<br />

and be consistent.<br />

22<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Looking for new ways to get your hands on some probiotics? Look no further than 5 delicious options.<br />

<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

2<br />

DITCH THE JUNK WHEN YOU CAN<br />

If you have a slew of holiday<br />

gatherings on your calendar, do what you<br />

can to eliminate the junk before and after.<br />

Avoid fast foods or pre-made foods and<br />

opt for fresh choices to offset the influx of<br />

fatty, sugary foods.<br />

3<br />

PLAN FOR HIGHLY<br />

INFLAMMATORY FOODS<br />

You’re going to have access to Aunt<br />

Cindy’s “special punch” or your co-worker’s<br />

homemade fudge so plan accordingly. Foods<br />

high in unhealthy fat, sugar, and alcohol<br />

are naturally inflammatory. Scientists have<br />

proven through countless studies that<br />

excess inflammation aggravates digestive<br />

distress more than anything else. Pack<br />

your body with real nutrition (before the<br />

junk) and hydrate with water between<br />

servings of alcohol. The morning after a<br />

night of overindulgence, give your body<br />

time to recover with light, natural foods.<br />

4<br />

BOOST YOUR FIBER INTAKE<br />

Many recipes popular during the<br />

holidays feature an unusual amount of<br />

dairy, meats, unhealthy fats, and sugar that<br />

make it harder for your gut to do its job.<br />

These foods take a lot longer to process.<br />

The result is a system that’s bogged down<br />

in heavy foods that aren’t going anywhere<br />

(if you get my meaning). Staying regular<br />

during the holidays is something most<br />

don’t think about until the digestive<br />

distress is impossible to ignore. A morning<br />

shake with a bit of broccoli, spinach, flax<br />

seed, and coconut oil is one way to ensure<br />

you’re getting the fiber your body needs to<br />

function. Another is to boost your intake of<br />

probiotic foods such as live-culture yogurt,<br />

pickled foods, and leafy greens.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 23


5<br />

DON’T FORGET TO HYDRATE<br />

I highly recommend a glass of room temperature lemon water in the morning and<br />

at least 60 ounces of water daily (infused if you hate water). A friend of mine replaces<br />

some of her “water requirement” with two cups of green tea (hot or iced, sweetened with<br />

honey or maple sugar) daily. Green tea and coffee in moderation have incredible health<br />

benefits for the human body. You don’t have to be miserable trying to choke down plain<br />

water. The key is to hydrate without high-sugar coffees, energy drinks, or carbonated<br />

beverages in the mix. Water is critical but infusing it with berries or citrus makes it far<br />

more powerful.<br />

6<br />

SLOW DOWN DURING MEALS<br />

Every meal should be a marathon (not<br />

a sprint) to help avoid digestive distress such<br />

as cramping and gas. Take your time and<br />

chew your food thoroughly to make it easier<br />

for your stomach fluids to process what you<br />

eat. Avoid drinking too much during meals<br />

because it dilutes the natural acids that break<br />

down food. Not only is slowing down good<br />

for digestion, it also gives your body time to<br />

send signals of “fullness” to your brain. That<br />

means less risk of leaving the table with a<br />

“food baby” that makes you miserable.<br />

7<br />

GIVE YOUR GUT THE<br />

NECESSARY TOOLS TO<br />

FIGHT DIGESTIVE DISTRESS<br />

Raw veggies provide powerful fiber,<br />

fatty fish and healthy oils (like olive and<br />

coconut oil), supply you with important<br />

omega-3 fatty acids; probiotic foods boost<br />

good gut bacteria, and a tiny pinch of sea<br />

salt aids in nutrient absorption. Having a<br />

good mix of various food types is always<br />

a good idea to provide the necessary<br />

fuel to keep your bodily functions<br />

going strong.<br />

24<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


5 TIPS TO FIND<br />

PALEO-FRIENDLY AND<br />

GMO-FREE TEA<br />

by<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Tea with GMO content may cause undesirable effects on your immune system.<br />

Read on to learn some helpful tips in spotting high quality, GMO-free teas.<br />

If you’re a tea lover, and your<br />

body reacts and you’re not sure<br />

why, remember you’re not crazy.<br />

Most likely, there’s something<br />

in the tea that triggers your<br />

immune system. Here’s a simple guide to<br />

your choices and help you avoid getting a<br />

dose of GMO, and stick to your Paleo lifestyle.<br />

1<br />

ALWAYS READ THE INGREDIENTS<br />

If you see barley malt, chicory root,<br />

maltodextrin, soy, or “natural flavors” listed,<br />

steer clear. Also avoid any tea that has<br />

added stevia. Some people celebrate this<br />

sweetener, but it feeds bad bacteria way<br />

worse than other natural sugars; simple,<br />

organic, and pure honey works best.<br />

28<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Detoxifying is an effective way in removing toxins from your body. Read on and learn more on how to<br />

achieve natural detox for a more healthier you.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

2<br />

HERBAL IS USUALLY SAFER<br />

Choosing peppermint or chamomile<br />

are usually safe bets since the ingredients<br />

tend to be limited to just the herb. The<br />

mixed herbal products are more likely to<br />

add fillers and artificial flavoring. You may<br />

want to double check the labels on those.<br />

3<br />

CHOOSE GREAT TASTING,<br />

HIGHER QUALITY TEAS<br />

The trendier, more creative, or fancier<br />

the tea tries to be, they more often use<br />

some kind of filler or sweetener. It is<br />

better to buy a gluten-free tea like Red<br />

Rose, then add your own spices for more<br />

flavoring. If you make your own flavored<br />

tea at home, you can avoid cheap fillers<br />

like barley, corn, or sugar. Please note,<br />

higher quality tea doesn’t always mean<br />

more expensive. It’s all about how<br />

it’s processed and the quality of the<br />

tea leaves.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 29


4<br />

BUY ORGANIC<br />

When you buy organic, you will avoid harmful pesticides and chemicals. Buying<br />

organic doesn’t mean the ingredients used aren’t genetically modified in some way;<br />

however, if you read Wheat Belly, you’ll learn today’s grains are all genetically modified<br />

which is why so many immune systems are rebelling. Labels that state gluten-free, organic<br />

and GMO-free are ideal. Fair-trade adds an additional feel-good perk.<br />

30<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


5<br />

KNOW YOUR BRANDS, AND KEEP THEM ON-HAND<br />

The safest, purest tea brands right now are Traditional Medicinals, Rishi and Numi.<br />

You can bring tea bags with you when you travel, go to restaurants, and people’s homes.<br />

Avoid the following teas because of pesticides, chemicals and/or GMO’s: Lipton, Celestial<br />

Seasonings, Tazo, Twinings, Mighty Leaf, Trader Joe’s, Tetley, and Republic of Tea. Even<br />

if soy, corn, or grains aren’t listed in the ingredients, many tea bags are made from GMO<br />

corn and sometimes gluten is in the glue that holds the bags together.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 31


5 GREAT WAYS<br />

TO GET MORE CALCIUM<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Calcium is what keeps your bones healthy. With the wide variety of calcium<br />

sources available, here a are few quick grabs for loading up your calcium intake.<br />

Bone up on your calcium knowledge and ensure your bones stay healthy with<br />

these tips and tricks. The dairy industry would like us to believe that milk<br />

builds strong bones, so they spend hundreds of millions of dollars a year<br />

on advertising milk and cheese. A 12-year Harvard study of 78,000 women<br />

demonstrated that those who drank the most milk broke more bones than<br />

women who rarely drank milk. Evidence from around the world shows that in countries<br />

where dairy intake is highest, osteoporosis is most prevalent. Where dairy is seldom<br />

consumed, bones remain strong into old age.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 35


Nutrients are essential elements that will make your body function better. Here are tips to guide you in obtaining<br />

natural nutrients your body needs.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH CALCIUM?<br />

While people certainly don’t need<br />

milk, calcium is needed to keep the<br />

bones healthy. The good news is that a<br />

plethora of vegetarian foods including<br />

beans and greens, dried fruit, nuts and<br />

seeds, and fortified juice and soymilk-all<br />

provide ample calcium. The World <strong>Health</strong><br />

Organization recommends we consume<br />

1000 milligrams of calcium every day,<br />

while the recommended daily allowance<br />

in North America and developed countries<br />

where people eat a high-protein, high-salt<br />

diet is 1000 to 1300 milligrams a day.<br />

CALCIUM-RICH FOODS<br />

One cup of cooked collards has 385 mg of<br />

calcium, 1 cup of fortified orange juice has<br />

350 mg, and 10 medium dried figs contains<br />

269 mg of calcium. One-half cup of tofu has<br />

258 mg of calcium, 1 cup of cooked white<br />

beans contains 161 mg, and 1 cup of cooked<br />

mustard greens contains up to 150 mg of<br />

calcium. Other calcium-rich foods are navy<br />

beans (1 cup cooked): 128 mg, kale (1 cup<br />

cooked): 94 mg, chickpeas (1 cup cooked):<br />

80 mg, and raisins (2/3 cups): 80 mg. Now<br />

that you’re armed with knowledge about<br />

the bone-boosting calcium in your favorite<br />

menu items, try these quick and easy ways<br />

to create scrumptious snacks and meals<br />

using plant-based, calcium-rich foods:<br />

1<br />

CALCIUM-ENRICHED SOY<br />

OR NUT MILK<br />

Soy milk and nut milk are good alternatives<br />

to dairy milk. Pour some calcium-enriched<br />

soymilk or nut milk on breakfast cereal.<br />

You may sprinkle some raisins on top for<br />

added texture.<br />

2<br />

GRAB SOME HEALTHY<br />

GREEN SALAD<br />

Add kale, collard greens, or mustard greens<br />

to salads. Chop up a few dried figs and toss<br />

them in to add calcium-packed sweetness.<br />

36<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Vegetables in salads are also good sources of insoluble fiber, which keeps your digestive<br />

tract healthy.<br />

3<br />

SWITCH TO KALE OR COLLARD<br />

A sandwich is one of the easiest foods to whip up when you’re in a rush. You can<br />

add anything you want to your sandwich. However, try to use kale or collard greens on<br />

sandwiches instead of the usual lettuce.<br />

4<br />

ADD SILKEN TOFU TO SMOOTHIE<br />

Fruit smoothies can provide you with essential vitamins and minerals that your<br />

body needs. The amount of vitamins you’ll get depends on the fruits and vegetables you<br />

choose for the smoothie. Add a few tablespoons of silken tofu to a fruit smoothie to<br />

boost your calcium intake.<br />

5<br />

LOAD UP ON BEANS<br />

Beans are high in calcium. Try to include beans in your recipes to get more calcium. You<br />

may add beans to salads, mash them on toast, or cook with some veggie dogs.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 37


10 AFTER-LUNCH<br />

ENERGY TIPS<br />

by<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Energy level drop is likely felt during after-lunch hours; more so, after a meal.<br />

Read more on how to boost your energy and prevent after-lunch weariness.<br />

Ever catch yourself stifling a<br />

yawn after lunch? Blame your<br />

body’s circadian rhythm, which<br />

controls when you sleep and<br />

wake up. There’s a natural lull<br />

in the rhythm that occurs around lunchtime<br />

and makes people prone to sleepiness.<br />

What’s more, digesting that chicken<br />

sandwich can add to the drowsiness. Blood<br />

sugar levels rise as you start processing<br />

your meal, but as those levels gradually<br />

fall (about an hour after you eat) so do<br />

your energy levels. Here’s how to minimize<br />

post-lunch fatigue and power through<br />

the afternoon.<br />

1<br />

GET SOME EXERCISE ON<br />

YOUR LUNCH HOUR<br />

Physical activity improves blood flow,<br />

providing oxygen and nutrients to muscle<br />

tissue and naturally increasing energy. It is<br />

recommended that you do some exercise<br />

before afternoon drowsiness kicks in. You<br />

can stretch, take the stairs instead of the<br />

elevator, or walk around your building;<br />

simply getting away from your desk can reenergize<br />

you. Not taking a break during lunch<br />

can increase fatigue and unproductivity.<br />

Even better, take your exercise break by<br />

walking to a nearby park. A study showed<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 41


Cranberries, aside from being enjoyed as sweets, are loaded with nutrients that helps fight diseases.<br />

Learn more about your bunch of cranberries here. <br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

that being in a park-like environment<br />

helped participants perform better on<br />

memory and attention tests; they did not<br />

perform better when they walked down a<br />

busy street. Nature engages involuntary<br />

attention, where you can notice an object<br />

without thinking about it intensely. This<br />

lets the brain recover from direct attention,<br />

which requires active focus needed to<br />

work on a project or monitor car traffic<br />

when crossing the street. This is why you<br />

feel more revitalized after sitting in a park<br />

than strolling around downtown.<br />

2<br />

LET ANIMALS BOOST<br />

YOUR ENERGY<br />

A study from the University of Missouri College<br />

of Veterinary Medicine showed that interacting<br />

with animals increases the hormone oxytocin,<br />

which inhibits stress hormones and makes<br />

people more calm and focused. Thinking<br />

about your pet triggers these same effects.<br />

Keep a picture of your pet on your desk and<br />

let thoughts of after-work cuddles motivate<br />

you through afternoon slumps. Or hit up the<br />

Internet and watch videos of cats to increase<br />

your energy and positive emotions.<br />

42<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


3<br />

TIME YOUR COFFEE BREAKS RIGHT<br />

Coffee is a go-to energy booster, but don’t wait too long after lunch to drink it.<br />

Many people may think the caffeine is okay as long as you have it before dinnertime,<br />

but even mid-afternoon caffeine could linger in your body and affect your ability to fall<br />

asleep at night. This creates a vicious cycle that could leave you feeling tired the next<br />

afternoon. It takes most people three to seven hours to get rid of half the caffeine they<br />

consume; your ideal last cup should be around 2 PM.<br />

4<br />

CHEW ON THIS<br />

A study found that students who<br />

chewed gum right before, but not during,<br />

a test performed better than those who<br />

did not chew gum especially on portions<br />

that tested memory and recall. Don’t<br />

overdo it, though. Researchers found that<br />

chewing for longer than 15 to 20 minutes<br />

can actually decrease mental stimulation.<br />

5<br />

BEFRIEND THE WATER COOLER<br />

A Journal of Nutrition study found<br />

that being dehydrated can cause fatigue,<br />

low mood, and difficulty concentrating.<br />

You’re already dehydrated after going<br />

through the night without drinking, so start<br />

your day with a big glass of water and keep<br />

sipping liquids throughout the day. Though<br />

no hard evidence backs up the “8 by 8” rule<br />

(drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water each<br />

day), it’s a good general guideline to follow.<br />

6<br />

TUNE INTO YOUR FAVORITE TUNES<br />

Listening to music while you work can<br />

increase productivity. In a study conducted,<br />

56 participants listened to music at work<br />

for three weeks. When they did not listen to<br />

music, their quality of work was lowest, and<br />

they took longer to complete tasks. However,<br />

some supervisors may see headphones as<br />

a distraction, so double check with your<br />

company’s music policy before hitting play.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 43


7<br />

SLOW DOWN ON FAST FOOD<br />

The refined grains in processed foods<br />

like a white-bread sandwich or bun can get<br />

digested quickly and accelerates the blood<br />

sugar spike and dip that contributes to<br />

an energy slump. You may feel more alert<br />

initially, but a quick drop in blood sugar will<br />

leave you sluggish. The most energizing<br />

meals include both protein (lean meat,<br />

fish, and eggs) and complex carbohydrates<br />

(whole grains and legumes). Leafy greens<br />

like kale and spinach provide iron, which<br />

may help decrease fatigue.<br />

8<br />

TRY TO THINK SMALL<br />

In terms of your lunch size, that is.<br />

An oversized meal slows down digestion<br />

and gives you that uncomfortable, bloated<br />

feeling. Use smaller containers when<br />

you bring lunch from home; filling them<br />

up can trick your mind into thinking<br />

you’re eating more than you actually are.<br />

If you dine out, have your waiter box up half<br />

of your meal before he brings it to the table.<br />

If your meal comes with a side of chips or<br />

fries, ask if you can substitute it for veggies<br />

or fruits or not get one at all. Wait 20 minutes<br />

before grabbing a second helping; that’s<br />

how long it takes for your brain to signal to<br />

your stomach that you are full.<br />

9<br />

DON’T SKIP LUNCH<br />

You may default to delaying lunch<br />

when you’re swamped. But you should never<br />

go more than four or five hours without<br />

eating. If your meals are more spread out,<br />

try to have some snack that combines<br />

protein with complex carbohydrates. Think<br />

hummus and vegetables, whole-wheat<br />

toast with peanut butter, or Greek yogurt<br />

and fruit.<br />

KEEP A SOUND SLEEP SCHEDULE<br />

People need an average of seven<br />

to eight hours of sleep per night to function<br />

properly, but 40 percent of Americans<br />

shortchange their slumber. That lack of<br />

sleep can make your circadian rhythm’s<br />

afternoon dip feel even stronger. You may<br />

be tired during the day and feel it even<br />

more intensely in the early afternoon.<br />

44<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


7 TIPS YOU MUST SEE<br />

ON SUPERFOOD<br />

SMOOTHIES<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Superfood smoothies are not only great for weight loss but also easy to make.<br />

Learn more with these helpful tips on how to create your next super smoothie!<br />

What do you think<br />

about when you<br />

hear “superfood<br />

smoothie”? Most<br />

people associate<br />

qualities of extreme health,<br />

great for weight loss, low<br />

fat, and easy to make. While<br />

those things are all true, there<br />

are some details you should<br />

keep in mind when making<br />

superfood smoothies. Below<br />

are tips on what to do, and<br />

avoid, in order to get the most<br />

of these delicious, nutritious,<br />

and filling drinks.<br />

1<br />

FREEZE YOUR<br />

BANANAS<br />

When you buy a bunch of<br />

bananas, peel all of them and<br />

cut them into 1/2 inch slices. Put<br />

them into an airtight container<br />

and freeze. Frozen bananas<br />

puree wonderfully and make your<br />

smoothies creamier. They also<br />

allow you to use less of a banana<br />

and more fruits or vegetables<br />

48<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Calcium is what keeps your bones healthy. With the wide variety of calcium sources available, here are a few<br />

quick grabs for loading up your calcium intake.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

with less sugar content. Frozen bananas would<br />

work great in our Fountain of Youth Smoothie.<br />

2<br />

USE NATURAL FLAVOR ENHANCERS<br />

Sprinkle cinnamon or cayenne into<br />

your superfood smoothies for added flavor.<br />

You can also use the zest from citrus fruits like<br />

oranges, lemons and limes for an added kick.<br />

Ginger is a great added flavor, too, like in this<br />

Pomegranate Banana Ginger Blast smoothie.<br />

3<br />

USE WATER TO THIN<br />

OUT YOUR SMOOTHIE<br />

If your smoothie isn’t pureeing enough for<br />

you to drink it, add water instead of fruit<br />

juices. Fruit juices are often high in sugar.<br />

Almond milk and soy milk are also an<br />

alternative to thin out a smoothie without<br />

adding too many additional calories.<br />

4<br />

USE VEGETABLES IN<br />

YOUR SMOOTHIE<br />

Kale, spinach, fresh herbs, and broccoli are<br />

great green items to add to your smoothie<br />

without comprising flavor. You can also<br />

boil red beets and carrot for a heartier<br />

flavor. Using vegetables in your smoothie<br />

not only gives out incredible flavor but<br />

bonus nutrients as well.<br />

5<br />

AVOID BUYING CHEAP YOGURT<br />

The flavors and prices of the yogurt<br />

in the dairy aisle might seem intriguing,<br />

but leave them on the shelf. Opt for nonfat<br />

Greek yogurt if you want to use yogurt<br />

in your smoothie. Greek yogurt provides<br />

up to twice the protein content of regular<br />

yogurt for the same amount of calories,<br />

making it more satisfying.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 49


6<br />

AVOID BUYING SMOOTHIES WHILE EATING OUT<br />

Unless you absolutely have to. Not all smoothies are created equal! When you<br />

order out you don’t know exactly what products are being put into your smoothie. Try to<br />

keep it as natural as possible while ordering, and avoid the add-ons like peanut butter<br />

and protein powder unless you know exactly how much they are using.<br />

7<br />

AVOID GOING OVERBOARD<br />

Try to keep the variety to a minimum when making one smoothie. This is to<br />

maximize the nutritional benefits of those particular fruits and vegetables. Similarly,<br />

fruit is healthy, but it’s also very high in sugar. Watch your intake by only making your<br />

smoothie 50% fruit and compensate by adding vegetables. Try the four Mean Green<br />

Juices to incorporate more leafy greens.<br />

50<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


3 TIPS FOR CHOOSING<br />

THE BEST SOURCE<br />

OF OMEGA-3<br />

by<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Omega-3 is the useful fatty acids that are primarily found in certain fish oils.<br />

Read more for helpful tips on getting these omega-3s from its best sources.<br />

Are you suffering from heart<br />

illnesses? Have blood circulation<br />

problems resulted in high blood<br />

pressure? A lot of people do!<br />

These health problems are<br />

affecting both the young and the old due<br />

to different factors. Stress at work, lifestyle,<br />

genetics, as well as the normal process<br />

of aging may cause someone to suffer<br />

heart and other cardiovascular diseases.<br />

The most important question is, “How to<br />

prevent yourself from being a victim of these<br />

serious, almost fatal, diseases? The answer<br />

lies in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids<br />

are not only essential nutrients for the human<br />

body to function, but also helps manage and<br />

prevent heart diseases and enhance blood<br />

circulations. Below are some tips that will help<br />

you make the most from the main source of<br />

omega-3, fish oil! Read on.<br />

54<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Here’s a helpful guide on how probiotic intake aids digestion and alleviates pregnancy discomfort, and<br />

other probiotic must-know for expecting moms.<br />

<br />

1<br />

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.<br />

ENSURE YOUR FISH OIL HAS ALL OMEGA-3S<br />

Humans have been eating cold water, oily fish rich in omega-3s for thousands of<br />

years. Because of this, our bodies have developed a dependency on the whole family of<br />

omega-3 fatty acids - not just one or two. Isolating EPA and DHA for use in supplements<br />

is a relatively new concept. And just because science can isolate these two omega-3s<br />

DOESN’T mean the other six aren’t nutritionally important.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 55


2<br />

BUY ONLY PURE, CLEAN, AND<br />

POTENT OMEGA-3<br />

You may have read about contaminants<br />

in omega-3 fish. Should you be concerned<br />

about these toxins getting into your fish oil<br />

supplements? The answer is yes and no.<br />

Some pollutants like mercury are water<br />

soluble; mercury might therefore be in the<br />

fish you eat, but it would be left behind<br />

with proper fish oil extraction. This means<br />

a well-made omega-3 fish oil capsule<br />

would be mercury free (but keep in mind,<br />

not all fish oil products are well made!).<br />

However, other toxins, including PCB’s<br />

(polychlorinated biphenyl) and PBDE’s<br />

(polybrominated diphenyl ether) have<br />

been found in fish oil supplements. Toxins<br />

build up in the liver, guts, and heads of the<br />

fish. That’s why you want to be absolutely<br />

sure your omega-3 fish oil supplement is<br />

well-formulated using only the flesh of<br />

wild fish from pure clean waters. So, make<br />

certain the company says (in print) that it<br />

uses only clean flesh.<br />

56<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


3<br />

GET NATURALLY PURE AND<br />

BALANCED OMEGA-3<br />

Many companies sell “pharmaceutical grade<br />

fish oil.” But, that’s just hype. The truth is<br />

the U.S.P. (United States Pharmacopeia)<br />

has no official “pharmaceutical” standards<br />

for fish oil. Most commercial companies<br />

claiming to have “pharmaceutical grade<br />

fish oils” take whatever junk fish that<br />

comes up in the net and highly process it<br />

to remove as many toxins as possible to<br />

produce a product that’s basically just one<br />

step away from cat food or fish fertilizer.<br />

You can’t fool Mother Nature; your fish oil<br />

supplement can never be better than the<br />

omega-3 sources it came from. In recent<br />

studies, one third of the fish oil products<br />

tested didn’t even contain the amounts of<br />

the omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA listed<br />

on their labels. And, out of 44 different<br />

brands (all claiming to be pure), many were<br />

found to contain appreciable quantities<br />

of PCB’s, pesticides and other toxins. And<br />

no matter how much it’s promoted as a<br />

benefit, molecular distillation (not to be<br />

confused with “molecular differentiation”)<br />

or any kind of detoxification process<br />

damages the fish oil - krill oil - molecules.<br />

It also oxidizes the oil and changes the<br />

natural EPA and DHA ratio, weakening the<br />

nutritional value of the oil.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 57


13 EASY WAYS TO<br />

ADD FIBER TO<br />

YOUR DIET<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Fiber in your daily diet is a very important element in achieving a healthy<br />

lifestyle. This article will help you on how to increase your fiber intake.<br />

Eating a high fiber<br />

diet is an important<br />

step to achieving a<br />

healthy lifestyle.<br />

The Dietary<br />

Guidelines for Americans<br />

recommends that the average<br />

woman should eat 25 grams<br />

of fiber, and the average<br />

man should eat 35 grams.<br />

If you are looking to lower<br />

your cholesterol, consider<br />

eating extra soluble fiber<br />

above and beyond the daily<br />

recommendations. Always<br />

try to get your daily fiber<br />

through the consumption of<br />

natural foods. While fiber<br />

supplements are convenient,<br />

they may not be as beneficial<br />

to the body when compared<br />

to their natural counterparts.<br />

Thankfully, it’s easy to get<br />

your daily fiber amount with<br />

delicious foods. Here are 13<br />

great ways to add fiber to<br />

your diet.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 61


PMS: the agonizing reality about the menstrual cycle that most women have to suffer every month. Read on<br />

and learn how to free yourself from PMS torture.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

1<br />

SOLUBLE AND INSOLUBLE FIBER<br />

There are two types of dietary fiber:<br />

soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber<br />

can be disolved in water and acts by slowing<br />

down digestion thus helping you feel full<br />

for longer; it also reduces bad cholesterol.<br />

Insoluble fiber cannot be disolved and<br />

remains intact through the digestive<br />

process. It has a laxative effect and can<br />

help relieve constipation. Both types of<br />

fiber are equally important in your diet.<br />

When adding fiber to your diet, start slowly.<br />

Eating more fiber than you are used to can<br />

lead to bloating, gas, and cramping. These<br />

unpleasant side effects go away with<br />

regular consumption.<br />

2<br />

EAT “WHOLE” FOODS<br />

Buying bread can be a challenge<br />

when you’re looking for high fiber. Multigrain<br />

varieties sound healthy, but they<br />

can be over processed and lacking fiber.<br />

Instead, search for breads with “whole<br />

grain” or “whole wheat” on the label. They<br />

will be less refined and higher in fiber and<br />

other vitamins. If in doubt, check the labels<br />

to find the best variety for you.<br />

3<br />

MIX CEREALS<br />

High fiber cereals can be tasteless<br />

and a chore to eat. Remedy this by<br />

mixing your favorite cereal with the high<br />

fiber variety. Experiment with different<br />

mixtures to find your ideal breakfast cereal<br />

concoction. Starting your day by eating a<br />

high fiber meal will keep you full longer<br />

and energized. Some brands of high fiber<br />

cereal taste amazing, too.<br />

4<br />

START WITH OATMEAL<br />

Not all oatmeal is made equal. If<br />

you’re looking to add fiber to your diet, try<br />

steel cut oats. These oats have been shelled<br />

and coarsely chopped, unlike rolled oats<br />

which have been steamed and rolled out<br />

62<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


flat. By keeping the oats as unprocessed as possible, steel cut oats have an amazingly<br />

high fiber content. One 100-gram serving can give you 10 grams of fiber!<br />

5<br />

SWITCH FROM WHITE TO BROWN<br />

One easy switch you can make to add fiber in your diet is to choose brown rice over<br />

white. Brown rice takes longer to cook because of its high fiber content. The result is a<br />

chewier, nuttier version of the classic white rice. Enjoy it as a side dish or where ever you<br />

would use regular rice; a nice high fiber dessert is to make rice pudding with brown rice.<br />

Your family won’t notice the difference!<br />

6<br />

EAT A FRUIT, IN MORE<br />

WAYS THAN ONE<br />

If you enjoy a glass of orange juice in the<br />

morning, try eating an orange instead.<br />

Oranges contain both soluble and<br />

insoluble fiber that you can miss out on<br />

if you’re just drinking the juice. Eating the<br />

whole fruit has other benefits. There is no<br />

added sugar, it is lower in calories, and it<br />

will fill you up. If you still want to stick with<br />

the juice, try varieties that add in pulp.<br />

You can also try substituting candy with<br />

dried fruit. Dried fruit have all the fiber<br />

content you expect from their regular<br />

forms. Look for varieties that have no<br />

added sugar to keep your calories down.<br />

Dried strawberries are delicious and have<br />

the texture of gummy candy. Your kids will<br />

be pleasantly surprised at how tasty these<br />

healthy treats can be.<br />

7<br />

TRY SOME GRANOLA<br />

If you’re a yogurt fan, try topping it<br />

with granola or cereal; yogurt is a delicious<br />

and healthy food but it is lacking in fiber.<br />

Sprinkle on homemade granola or high<br />

fiber cereal for a textural marval. You can<br />

also add in dried fruit and nuts for a healthy<br />

breakfast. To make your own granola, bake<br />

oat flakes with a little butter, a little flour,<br />

and some sugar. Use granola sparingly,<br />

some store bought varieties have a great<br />

fiber content and are very convenient.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 63


8<br />

RELISH BEANS AND LEGUMES<br />

Beans contain a ton of fiber, but they are often overlooked. Try and add<br />

more beans in your diet by sneaking them in your salads. This adds a great texture<br />

and flavor, and you’ll be reaping the benefits of their fiber. Dried beans can be<br />

cooked and eaten throughout the week for an affordable and healthy option.<br />

Chickpeas which are high in fiber and protein, can be an amazing hummus dip. It can<br />

play double duty by being a sandwich spread and great snack for any time of the day.<br />

1/2 cup of hummus can contain over 7 grams of fiber! You don’t have to buy hummus in<br />

the store; it’s super easy to make at home. Dried chickpeas are a more affordable option<br />

than canned.<br />

9<br />

VEGGIE-LOAD YOUR SNACK TIME<br />

An easy way to get fiber in your diet is by snacking on raw vegetables.<br />

This childhood favorite snack is still delicious for adults. Cut up your favorite<br />

vegetables like peppers, celery, and broccoli. Baby carrots make a great last<br />

minute snack. Enjoy them with low calorie dip like blue cheese or ranch.<br />

You can also enjoy your sandwiches with more than just meat and bread. Treat your<br />

kitchen like a sandwich shop by adding lettuce, tomato, sprouts, and more to your<br />

lunches. These vegetable add ons give more flavor and can add a ton of fiber. It can also<br />

save you calories if you leave off cheese and high calorie spreads. Combine this with the<br />

hummus topping and you have one amazing lunch.<br />

64<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


ENJOY SOME POPCORN<br />

Air popped popcorn is an amazing<br />

healthy snack. Every cup of popcorn<br />

contains 1.2 grams of fiber, so a whole<br />

bowl quickly adds up. Microwave popcorn<br />

can be high in calories and additives, so try<br />

popping it yourself. Air poppers are a fun<br />

gadget that keeps the snack free from high<br />

calorie oils. Movie theater popcorn can be<br />

high in both calories and salt, so make it<br />

yourself for the healthiest option.<br />

EAT THE SKIN<br />

If you enjoy boiled or baked potatoes,<br />

you could be missing out on some amazing<br />

fiber. Many people peel their potatoes before<br />

they are boiled, and skip eating the skin when<br />

baked. This thin skin is packed with a ton of<br />

fiber and vitamins. It’s the healthiest part of<br />

a potato! Be sure to wash and scrub the skin<br />

before cooking so that any remaining dirt is<br />

washed free before you chow down.<br />

MAKE WHOLE FRUIT SMOOTHIES<br />

Smoothies are a great breakfast<br />

when you’re on the go. Add in fruit for a<br />

delicious and healthy flavor; berries are<br />

a great option because of their high fiber<br />

content in the seeds. Resist straining the<br />

seeds out because they’re so good for you!<br />

Some high strength blenders can even<br />

pulverize the seeds so they’re completely<br />

mixed in. Frozen fruit can give a great<br />

frosted texture to your smoothie.<br />

ADD IN FLAXSEEDS<br />

Ground or whole flaxseeds are an<br />

amazing addition to baking. They have a<br />

great crunch, which makes them ideal for<br />

breads and crackers. You can even sneak<br />

ground flaxseed into cookies and other<br />

pastries. Flaxseed has both soluble and<br />

insoluble fiber. These tiny seeds are also<br />

packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making<br />

them a smart choice for any diet.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 65


10 TIPS TO PREVENT<br />

PMS NATURALLY<br />

by<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Follow Us:<br />

PMS: The agonizing reality about the menstrual cycle that most women have to<br />

suffer every month. Read on and learn how to free yourself from PMS torture.<br />

Are you one of the 35 million<br />

women in the US suffering from<br />

PMS? Are you also unwilling<br />

to turn to prescription or<br />

over-the-counter medications<br />

because you don’t like the side-effects or<br />

the idea of taking drugs for your monthly<br />

scourge? Good news: You can effectively<br />

treat PMS with simple changes in your diet,<br />

herbal supplements and exercise.<br />

1<br />

TAKE A MULTIVITAMIN<br />

Balanced nutrition is essential for<br />

your health. It is one way of reducing the<br />

severity of PMS symptoms. According to<br />

Fielder, who is also a columnist for Remedy<br />

magazine, studies show that women who<br />

take a good multivitamin have fewer<br />

symptoms of PMS than women who don’t.<br />

2<br />

UP YOUR CALCIUM<br />

AND VITAMIN D<br />

Dr Thys-Jacobs, who created the PMS<br />

supplement Premcal, says, “If women<br />

don’t ingest enough dietary calcium and<br />

vitamin D, the hormones that regulate<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 69


Fiber in your daily diet is a very important element in achieving a healthy lifestyle. This article will help<br />

you on how to increase your fiber intake.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.<br />

calcium react negatively with estrogen and<br />

progesterone and trigger PMS symptoms.”<br />

The PMS specialist says the typical American<br />

woman isn’t getting enough calcium or<br />

vitamin D through dietary means and that<br />

a supplement is a good way to ensure<br />

adequate intake. Fielder adds, “Calcium<br />

and magnesium, which is a smooth muscle<br />

relaxant, can help reduce cramps.<br />

3<br />

BE SURE TO GET ENOUGH<br />

B6 AND FOLIC ACID<br />

Birth control pills can cause deficiencies in<br />

B6 and folic acid, which can cause depression<br />

and fatigue during PMS and menstruation.<br />

Vitamin B6 is responsible for red blood<br />

cell metabolism (a deficiency can lead to<br />

anemia), blood sugar levels, and function of<br />

the immune and nervous symptoms. A good<br />

multivitamin will keep your B6 and folic acid<br />

intake covered as can dietary consumption<br />

of whole grains, beans, lean meats, bananas<br />

and baked potatoes. A deficiency in folic acid<br />

can also cause lethargy or, at worst, anemia.<br />

Up your intake of fortified whole grain<br />

cereals and leafy greens, such as spinach.<br />

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<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


4<br />

IRON IS IMPORTANT<br />

Because of the loss of blood during<br />

menstruation, women can get tired and<br />

even anemic if their iron intake is too low.<br />

To keep your energy up all month long, be<br />

sure to get enough iron in your diet — and<br />

don’t overdo it with supplements because<br />

too much iron can lead to constipation and<br />

toxicity. If you’re exhausted, talk to your<br />

doctor about testing you for anemia.<br />

5<br />

FILL UP ON FLAX<br />

According to Fielder, ground<br />

flaxseed is high in lignans, which help<br />

bind up free estrogen. It is also high in<br />

fiber, which will help relieve constipation<br />

and move hormones out of the body. Flax<br />

also contains phytoestrogens that can<br />

help reduce PMS symptoms because they<br />

bind to estrogen receptor sites, blocking<br />

stronger estrogens.<br />

6<br />

GO GAMMA LINOLEIC ACID<br />

Found in borage oil, black currant oil,<br />

and evening primrose oil, gamma linoleic<br />

acid increases a substance in the body<br />

called prostaglandin E-1. Prostaglandin<br />

E-1 help reduce inflammation and relieve<br />

breast tenderness, cramps, and headaches.<br />

Fielder says taking vitamins C and B6, as well<br />

as magnesium and zinc, will help the body<br />

use gamma linoleic acid more effectively.<br />

7<br />

HERBAL REMEDIES FOR PMS<br />

Fielder recommends chaste tree<br />

berry, a favorite of the ancient Greeks, to<br />

help balance hormones and reduce PMS<br />

symptoms. She says chaste tree is often<br />

taken together with black cohosh, an herb<br />

used by Native Americans for menstrual<br />

cramps and menopause. Herbal remedy<br />

licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is another<br />

phytoestrogen that can ease breast<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 71


tenderness and bloating. Fielder warns, however, do not take licorice if you have blood<br />

pressure, diabetes, or kidney, heart or liver disease. Dong quai, a popular herb in China,<br />

is an herb also used for treating PMS and other symptoms of hormone fluctuations.<br />

8<br />

TRY A CUP OF TEA<br />

Agatha M Thrash, MD, co-founder<br />

of Uchee Pines Lifestyle Center in Seale,<br />

Alabama, recommends red raspberry,<br />

chamomile, catnip, and partridge berry<br />

teas for PMS. Fielder recommends<br />

valerian for its relaxing properties. He also<br />

recommends dandelion leaf tea because it<br />

acts as a diuretic (do not drink if you are<br />

taking prescription diuretics).<br />

9<br />

RELAX AND RECHARGE<br />

WITH AROMATHERAPY<br />

To battle the fatigue that often comes with<br />

PMS, put a few drops of lavender, rosemary,<br />

or lemon balm in a diffuser and breathe deep.<br />

You can also try lemon balm to reduce stress.<br />

Rosemary can also help clear your head.<br />

EASE PMS WITH EXERCISE<br />

Though exercise may be the last<br />

thing you want to do when you’re in the<br />

throes of PMS, it is actually quite effective<br />

in helping reduce PMS symptoms. Aerobic<br />

or cardio exercise reduces stress, boosts<br />

circulation, releases endorphins, and has<br />

been shown to reduce the uncomfortable<br />

symptoms of PMS, in addition to the many<br />

other health benefits it delivers. If you have<br />

any questions about taking supplements<br />

or herbal remedies, talk to your doctor or<br />

a naturopathic specialist.<br />

72<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


8 HEALTHY<br />

FERMENTED FOODS<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Fermented foods or foods with live good bacteria helps a lot in your digestive<br />

system. Get to know what are these various fermented foods in this article.<br />

Fermentation is<br />

a continuous<br />

living process.<br />

The living process<br />

of fermentation<br />

means that the microbes<br />

digesting those carbohydrates<br />

remain part of the food.<br />

When you see a food labeled<br />

“Live Cultures” or “Probiotic”<br />

this means there are still live<br />

bacteria present in the food.<br />

This also often means that the<br />

food will continue to ferment,<br />

albeit usually at a much<br />

slower rate, as most of the<br />

fermentable carbohydrates<br />

will have been spent.<br />

The bacteria, suspended in<br />

their feeding frenzy, are a big<br />

part of what make fermented<br />

foods healthy. The bacteria<br />

that turn milk into yogurt are<br />

of the same variety that are<br />

already within our digestive<br />

system, turning fiber into<br />

vitamins, energy, and enzymes<br />

that our body can’t produce on<br />

its own - and the lactic acid that<br />

76<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


There are tons of probiotic enriched foods out there. Read on to find the products nutritionists think may or<br />

may not be worth adding to your daily diet.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

protects our digestive system from being<br />

hijacked by “bad” bacteria. These living<br />

foods provide our bodies with both the raw<br />

materials, known as prebiotics, that will feed<br />

the “good” gut bacteria we already have,<br />

but will also replenish our digestive system<br />

with a new supply of live digestive bacteria.<br />

So if your digestion is a bit “off”, you are<br />

coming off of a regimen of antibiotics,<br />

or just want to improve your health, try<br />

adding these “fermentation for health<br />

foods” to your diet. A caution: many of<br />

these preparations have high amounts of<br />

sodium. Like any prepared food, be sure to<br />

know how much salt you are consuming.<br />

1 KIMCHI<br />

Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish that<br />

is made from vegetables including cabbage,<br />

plus spices and seasoning, that is lacto<br />

fermented. Dating back to the 7th century,<br />

this dish is lauded for its cardiovascular<br />

and digestive health benefits, largely due to<br />

its high fiber content, high vitamin A and C<br />

content, and beneficial lactobacilli bacteria.<br />

2 SAUERKRAUT<br />

A less spicy, German version of<br />

fermented cabbage, sauerkraut also<br />

contains high levels of vitamin C and A, but<br />

also contains vitamin K (not potassium, but<br />

group of fat-soluble vitamins essential for<br />

blood coagulation and calcium utilization.)<br />

Sauerkraut is also high in dietary fiber, B<br />

vitamins, and is a good source of minerals<br />

like magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese,<br />

and copper. You can also try lacto<br />

fermented carrots and ginger!<br />

3 MISO<br />

This fermented soy product is most<br />

often consumed as a broth, but you can buy<br />

the actual paste which can be used for salad<br />

dressings, marinades, and rubs. Be sure it is<br />

made from non-GMO and organic soy. Miso is<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 77


highly alkalizing, which helps strengthen the<br />

immune system and combat viral infections.<br />

Along with the beneficial bacteria, miso is<br />

a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin B2,<br />

vitamin E, vitamin K, tryptophan, choline,<br />

dietary fiber, linoleic acid, and lecithin. Linoleic<br />

acid, an essential fatty acid has been shown<br />

to help skin stay soft and free of pigments.<br />

4 KOMBUCHA<br />

Kombucha is a fermented beverage<br />

made from slightly sweetened tea. The sugartea<br />

solution is fermented by a symbiotic colony<br />

of bacteria and yeast called a “SCOBY”. After<br />

the tea and sugar mix ferment, kombucha<br />

becomes carbonated and contains vinegar,<br />

B-vitamins, enzymes, the probiotic bacteria<br />

strains, antioxidants, and a high concentration<br />

of acid - namely: acetic, gluconic, and lactic.<br />

Gluconic acids have shown some promise in<br />

preventing cancerous growth.<br />

5 KEFIR<br />

Kefir is originally from the northern<br />

Caucasian region. It is made from cow,<br />

goat, or sheep’s milk and fermented. Like<br />

kombucha, a SCOBY is used to quickly ferment<br />

the milk into a tart, thin yogurt-like drink.<br />

Kefir has high levels of vitamin B12, calcium,<br />

magnesium, vitamin K2, biotin, folate, and<br />

probiotics. For those who are mildly lactose<br />

intolerant, the yeast and bacteria involved in<br />

the fermentation process produce lactase,<br />

an enzyme that breaks down most of the<br />

lactose in to lactic acid (hence the tartness)<br />

during the culturing process.<br />

6 NATTO<br />

Natto is a traditional Japanese food made from soybeans fermented with the<br />

bacteria Bacillus subtilis var. natto. It is often consumed for breakfast, served with<br />

soy sauce, karashi mustard, and onion. An acquired taste, Natto may not be your first<br />

choice. It has the trifecta of a powerful smell, strong flavor, and slimy texture. But it is<br />

also packed with vitamin K, including K2 which is only produced through fermentation.<br />

Natto is a great source of Vitamin C, magnesium, copper, iron, and manganese. It is also a<br />

dense source of protein, and unlike miso, it is low in sodium. Try, if you dare.<br />

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<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


7 PICKLES<br />

Dating back to 4-5,000 BC, pickling is one of the oldest food preservation methods.<br />

Select organic, naturally fermented (sour) pickles. These must be refrigerated. The<br />

minerals found in pickles include: iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and<br />

sodium. Pickles also contain vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate,<br />

vitamin B-12, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, and vitamin K.<br />

8 YOGURT<br />

The primary cultures (probiotics) used to make yogurt are Lactobacillus bulgaricus<br />

and Streptococcus thermophilus. Many yogurt makers also add probiotic strains such<br />

as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei and Bifidus. All of these strains are<br />

beneficial for digestion and overall gut health. Yogurt is high in calcium and vitamin B12<br />

and is a good source of minerals including phosphorus, zinc, and potassium. It is also a<br />

dense source of protein, especially Greek versions.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 79


5 WAYS TO GET THE<br />

PROBIOTICS YOU NEED<br />

by<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Looking for new ways to get your hands on some probiotics? Look no further<br />

than 5 delicious options.<br />

Getting the probiotics you<br />

need isn’t too difficult if you<br />

know where to look. Whether<br />

you’re more keen on using<br />

supplements or trying new,<br />

probiotic-rich dishes, each path is a worthy<br />

option. This article will explore those<br />

options more in depth.<br />

1 SUPPLEMENTS<br />

This one may appear to be obvious,<br />

but it truly is the fastest and easiest way<br />

to get your daily dose. When starting<br />

out, look for a supplement that contains<br />

around 10 billion active lactobacillus,<br />

and bifidobacterium. Once you’re<br />

used to taking them, you can ramp it<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 83


From ditching junk food to boosting your fiber intake, there are ways to avoid digestive problems.<br />

Here are the top pointers you should consider trying.<br />

<br />

up to the one with 50 billion active bacteria, which you’d take daily. The refrigerated<br />

versions of probiotics are better than the shelf versions, which can lose potency<br />

pretty quick.<br />

2<br />

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.<br />

RAW SAUERKRAUT<br />

Your grandma was one smart cookie. Raw, unpasteurized sauerkraut is packed with<br />

fermented, probiotic goodness. Some people grow up in a Ukrainian family and shudder<br />

at the sight of kraut as a kid, but now literally cannot get enough. Traditional store-bought<br />

versions may contain too many additives, but you can make it yourself, or many health food<br />

stores carry the raw versions (if you don’t have a Baba to make it for you). Add a 1/2 cup to<br />

your salad, or toss into a wrap for some extra crunch.<br />

84<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


3<br />

FRESH COCONUT<br />

WATER PROBIOTIC<br />

One of our FAVORITE ways to get our<br />

probiotics is to drink it! Buy this amazing<br />

coconut water probiotic by Inner Eco<br />

at Whole Foods, which is effervescent<br />

and bubbly. All you need to do is add<br />

a tablespoon to your water to get a<br />

probiotic kick.<br />

4<br />

ORGANIC YOGURT<br />

So maybe those Danon commercials<br />

were right. But don’t bother with most<br />

brands you see on TV - they can be skyhigh<br />

in sugar content, so beware! Stick to<br />

the natural, organic stuff. And if you aren’t<br />

a big dairy person like us, you can always<br />

go the coconut yogurt route (again, beware<br />

of sugar content!).<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 85


5 KEFIR/KOMBUCHA<br />

Kefir and kombucha are both probiotic drinks, typically made from fermented dairy<br />

(kefir) or fermented teas (kombucha). There are countless varieties, but the majority of<br />

them contain beneficial bacterial strains that aid in digestion. Same as the yogurt, you<br />

have to be very careful with the sugar content of these beverages. But in a pinch, you can<br />

grab a bottle of kefir or kombucha for a probiotic-packed bevvie.<br />

86<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


A 6-PART GUIDE TO USING<br />

PROBIOTICS DURING<br />

PREGNANCY<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Here’s a helpful guide on how probiotic intake helps digestion and alleviates<br />

discomfort during pregnancy, and other probiotic must-know for expecting moms.<br />

What are probiotics?<br />

P r o b i o t i c s<br />

are<br />

living<br />

microorganisms,<br />

the majority of<br />

which are bacteria followed<br />

by yeast. They are similar<br />

to the naturally occurring<br />

microorganisms found in the<br />

intestines, or gut, of every<br />

person. Three of the most<br />

commonly used probiotics<br />

include Lactobacillus,<br />

Bifidobacterium,<br />

and<br />

Saccharomyces.<br />

They<br />

are often nicknamed the<br />

“friendly bacteria.” Probiotics<br />

are helpful in supporting<br />

your digestive health.<br />

Are probiotics safe? Probiotics<br />

are probably safe during<br />

pregnancy.<br />

However,<br />

because there is a variety<br />

of probiotics and limited<br />

research, probiotics cannot<br />

be declared safe completely.<br />

In the limited research on<br />

90<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Omega-3 is the useful fatty acids that are primarily found in certain fish oils. Read more for helpful tips on<br />

getting these omega-3s from its best sources.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

probiotic use during pregnancy, there<br />

have been no associations with probiotic<br />

use and miscarriages or malformations of<br />

any kind. Furthermore, a meta-analysis by<br />

Canadian researchers found no association<br />

with probiotic use and the incidence<br />

of Caesarean section, birth weight, or<br />

gestational age.<br />

1<br />

HOW DO PROBIOTICS WORK<br />

DURING PREGNANCY?<br />

The precise way probiotics work is still<br />

up for debate. Researchers are still<br />

investigating their exact mechanism.<br />

However, the initial thinking is that in the<br />

same way bad bacteria attack the body,<br />

good bacteria attack destructive invaders.<br />

One assumption is they help reduce bad<br />

bacteria in your body, which can lower<br />

the potential of certain infections or<br />

other health concerns. They can reduce<br />

constipation, which can be a big issue<br />

during pregnancy. Because of its beneficial<br />

effects on the digestive system, it may even<br />

help reduce morning sickness.<br />

2<br />

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS<br />

OF PROBIOTICS?<br />

Probiotics, whether from foods or<br />

supplements, help your digestive system<br />

work more efficiently. As noted above,<br />

probiotics are assumed to lessen the<br />

presence of bad bacteria. Helping your<br />

intestines move food along and reducing<br />

bad bacteria help reduce the likelihood<br />

of experiencing health complications.<br />

Other possible advantages may include<br />

treating diarrhea, improved brain function,<br />

and lower blood pressure. They may be found<br />

to treat IBS ((irritable bowel syndrome) and<br />

protect against bacterial infections. They may<br />

also positively affect psoriasis and chronic<br />

fatigue syndrome, and decrease allergies.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 91


3<br />

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY<br />

TO USE PROBIOTICS?<br />

Different products have different directions,<br />

so be sure to follow the instructions on the<br />

bottle carefully. If the directions do not give<br />

a specific time to take the probiotic, then it<br />

is best to take your probiotic in the morning,<br />

either right before or right after your<br />

breakfast. The reason to take a probiotic<br />

with a healthy meal is that the food feeds<br />

the probiotic, and it helps to get it safely to<br />

the intestine where it does most of its work.<br />

Take for example, One-a-Day Prenatal<br />

Multivitamin w/ Organic Fruits and Veggies<br />

+ Probiotics & Enzymes from InstaNatural’s.<br />

This prenatal multivitamin is designed so<br />

that you only have to take one tablet per<br />

day. Even better, you can take it on an empty<br />

stomach without it causing any stomach<br />

distress. It contains everything it needs to<br />

survive on its way to your intestine.<br />

4<br />

HOW COMMON IS<br />

PROBIOTIC USE?<br />

With constipation and diarrhea being<br />

two frequently experienced common<br />

discomforts during pregnancy, the use of<br />

probiotics during pregnancy is common.<br />

The Canadian Journal of Obstetrics and<br />

Gynecology Canada found 45 to 93% of<br />

midwives had prescribed some form of<br />

natural health products to expecting<br />

mothers. According to the National Library<br />

of Medicine (NLM) and the National<br />

Institute of <strong>Health</strong> (NIH), probiotics are<br />

probably safe because current data<br />

indicates probiotic supplements are rarely<br />

absorbed. The likelihood of contracting<br />

bacteremia from taking Lactobacillus<br />

probiotics is less than 1 per 1 million, and<br />

the likelihood of acquiring fungemia from<br />

Saccharomyces boulardii is approximately<br />

1 per 5.6 million individuals taking<br />

the probiotic.<br />

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<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


5<br />

WHERE CAN YOU GET PROBIOTICS?<br />

Probiotics are most commonly consumed in live-cultured yogurt or through<br />

supplements. The most commonly used food source for acquiring probiotics naturally is<br />

yogurt. Live yogurt and live yogurt drinks are two viable options. Expecting mothers will<br />

be excited to learn that probiotics can often be found in high-quality dark chocolates.<br />

An example of a probiotic supplement is Mother’s Select Probiotics. This probiotic<br />

supplement is intended for pregnant women. It helps replace the good bacteria your<br />

body needs, especially since many are lost due to the stresses of pregnancy.<br />

6<br />

HOW TO CHOOSE A<br />

PROBIOTIC FOR USE?<br />

The first step when choosing a probiotic<br />

for use during pregnancy is to check with<br />

your physician to make sure that it is right<br />

for you. After that, you will want to look<br />

for a quality product from a reputable<br />

company. There are some specific elements<br />

to look for when choosing a probiotic.<br />

For example, the recommendation is to find<br />

a probiotic with 10 to 20 billion CFU (Colony<br />

Forming Units). Additionally, you want to find<br />

a probiotic supplement that has a variety of<br />

bacteria strains rather than just one or two.<br />

Since each strain has a different quality,<br />

having a variety will help ensure that you get<br />

the best of all of them. You may also wish<br />

to find a probiotic that contains prebiotics.<br />

Prebiotics are the “food” for probiotics and<br />

help them colonize and grow as intended.<br />

Pregnancy is an exciting time for any<br />

woman; there are many changes and<br />

choices to consider, but it is imperative<br />

that the expectant mother takes the<br />

time to care for her body and the one<br />

growing inside. If the mom has a poor<br />

diet high in processed foods, little fruits<br />

and vegetables, drinks coffee and/<br />

or carbonated beverages, has taken<br />

antibiotics, has high stress levels and is<br />

taking a low-quality prenatal vitamin,<br />

the immunity of the baby changes and<br />

will be affected for life. Taking a highcultured<br />

probiotic is a step in the right<br />

direction to support the immunity of both<br />

mom and baby. Supplements, including<br />

probiotics, may be one way to safeguard<br />

a woman’s health. When looking for the<br />

best probiotics for pregnancy, there are<br />

many points to consider and these are the<br />

most important.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 93


5 TIPS FOR ACHIEVING<br />

A NATURAL DETOX<br />

by<br />

Michael Hall<br />

Follow Us:<br />

Detoxifying is an effective way in removing toxins from your body. Read on and<br />

learn more on how to achieve natural detox for a more healthier you.<br />

Have you been following along<br />

with the 21-day <strong>Health</strong>y Detox<br />

Challenge? If so, adding these<br />

5 simple tips into your new<br />

cleansing routine will help<br />

reinvigorate your detox, lift your energy,<br />

and finish <strong>2017</strong> off with your health goals<br />

in sight. Infuse the detoxing drink and food<br />

duos with these top 5 ways to achieve a<br />

natural detox.<br />

1<br />

GO FOR ORGANIC FRUIT<br />

AND VEGETABLES<br />

Hopefully you’re already enjoying plenty<br />

of fruits and vegetables in your diet; if not,<br />

make this your #1 goal for <strong>2017</strong>. Of all the<br />

diet advice out there, this one provides the<br />

biggest bang for your detox buck. Along<br />

with antioxidants that help combat free<br />

radical damage (like wrinkles and chronic<br />

disease), these foods can help with weight<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 97


Tea with GMO content may cause undesirable effects on your immune system. Read on to learn some<br />

helpful tips in spotting high quality, GMO-free teas.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE.<br />

loss/management and make you feel<br />

great. Fruits and vegetables are also great<br />

sources of polyphenols, vitamins and wateressential<br />

nutrients for detoxing. When<br />

possible, choose organic over conventional<br />

for reduced exposure to environmental<br />

pollutants in support of the natural detox.<br />

It’s also beneficial to remove unwanted toxins<br />

that arise from the chemicals in processed<br />

foods and pesticidal agriculture. To cleanse<br />

from the inside out, try green algae in the<br />

form of chlorella found in HUM’s Daily<br />

Cleanse. Adding these detoxifying nutrients<br />

to your diet can result in clearer, healthier<br />

looking skin. Roughly 20% of produce grown<br />

on farms is rejected by grocery stores<br />

due solely to appearance: being too big,<br />

too small, sunburned, discolored or wind<br />

damaged according to California-based<br />

startup Imperfect Produce. So give your<br />

wallet and your conscience an extra detox<br />

as well by seeking out the imperfections in<br />

your produce.<br />

98<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


2<br />

BREATHE FOR DETOXIFICATION<br />

Not only can deep breathing reduce anxiety and blood pressure, it’s an essential<br />

component to detoxing. Deep breathing increases oxygen levels, which can help supercharge<br />

your lymphatic system and help with energy levels. Take a few moments throughout<br />

the day to focus on deep belly breathing.<br />

3<br />

CUT DOWN ON SUGAR<br />

Reducing sugar intake is one of<br />

the best ways to enhance overall health.<br />

Reducing sugar intake will benefit your<br />

skin and your waistline- high glycemic<br />

diets are one of the main culprits in acne<br />

production. Cut down on sugar even<br />

natural versions like honey, maple syrup<br />

and molasses- for a beautiful glow. For a<br />

natural lift without the sugary snacks or<br />

caffeinated drinks, try HUM’s Raw Beauty<br />

superfood powder. With Kale, Spirulina,<br />

Chlorella, Blueberries, Moringa, Matcha,<br />

Ginseng and many more superfoods, this<br />

mint chocolate chip infusion provides a<br />

refreshingly sweet treat and energy boost,<br />

without the loads of processed sugar that<br />

flood your system.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 99


4<br />

EXERCISE FOR RELEASING TOXINS<br />

Releasing toxins through sweat is one of the best things you can do for your body!<br />

Exercise promotes the detoxification process by giving all systems a boost; increased<br />

circulation to your heart, nutrient delivery to your muscles, and the release of toxins<br />

through the pores of your skin. Whatever your preferred method of sweating is, enjoy it<br />

at least a few times a week for maximum benefit.<br />

5<br />

SKIN BRUSHING<br />

We tend to think of detoxing from the inside out, but exfoliating your skin is a great<br />

way to release dead skin and refresh circulation. Try skin brushing or oil massaging! Try<br />

Turmeric Tea for a natural detox. Turmeric Tea is a simple paste of fresh grated turmeric<br />

root and honey, steeped in hot water. Keep any extra paste in the fridge to enjoy within<br />

a few days.<br />

100<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


8 PROBIOTIC FOODS<br />

YOU SHOULD CONSIDER<br />

by<br />

Susan Barnes<br />

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There are tons of probiotic enriched foods out there. Read on to find the products<br />

nutritionists think may or may not be worth adding to your daily diet.<br />

Sick of your daily yogurt?<br />

You aren’t alone.<br />

Thankfully, there are<br />

other delicious ways<br />

to fit gut-healthy<br />

probiotics into your diet. If you aren’t<br />

eating yogurt, chances are you aren’t<br />

consuming any probiotics - the good<br />

bacteria that plays an essential role<br />

in everything from mood to weight<br />

maintenance. And when your good<br />

gut bugs become depleted, the bad<br />

belly bacteria can take over, causing<br />

inflammation and weight gain - even if<br />

your diet and exercise routine remains<br />

totally unchanged. Scary, right?<br />

The Food and Drug Administration<br />

(FDA) does not currently regulate<br />

probiotic foods or dietary ingredients.<br />

Despite this, there are loads of<br />

probiotic-infused superfoods<br />

likely to be available in your local<br />

supermarket. There may even be a<br />

bit too many! Read on to check out<br />

the products nutritionists think may<br />

or may not be worth adding to your<br />

daily diet.<br />

104<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


Fermented foods or foods with live good bacteria helps a lot in your digestive system. Get to know what are<br />

these various fermented foods in this article.<br />

<br />

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE<br />

1<br />

LIFEWAY VEGGIE KEFIR<br />

Generally speaking, kefir is an excellent<br />

source of probiotics and bone-strengthening<br />

calcium. And Lifeways Veggie Kefir, which<br />

serves up a full serving of veggies in each<br />

container, is no exception. The product<br />

contains 12 different probiotic strains and<br />

a high dosage, too - more than 10 billion.<br />

Bonus: Since kefir has fewer milk sugars than<br />

regular milk, many people who do not tolerate<br />

milk well can sip kefir without an issue.<br />

This product is a good source of probiotics<br />

to improve gut health. In regards to weight<br />

management, always try to remember:<br />

Calories in drinks count! (Each one has 110<br />

calories and 15 grams of sugar.) You still<br />

need to stay mindful of how much you are<br />

consuming daily. Use the kefir as a high<br />

protein snack or part of a meal.<br />

2<br />

PROBIOTIC MELT ORGANIC<br />

BUTTERY SPREAD<br />

This blend of coconut, sunflower, and<br />

flaxseed oils is spiked with a patented<br />

probiotic called GanedenBC30. The makers<br />

of the product claim that the bacteria<br />

survives 10 times better in the gut than<br />

yogurt cultures, and, in turn can bolster<br />

immunity and digestive health more<br />

effectively. GanedenBC30 contains the<br />

probiotic strain, Bacillus coagulans GBI-<br />

30, 6086. This strain is different than the<br />

standard probiotic strain, Lactobacillus,<br />

which is more commonly found in<br />

probiotic products. Some research has<br />

suggested GanedenBC30 might increase<br />

immune system functions and decrease<br />

harmful gut bacteria. However, there<br />

is currently not enough research to<br />

guarantee specific benefits claims.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 105


Fermented foods like sauerkraut and green olives are likely more potent sources of<br />

probiotics than a man-made buttery spread spiked with gut bugs. But if you’re interested<br />

in getting extra probiotics in, you’ve got the green light. Don’t depend on it as your sole<br />

source since there’s no way to know how many of the probiotics are actually making it<br />

into your system. That said, it is a source of a less common probiotic and consuming<br />

various strains can only benefit gut health.<br />

3<br />

BIGELOW LEMON GINGER HERB<br />

PLUS PROBIOTICS TEA<br />

All kinds of tea are great, but what about<br />

a tea that’s been packed with probiotics?<br />

The effectiveness of probiotic tea is still<br />

up for debate. It’s really hard to say how<br />

much of the bacteria is still in the tea bag<br />

once it makes it into your kitchen - and it’s<br />

even harder to determine how much can<br />

actually make it down into your stomach.<br />

Give it a try if you’re curious; there’s not much<br />

to lose. To preserve the most probiotics as<br />

possible, let the water cool a bit before adding<br />

the tea bag to your cup. This will ensure more<br />

of the bacteria survive. Watch steep times<br />

and follow the box instructions exactly. The<br />

instructions present the brand’s ideal. Following<br />

suit means you’ll have the best chance of the<br />

nutrient making it into your system.<br />

4<br />

LINWOODS GROUND FLAXSEED<br />

WITH PROBIOTICS & VITAMIN D<br />

This is yet another product packed<br />

with GanedenBC30 - and Linwoods is<br />

charging an arm and a leg for it. While<br />

a typical bag of flax will cost you about<br />

$0.42 an ounce, their probiotic variety<br />

goes for about $1.25 an ounce, which<br />

is more than three times as much!<br />

Be cautious of cost when considering<br />

which probiotic foods to buy. If food<br />

makers are charging more for the product<br />

because of the added bacteria, it may be a<br />

good indicator that it’s more a marketing<br />

ploy than a product with many additional<br />

benefits. Nutritionists suggest you stick<br />

to regular ground flax (it makes a great<br />

addition to oatmeal, smoothies, and cold<br />

cereals) and get your probiotics elsewhere.<br />

106<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


5<br />

KEVITA SPARKLING PROBIOTIC<br />

DRINKS<br />

KeVita blends their proprietary probiotic<br />

culture blend with flavor enhancers like<br />

fruit extracts and coconut water to create<br />

their flavorful and refreshing beverages.<br />

Chugging an entire bottle will cost you<br />

anywhere from 10 to 90 calories and 2 to<br />

10 grams of sugar. (They rely on stevia<br />

to keep the counts on the conservative<br />

side.) Yeah, it’s better than something like<br />

a can of soda, but we’re not sure it’s worth<br />

it unless you genuinely enjoy the taste.<br />

If you want to give KeVita a try, it certainly<br />

won’t hurt you, but it may not really help to<br />

improve your intestinal flora, either. Unlike<br />

other foods and drinks that contain both proand<br />

prebiotics (the food that helps probiotics<br />

thrive), there’s no way to tell how much of the<br />

bacteria will still be viable by the time it makes<br />

it to your kitchen and into your tummy.<br />

6<br />

GOOD CULTURE ORGANIC<br />

COTTAGE CHEESE<br />

To be clear: Not all cottage cheeses contain<br />

probiotics. But Good Culture’s tubs are<br />

packed with live and active cultures, and<br />

they come in a variety of sweet and savory<br />

flavors like tomato, olive, and blueberry<br />

acai chia. Though dairy products are<br />

packed with slow digesting protein and<br />

have been shown to enhance probiotic<br />

absorption, that doesn’t make this product<br />

a clear cut winner or loser. Cottage cheese<br />

is generally high in sodium - and this line<br />

is no different - so people with elevated<br />

blood pressure may want to skip it.<br />

People who bloat easily and those with<br />

lactose intolerance should also pass on it.<br />

This is definitely healthy enough to be a<br />

great snack. But don’t make it your go-to<br />

source of probiotics unless the rest of your<br />

diet is relatively low in salt.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 107


7<br />

ENJOY LIFE FOODS BAKING MIXES<br />

We love that Enjoy Life’s baking mixes are free of scary stuff like hydrogenated oil and<br />

caramel coloring. Caramel coloring is a potentially cancer-causing chemical that makes<br />

cola brown. But Enjoy Life shouldn’t be your go-to source of probiotics. Sure, they contain<br />

the bacteria bacillus coagulans, but the little buggers have very poor resistance to heat.<br />

Probiotics are usually destroyed when cooked at high temperatures, so you’re likely not<br />

reaping many of their healthy gut benefits. If you want brownies or muffins with a clean<br />

ingredient profile, go ahead and grab a box. But when it comes to weight loss and gut<br />

health, they likely won’t help.<br />

8<br />

ATTUNE PROBIOTIC<br />

DARK CHOCOLATE<br />

In theory, when you eat a piece of dark<br />

chocolate, microbes in your gut ferment<br />

the antioxidants and fiber in the cocoa into<br />

anti-inflammatory compounds that stop<br />

belly bloat. But unfortunately, it’s not a<br />

surefire way to fill your gut with beneficial<br />

bacteria. Each person’s gut has a different<br />

composition of bacterial flora, so everyone<br />

will benefit differently depending on how<br />

much cocoa is broken down by these<br />

microbes. Packed with three different<br />

strains of probiotics, adding Attune’s<br />

Probiotic Dark Chocolate to your candy<br />

drawer can help you get more healthy gut<br />

benefits from your sweet tooth indulgence.<br />

Studies show that chocolate is<br />

indeed a suitable way to deliver<br />

108<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong>


probiotics to your belly, so go ahead and eat this sweet treat if you’re intrigued.<br />

But before you shell out the extra cash, just know that a regular dark chocolate<br />

bar may be just as beneficial; the verdict is still out. Whatever you decide, though,<br />

watch your portion size - chocolate is still considered to be a caloric dessert.<br />

Are you getting enough probiotic-rich foods in your diet? Chances are you’re<br />

probably not. Probiotics are good bacteria that primarily line your gut and<br />

are responsible for nutrient absorption and supporting your immune system.<br />

Probiotics are essential for your digestive health. If you don’t have enough probiotics, the<br />

side effects can include: digestive disorders, skin issues, candida, autoimmune disease<br />

and frequent colds and flus. But there are hundreds of other health benefits of consuming<br />

probiotic-rich foods you’re probably not aware of. When it comes to shopping for probiotic<br />

products, it’s important that you do your research before reaching for your wallet.<br />

<strong>October</strong> <strong>2017</strong> 109


TUNE IN<br />

FOR OUR<br />

NEXT<br />

ISSUE!<br />

The <strong>October</strong> edition of<br />

<strong>Gut</strong> <strong>Health</strong> <strong>Problems</strong><br />

will be available this fall.<br />

• BENEFITS OF COD LIVER OIL<br />

• USES OF PEPPERMINT<br />

• NATURAL REMEDIES<br />

FOR CONSTIPATION<br />

• SIGNS THAT YOUR BODY ISN’T<br />

GETTING ENOUGH PROTEIN<br />

• BENEFITS OF POSTBIOTICS<br />

• THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW<br />

ABOUT STOMACH FLU<br />

• DEBUNKED MYTHS ABOUT GLUTEN<br />

AND CELIAC DISEASE<br />

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