The truth about Aloe

If you're Trini then chances are your grandmother gave you a “cleaning” by forcing fresh aloe down your throat which almost instantaneously sent you running to the bathroom. It's no wonder that we were also told that "too much aloe not good."  It causes your blood to thin "they" say and I can go on all day listing the number of old wives tales told about this plant, but with over 150 nutritional ingredients certainly someone needs to defend it and set the record straight.  Without going into too many scientific details and leaving you with a headache of course.

Did you know that there are over 250 types of Aloe Plants but only 5 have medicinal purposes and the white spotted one found in TnT is merely for decoration.

Humans require 22 amino acids, 8 of which we depend on food for as our body does not produce them.  Aloe has all 8.

The main enzymes found in Aloe help break down sugars and starches, stimulate the immune system, are analgesic and anti-inflammatory, they also prevent accumulation of water in the body, aid digestion and metabolism, to name a few.  Aloe is very unique in that it also contains the vitamins needed to fuel the enzymes.

This “miracle” plant contains the vitamins that are responsible for teeth and bone formation and strength, muscle and heart health, maintaining a healthy nervous system, speeding up wound healing, assisting with balancing of blood sugar levels and influencing brain performance.

The minerals in Aloe are important for red blood cells and hair and skin pigment and assist with the body’s PH, they also help with nerve and muscle performance, and the trace minerals involved in cancer research experiments are also found in Aloe.

If all this was not enough, located in the sap of the leaves are compounds that stimulate your bowels and have anti-biotic properties.  These must be taken in small doses only, to avoid purging.

At this point I should point out that anything that has a purging effect on you is not safe. NEVER PURGE, unless of course you are severely constipated, but regular purging as a “cleanse” is very unsafe. This is why I do not recommend simply going outside and consuming the plant unless you are an expert.  Just like other great vitamins, there are professional companies that are qualified in properly removing the qualities of aloe and providing them to us in safe doses.  The key when choosing aloe is ensuring that the aloe is grown organically, the company is reputable and the products are approved by the International Aloe Science Council.

Aloe also has an infinite external uses, which I will list in another blog so be sure to look out for that.   

I hope this has helped clear up the whole issue of Aloe and the importance of having it every day but not just using the one from your backyard.

Yours in health

Nutritional facts on your favorite Christmas goodies.

It may be cliche, but Knowledge is Power.  

This Christmas be sure to plan your meals so that you're not screaming when the Carnival costume gets delivered a month later. Follow us on facebook and send us your favorite recipe so we can analyse it. 

Veggies that help with stubborn belly fat

I always struggle when I’m writing.  

How much information do they really want? 

Should I just list the vegetables to eat, which would take less than 30 seconds to read or do I explain words like xenoestrogens and phytonutrients so that they understand the science behind it.

I've decided to go with the 30 second read seeing that googling unfamiliar words is always an option, but just to recap for those of you who are new to my blogs…

The body hoards fat to protect itself against harmful chemicals; chemicals whose sources are as sneaky as drinking water and being stressed out, therefore highly unavoidable.  So trying to lose weight without losing toxins is simply put…..pointless and I dare to say dangerous.

Anywho, back to the issue at hand cuz my 30 seconds will soon be up.

Which veggies help with the stubborn belly fat?

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, kale, bok choy, cabbage, etc. contain very specific and unique phytonutrients such as indole-3-carbinol (I3C) that help to fight against belly fat stimulating estrogenic chemicals.

So there you go... another reason to bite the dust, suck it up and eat your veggies.

If you’d like a complete list of cruciferous vegetables click here

As always, I hope this has helped get you one step closer to being a healthier, happier, leaner you.

Love always

Marsha

Carbs should account for 45% to 65% of your diet. "No carb" diets are crazy.

Many people, in an attempt to lose weight, cut out carbs from their diet without properly understanding their purpose.  In fact, I would go as far as to say, that most people are not even quite aware of what they mean when they say “no carbs.” So I will try to make this as short as I can without leaving out too much pertinent information. Hopefully this will shed light for those who engage in “no carb diets” without proper guidance.

There are three types of carbohydrates: fibre, sugars and starch.  Already you can see the folly in cutting out ALL carbs.  I think it’s safe to say that fibre is key to losing weight. In fact, the Weight-Control Information Network states that the notion that carbohydrates themselves are fattening is a myth.  Furthermore, starchy foods are highly nutritious and bring valuable benefits to a healthy diet.

Carbs should account for 45 to 65% of your diet.

It is recommended that at least half of the grains you eat are whole grains. This is equal to at least 3 ounces per day for women and men over age 50 and at least 3.5 to 4 ounces per day for younger men. Overall, carbohydrates should account for 45 to 65 percent of your diet. Based on a 2,000-calorie diet, this amounts to 900 to 1,300 calories daily or 225 to 325 grams. If you eat 1,500 calories per day, this amounts to 675 to 975 calories or 169 to 244 grams.

Opt for complex carbs such as whole grains, potatoes, lentils and beans

Carbohydrates are your body's primary fuel source. After you eat, your digestive system converts them into glucose, or blood sugar, which your body uses to energize your tissues, cells and organs. Whatever is leftover is stored in your liver and muscles for later use. As a complex carbohydrate source, starchy foods, often simply called starches, tend to be high in fiber -- a carbohydrate that promotes healthy digestive function and blood sugar control. Complex carbohydrate sources break down slower than simple carbohydrates, such as sugar and juice, providing longer-lasting energy and fullness between meals.

Foods high in starch include legumes, such as beans and lentils, vegetables, such as potatoes and butternut squash, and grains, such as rice and flour. Whole foods containing starch, including vegetables, legumes and whole grains, are valuable sources of fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. One medium baked sweet potato with the peel provides over 2 grams of protein, nearly 4 grams of fibre and rich amounts of vitamin A. Legumes and whole grains also provide richer amounts of protein. Particularly nutritious whole-grain foods include brown rice, air-popped popcorn, quinoa and 100 percent whole-grain breads and cereals.

Avoid processed/refined carbs and sugars.

Not all starchy foods are chock-full of nutrients. When grains are refined to make processed foods, such as white flour and instant rice, the starchy part is removed, lessening the nutritional content significantly.  Our love for roti is probably the leading cause for the high levels of type 2 diabetes (1 in 8 Trinbago adults). To avoid weight gain, Type 2 diabetes and other risks of eating too many refined grains, limit or avoid foods that list refined grains, such as white or enriched flour, as the main ingredient. Common examples include egg noodles, saltines, pretzels, cookies, cakes and cornflakes.

Tips for choosing your carbs.

Rather than made with whole grains, make sure the label says 100% whole grain.

In the beginning until you really understand good carbs vs bad carbs, stick to items that come from the earth; created by God vs Man. Easy examples are beans, starchy veggies, provisions.

Follow me on facebook for lots more comparisons on individual beans and complete listings of good starchy foods.

Hope this helps clear up the No Carb Fad.

Lots of love

Marsha

Sufficient bowel movements is half the battle to a flatter stomach

I know this is a very personal topic, but it must be discussed if you are serious about weight loss.  I have said it time and time again....DO NOT USE ANYTHING THAT PURGES YOU.  The key is to get your body going off naturally and if you can achieve two to three daily movements then you're already on your way to a flatter stomach.  Here's an excerpt from an article published by RenewLife Canada. It was written by Dr. Leonard Smith M.D; Medical Adviser for Renew Life

PERISTALSIS/HYDRATION

To achieve 2 to 3 bowel movements per day, the peristaltic action of the bowel must be regular and vigorous. Peristalsis is the natural wavelike movement of the colon. This action, when functioning normally, moves food through the digestive system in less than 24 hours. There are many ways to stimulate peristalsis, but the most important way is through proper hydration of the colon. Constipation is often caused by dehydration.

The key to hydrating the colon is to drink plenty of water, and if you like, you can jump-start the peristaltic action of a sluggish colon by using hydrating minerals and gentle (non-laxative) herbs. Many "natural" products stimulate peristaltic action using herbal laxatives like cascara sagrada and senna.  Although better than being constipated, the use of these herbal laxatives is something I am strongly against, as more and more research suggest that although natural, these purgative herbs are habit forming like pharmaceutical laxatives, and they do not restore the colon's independent ability to function properly. Cascara sagrada and senna are laxative or purgative herbs. They work by irritating the colon, causing it to expel its contents. Hydration of the colon is the key to making peristalsis occur naturally, and the use of ingested water and gentle minerals and herbs is a far better solution. Magnesium hydroxide is a gentle mineral that brings water into the colon instead of purging it out. Increased hydration stimulated peristalsis naturally, unlike harsh herbs. Similarly, cape aloe and rhubarb are gentle herbs that naturally stimulate peristalsis.

BULK

The colon requires bulk in order for it to move 2 or 3 times per day. Fibre is the key, but the right kind of fibre is critical to adding proper bulk. Optimal intake for most people would be 30 to 40 grams per day. Preferably, the source of fibre should be split evenly between soluble fibre and insoluble fibre. Flax based fibre is the best, for it has a natural 50/50 split. Because it is difficult to eat 30 to 40 grams of fibre per day in your diet, many people supplement their diets with fibre products. It is important to avoid fibres that are predominantly soluble. A good example of the wrong fibre is psyllium, which is almost 100% soluble. Why is this? Psyllium absorbs 40 times its weight in water. When you take psyllium, it can absorb most of the free water in the colon, which leaves the colon dehydrated, which in turn reduces peristalsis. This is why so many people become clogged and constipated when they use a psyllium based fibre supplement. A flax fibre, which is balanced 50/50 (soluble/insoluble), give the user many benefits. It absorbs toxins and creates proper bulk in the colon without dehydrating it.

LUBRICATION:

To achieve 2 to 3 bowel movements per day, lubrication of the colon is critical. There are many good oils, including flax, borage, and fish, which are very effective in providing necessary lubrication for smooth and gentle elimination. The oils not only provide the colon with the lubrication it needs to eliminate 2 to 3 times per day, but they also give the body essential fatty acids (EFA's) that can only be obtained through the diet. These EFA's are vital to most cellular functions that create good health. Because fats are difficult to digest, it is important to use an EFA product which contains lipase, a digestive enzyme that will assist in the proper breakdown and use of the oils.

These three steps (peristalsis/hydration, bulk, and lubrication) are a simple system that will result in proper daily elimination. In addition to these steps, here are some helpful hints that also create the environment for regular elimination:

- drink plenty of water

- change your diet slowly, adding more fruits and vegetables, especially organic ones. Supplement with a good daily fibre. Lower the amount of refined starches, Sugar and processed foods in your diet.

- Take digestive enzymes with your meals

- Exercise! If not daily, then at least 3 times per week for 30 minutes.

- Lubricate the colon by taking essential fatty acids in oils such as flax, borage, and fish.

- When traveling, try to maintain a normal diet and regular sleep schedule.

- Create time to go to the bathroom in the morning even it if means getting up a little earlier than usual.

- Position yourself correctly when using the toilet. Keep the feet raised on a telephone book or a device designed for proper eliminative posture. (I know, I’m asking a bit much now)

- Do bi-annual cleanses using herbal combinations designed to support overall body and intestinal detoxification.

- Use colon hydrotherapy/hydration.

Sizzle up your shake with these fabulous recipes

Give your body the nutrients it needs with two daily Forever Lite shakes, which provide 100% of the RDI (Reference Daily Intake) of vitamins and minerals, as well as proteins for body building and cell growth and repair. Each shake contains 18 amino acids (including 8 essentials) and trace elements including iron, selenium, chromium and iodine, providing your body with soluble and insoluble fiber. We've also added the antioxidant Beta Carotene and vitamins A and E to help protect against free radicals. Forever Lite is a great-tasting, nutritionally sound meal replacement. 2 Forever Lite shakes have 100% of the RDI of vitamins and minerals. Shake your way to fitness with this assortment of healthy, tasty meal replacements that your whole family can enjoy!

Taste of Freedom 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 4 oz. Forever Freedom 4 oz. orange juice Crushed ice Blend until smooth 180 calories Peaches n' Berries 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 4 oz. Aloe Bits n' Peaches 5 oz. skim milk 1/2 cup frozen raspberries or strawberries Crushed ice Blend 225 calories Oatmeal Delight 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 1 tbsp. Forever Bee Honey or brown sugar 2 tbsp. instant oats 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 10 oz. skim milk or water Blend 300 calories Spicy Double Dutch Chocolate 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 10 oz. hot skim milk 1/4 tsp. ginger 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. cloves 1 tbsp. unflavored gelatin Blend until smooth 200 calories Just Peachy 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1 fresh peach 1/2 tsp. peach extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 240 calories Dream Cream 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 6 oz. fresh orange juice 4 oz. natural sparkling mineral water Crushed ice Blend until smooth 175 calories Berry Strawberry 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 6 oz. natural sparkling mineral water 4-6 strawberries Crushed ice Blend until smooth 140 calories Choco-Nana Chunk 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 8 oz. cold skim milk 1/2 banana Crushed ice Blend until smooth 255 calories Almond Mocha Creme 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 2-3 drops almond extract 2-3 drops rum extract Blend until smooth 200 calories Buttery Mint 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1 tsp. Forever Bee Honey 2-3 drops butter extract 2-3 drops mint extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 225 calories Forever Colada 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1/2 tsp. coconut extract 1/2 tsp. rum extract 1/2 tsp. Forever Bee Honey Crushed ice Blend until smooth 235 calories After Eight 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 8 oz. skim milk Fresh mint leaf Crushed ice Blend until smooth 200 calories Forever Fruit 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1/2 banana 3 fresh strawberries 1 tsp. crushed pineapple 1 tsp. orange juice Crushed ice Blend until smooth 290 calories Banana Nut Creme 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1-2 drops banana extract 1-2 drops black walnut extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 200 calories Hawaiian Style 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 4 oz. Aloe Vera Gel or Freedom 4 oz. Pineapple juice 1/2 c. fresh or frozen pineapple, berries, or other fruit Crushed ice Blend until smooth 230 calories Orchard Morning 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 1 cup apple juice 1/2 cup in-season fresh fruit 1 cup low-fat, plain yogurt 1 tsp. Forever Bee Honey 1 Forever Bee Pollen tablet, crushed Crushed ice Blend until smooth 370 calories Tropical Blast 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 4 oz. skim milk 1 tsp. Forever Bee Honey 1/2 banana 1/4 cup shredded coconut Crushed ice Blend until smooth 340 calories Vanilla Coconut 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 2-3 drops coconut extract or shredded coconut* 2-3 drops vanilla extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 200 calories * add 45 calories per 1 1/2 tbsp. shredded coconut Nut Fudge Drink 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1 tsp. Forever Bee Honey 1-2 drops black walnut extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 225 calories Chocolate Almond Fudge 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 2-3 drops coconut extract or shredded coconut 2-3 drops almond extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 200 calories Holiday Eggnog 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. hot or cold skim milk 1 tsp. Forever Bee Honey 1-2 drops eggnog extract 1-2 drops brandy extract 1-2 drops rum extract 1-2 drops vanilla extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 225 calories Smooth n' Fruity 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 1 cup apple or orange juice 1/2 banana 1 cup lowfat plain yogurt Crushed ice Blend until smooth 355 calories Fruit n' Honey 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 8 oz. apple juice 1/2 c. frozen or fresh fruit 1 tsp. Forever Bee Honey Crushed ice Blend until smooth 250 calories Red Cherry Delight 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1 tsp. cherry extract Dash of nutmeg Crushed ice Blend until smooth 200 calories Cherry Brandy Creme 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1 tsp. Forever Bee Honey 1-2 drops cherry extract 1-2 drops brandy extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 225 calories Tropical Dream 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 8 oz. orange juice 1/2 cup crushed pineapple 1/2 banana Crushed ice Blend until smooth 300 calories Chocolate-Covered Orange 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 1-2 drops chocolate extract 1-2 drops orange extract Crushed ice Blend until smooth 200 calories Mocha De-Lite 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk Instant coffee powder or syrup 1/2 banana Crushed ice Blend until smooth 255 calories Choco-Berry Nut 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 3-4 strawberries 1 tsp. peanut butter Crushed ice Blend until smooth 300 calories Butterscotch Swirl 1 scoop Vanilla Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk 2 tsp butterscotch flavoring Crushed ice Blend until smooth 200 calories All-Spiced Up 1 scoop Chocolate Forever Lite 10 oz. skim milk Dash of all-spice 1/2 banana Crushed ice Blend until smooth 255 calories Peanut Butter Power Treats 1/2 cup Chocolate or Vanilla Forever Lite 1 cup natural peanut butter 1/2 cup of your choice: fresh coconut granola or oatmeal raisins Mix and roll into 1" balls for a handy snack-on-the-go! Calories will vary per added ingredients.

A look inside the Clean 9 Kit