GINGER TEA

• Fresh ginger – 80 g
• Fresh cinnamon pieces- 20 g
• Water – 8 cups
• Optional (just before you serve the tea) – 4 to 5 pine nuts, 1 tsp of honey

Preparation

1. Clean the ginger well (peel the skin off as well). – I scrubbed it with rough cloth first then used a spoon to scrub off the skin
2. Rinse the cinnamon in cold water. (You don’t need to cut them into small pieces, mine was already in small pieces.)
3. Thin slice the ginger.

Cooking

1. Put the ginger, cinnamon, and water into a pot.
2. Boil it on medium (or low) heat for about 25-30 minutes.
3. Sieve the ginger and cinnamon. (Use a white straining cloth if you can, to catch the small dirt from the cinnamon)
4. Serve it in a tea cup. (You can also add some pine nuts and honey)

(thank you- borrowed from: http://mykoreankitchen.com/2006/11/30/ginger-tea-saenggang-cha-in-korean/ )

GINGER



Besides reducing inflammation, ginger has many other benefits. It helps relieve nausea, destroys a host of viruses, and in some laboratory studies has shown promise as an anticancer agent.
Preparation and Dosage
The part of ginger we use is not a root, as one might guess from the way it looks. It's actually the rhizome, or underground stem. The spicy, aromatic compounds in the rhizome that impart the medicinal activity to ginger are relatively susceptible to heat and oxygen, so tread gingerly when making medicine from this herb. To make a tea, cut a two-inch cube of rhizome into slices and simmer them in one cup of water on low heat for 10 minutes. Cover the pot while cooking to retain as many volatile constituents as possible. Remove the slices, and sip the remaining liquid before a meal. Eat the slices after drinking the tea. Drink three cups of tea per day, one before each meal.
Ginger capsules or powder are also widely available. Take at least 2,000 milligrams three times or more per day with or without food. Just be sure to use powder that has not been sitting around too long, as it can lose its potency.
People often make the mistake of taking too little ginger and thus don't gain the full benefits.
Storage
Store fresh ginger rhizomes in a cool, dark, dry place. Do not keep them in the refrigerator, even after cutting them, or they will shrivel up. Use within 2 to 3 weeks for optimal effects. Capsules or powder should be kept away from heat and light.

(from http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/natural-medicine/herbal-remedies/medical-uses-for-ginger-ga.htm)

Metabolism Boosting Foods

There are many benefits to metabolism boosting, and one of the best ways to do it is to watch what we eat. While exercise plays a very important part in increasing our metabolism, there are also a huge range of foods that have special metabolism boosting benefits. We shall look at some of these foods in today’s article.

Benefit of Metabolism Boosting Foods

Most of us know that there are lots of benefits to having a fast metabolism, however not everyone knows why.

As we get older, our metabolism slows down, meaning it takes longer for our bodies to digest the food we eat which results in more stored fat in the body. A slow metabolism can cause fatigue, dry skin and obesity.

By adding metabolism boosting foods to our diets, we can help keep our metabolisms as high as possible. There are lots of foods that have metabolism boosting qualities, and we shall look at some of the most popular of these below.

Grapefruit for Boosting Metabolism

Grapefruit has long been considered as one of the best natural ways of boosting your metabolism – as well as providing many other health benefits. Grapefruits work by lowering the insulin levels in your body. Insulin is what triggers your body to store food as fat.

Grapefruits are also rich in fiber. Fiber is very hard for the body to break down – so to do so you must burn a lot more calories resulting in weight loss.

Adding grapefruit to your diet also offers a wide range of other health benefits including supplying a mega dose of vitamin C, folic acid and potassium – all of which promote a healthy heart and immune system.

Green Tea and Coffee for Boosting Metabolism

Green tea and coffee are two great metabolism boosters that are very easy to add to your diet. Green tea has become a very popular drink over the past couple of years, and it has a wide range of health benefits.

Green tea is probably best known for its high antioxidant content, however it has fantastic abilities to increase your body’s metabolism as well. Green tea has thermogenic properties – meaning that it helps warm up the body. When your body creates heat it needs to burn more calories, which in turn increases your metabolic rate.

Caffeine also has similar properties, which is both in green tea (in small doses) and in coffee. Coffee increases your heart rate and helps boost your metabolic rate on a temporary basis. Coffee should be drunk in moderation however, and no more than three cups a day are advised.

Yogurt for Boosting Metabolism

Natural yogurt is fantastic as a metabolism boosting food as it contains large amounts of protein. Protein, like fiber, is very hard for the body to digest and so requires more energy to be processed – burning more calories along the way and increasing your metabolic rate.

Natural yogurt also contains pro-biotic cultures that will help regular your digestive tract and aid in a fast and healthy digestive system.

Apples for Boosting Metabolism

Apples offer similar benefits to grapefruits, in that they are high in fiber – which requires the body to burn a lot more calories than for other foods.

Apples are also very low in calories yet they also have a low GI rating, meaning that they will help you feel full for longer – preventing you snacking too regularly. An apple a day really will keep the doctor away!

Spinach for Boosting Metabolism

The final metabolism boosting food we shall look at today is spinach. Spinach offers a huge amount of benefits to your body, with metabolism boosting just one of them! Spinach is a fantastic source of antioxidants, potassium, iron, magnesium and vitamin C. It also contains fiber, which in a similar way to apples and grapefruit helps increase the metabolism by forcing your body to burn more calories.

Spinach contains metabolism-regulating vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins and calcium. It is an all-round great addition for your diet, and can help combat lots of health problems all in one go. Why not switch your usual lettuce in your sandwiches for some spinach?

Metabolism Boosters

We've all heard people talk about metabolism – but what is it and how can we boost it? That is what we shall talk about in today's guide.

What is Metabolism?

Metabolism refers to the chemical reactions that go on inside your body that allow you to live and grow. Your metabolism helps you to digest food and absorb nutrients.

Obesity is strongly linked to slow metabolism – as you are not digesting your food as quickly as someone with fast metabolism. However, there are ways to boost your metabolism that we shall look at below.

What Causes Slow Metabolism?

Your metabolism is most commonly affected by hydration, nutrition and physical activity. To be able to boost your metabolism you must first understand why it is low.

When trying to lose weight, many people lower their calories and fat intake – however this can actually slow down your metabolic rate. A good weight loss routine must also include physical activity to help bring your metabolic rate back up.

Even the healthiest of people will find that their metabolic rate will lower as they get older – this is just a natural process. Most people find it a lot harder to lose or keep off weight as they get older because of their lowered metabolic rate.

Unfortunately, a large factor affecting metabolic rate is genetics. While not everyone is blessed with a fast metabolism, there are ways of speeding it up.

What are the Benefits of Boosting your Metabolism?

Many people talk about boosting their metabolism, but what are the benefits of doing so? There are a lot more benefits to boosting your metabolism than you may think.

A faster metabolism can help you live a much more active and healthy lifestyle. Low metabolism can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, constipation, weight gain, dry skin and feeling cold.

The main benefit to boosting your metabolism is that it can help you maintain a healthy weight. Those with a high metabolic rate will find it easier to keep weight off than those with a slow metabolism. An increased metabolism can even help you burn more calories while you are sleeping!

How Can you Boost your Metabolism?

There are lots of ways in which you can boost your metabolism, and the most important thing to remember is what we mentioned before: physical activity, hydration and nutrition.

As well as ensuring you maintain those three things in a healthy manner, there are numerous foods and products that work as metabolism boosters.

Green tea has become a very popular metabolism booster – and is very enjoyable and easy to drink. Why not swap your usually morning tea to a green tea? Green tea contains the chemical EGCG that works by speeding up your brain and nervous system resulting in your body burning more calories. Coffee also works as a temporary metabolism booster – however you shouldn't consume more than three cups per day.

Other natural metabolism boosters include: almonds, grapefruit, yogurt, apples, turkey and spinach – to name just a few.

You can also take supplements that are designed to boost your metabolism. Many metabolism boosters are made from natural ingredients, whereas others have been scientifically created to help.

Natural metabolism booster supplements include B Vitamins, green tea tablets and general multivitamins. These are a great way of helping boost your metabolism while also increasing overall health. Some people however do not find the natural metabolism boosters strong enough for their needs and choose to try scientifically-formulated boosters.

There are literally dozens of different non-natural metabolic booster supplements on the market, and it can be hard to know which one to choose. Always read plenty of reviews and get recommendations when possible to help you make the best decision as to which is the best metabolism booster for you.

The best metabolism booster however is exercise. Even just a small increase in your daily physical activity will show positive results. The faster your heart rate, the faster your body will digest your food – meaning it doesn't get a chance to store it as excess fat. Combine a good, nutritious diet with a regular exercise plan – and you are well on your way to achieving your fitness and health goals!

(shared from http://www.metabolismboosters.net/general/)

Black Bean Chocolate Brownies

The doctor told my boyfriend he needs to lower his cholesterol, and I love to bake, so I have been experimenting with some “heart healthy” recipes. This moist “brownie” met with approval. I got the idea for these from the Dr. Oz show, where a similar brownie was tested, and no one could guess that the secret ingredient was black beans, which add texture and fiber to the brownies. Applesauce adds natural sweetness so you don’t need to add a lot of sugar, as I have seen in some Black Bean Brownie recipes.

Ingredients
Black Bean Chocolate Brownies1 (19 oz.) can black beans
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/3 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
Directions

1. Rinse black beans and measure out 1 1/4 cups of beans. (reserve any remaining beans for another use - you could add them to a salad.) Place beans in food processor and whirl to mash.
2. Add flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and brown sugar to the mashed beans in the food processor, and process to blend in.
3. Add applesauce, yogurt and vanilla and whirl again to blend.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
5. Spray an 8 inch square baking pan
with non-stick spray, and turn the brownie mixture into the prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely and cut into squares.

The second time I made this I used 1/2 cup whole wheat flour and added 1/4 cup ground flax seed meal. This also worked out well, and added the heart healthy benefits of the flax seed.
(credit: http://www.recipesoldandnew.com/index.php/2010/02/11/black-bean-chocolate-brownies/ )

Every year it seems there is a new dieting trend. Most recently, high protein, low carbohydrate (high-fat) diets have become all the rage. Some people swear by them while others are skeptical about their effectiveness and safety.

However, a diet based on increased (but not excessive) levels of protein has been shown in a number of studies to give an added boost to dieters by helping them increase weight loss, increase loss of body fat, and reduce the loss of muscle tissue. Many experts recommend a diet containing 25 to 35 percent protein for weight loss and between 20 to 25 percent protein for weight maintenance. In both cases, the protein should be high quality protein.

But how can people easily add more protein to their diets without overdoing it? Whey protein is one great option to consider.

Whey protein is a high quality, complete protein source with little to no fat that can help control hunger and weight,” says Dr. Julie Miller Jones, a professor of nutrition at the College of St. Catherine in St. Paul, Minn.

Usually found in a powdered form, this concentrated dairy protein can easily be added to many foods and recipes. One form of whey protein, whey protein isolate, contains less than 1 percent lactose and is often recommended for vegetarians and for those who are lactose or gluten intolerant.

Let's take a look at four ways that whey protein can help with weight loss.

1. Protein requires more energy to digest than other foods (called the thermic effect of food). This helps use more calories and hence may help with weight loss.

2. Also, high quality proteins such as whey protein help to preserve lean muscle tissue while you lose fat. If your body doesn’t get enough protein and the important essential amino acids on a daily basis it will “steal” them from existing muscle tissue.

3. Protein also helps to slow down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream. This in turn reduces hunger by reducing insulin levels and making it easier for the body to burn fat.

4. Protein has a greater ability to promote satiety than do fat and carbohydrates. Whey protein contains a special component called glycomacropeptide, or GMP. GMP helps promote the release of CCK, which is an appetite-suppressing hormone. This may help you feel full and hopefully stop eating sooner.

In addition to weight loss, another important side benefit of whey protein is its ability to support the immune system. It promotes the formation of glutathione, an anti-oxidant, which plays a key role in supporting the immune system. This is especially important during periods of stress and disease and for individuals who exercise aggressively or smoke.

Here are some ways to easily incorporate protein (using whey protein) into your diet.

* Turn your morning smoothie into a satisfying "fat burner" by combining whey protein, skim milk and fresh or frozen fruit. The dairy calcium provided by the milk makes it even more of a plus in regards to weight loss. Blend and enjoy!

* Make a healthy “home from school” snack by mixing together 1 box (4 serving size) of regular or sugar-free instant JELL-O(R) pudding with 2 servings of natural, vanilla, or chocolate whey protein powder. Add 2 1/2 cups skim milk and mix according to the directions on the box. Refrigerate for 15 minutes and serve.

* Prepare a delicious whipped topping for fruit and desserts. This recipe was created by Dr. Richard Ya Deau, a retired oncology surgeon.

40 grams of unflavored, unsweetened whey protein powder

16 ounces low fat milk

8 crushed ice cubes

1 tablespoon sugar or artificial sweetener, such as Splenda(R)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and mix until stiff peaks are formed. Use as a replacement for the higher fat version of whipped cream.

Whey protein is readily available in health food stores, natural food stores, and many fitness centers. For more recipes and information contact the Whey Protein Institute at www.wheyoflife.org or call their toll-free number, (866) WHY-WHEY.

(Courtesy of ARA Content)

Slimfast voluntary recall

Slimfast has put out a nationwide voluntary recall on all of it's ready to drink products in cans, regardless of best by date, flavor or lot code. The company says they may be contaminated with micro-organisms, making some people sick.

The company producing Slimfast, Unilever, says the recall is out of an abundance of caution. Only the cans are being recalled, the powdered shakes, meal bars and snack bars are safe to eat.

If you have any of the can products you can take them back to the store or call the company at 1-800-896-9479 for a full refund. Unilever says it's in the process of fixing the problem.

Mood, Energy, Stress foods

Improve your mood with these foods and eat these fruits, vegetables and grains to increase energy, decrease stress-
Improve mood
* For protein plus omega-3 fats in one great package
Examples: anchovies, black cod, catfish, clams, crab, flounder, halibut, herring, lobster, mackerel, oysters, rockfish, sablefish, salmon, sardines, scallops, shrimp, trout, tuna
* Carbohydrates
Examples: whole grains, beans, potatoes and root vegetables, winter squash, all fruits and vegetables
* Tryptophan and carbohydrates in one great package
Examples: milk and dairy products — lowfat/nonfat milk, yogurt, kefir, smoothies
* Antioxidants
Examples: fruits, vegetables, grape juice, green tea and oolong tea
* Crunchy foods (stimulate the secretion of serotonin by the trigeminal nerve)
Examples: popped corn, apples, carrots, celery

Decrease or prepare for higher stress, anxiety, anger, frustration
* Healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated)
Examples: olives, olive oil, nuts, seeds, nut and seed butters, nut and seed oils, avocados, fish
* Whey protein
Examples: milk and dairy products — lowfat/nonfat milk, yogurt, kefir, smoothies, whey protein powder
* Tryptophan and B vitamins
Examples: turkey, lean pork, beef, chicken
* Magnesium (decrease headaches)
Examples: nuts, beans, whole grains, spinach
* Ginger (decrease headaches, pain relief)
* Anti-inflammatory effects (bioflavonoids)
Examples: pomegranates, grape juice, soy, kale, green beans, apples, citrus, prunes.
Also for other anti-inflammatories that they contain: pineapple, fish, wheat germ
* Zinc and iron (boosts immune function)
Examples: lean meats, eggs, seafood, whole grains

Boost physical energy and alertness
* Calories: Eat enough of a variety of all feel-great foods.
* Water: Stay well hydrated for your body and your brain.
* Carbohydrates plus protein: Fuel your muscles and your brain.
* Phospholipids from eggs and soy: Allow for nutrients to pass into the brain cell, keeping your memory and brain function sharp.
* Fiber from whole grains, flaxseed, apples, berries and beans. Keep blood sugar levels even for sustained energy all day.
* Caffeine: 1-2 shots or cups before noon or before exercise will give you a great pick-me-up that will aid your alertness and exercise. Too much, or after noon, will backfire and make you feel lousy. Use other energy boosters after noon, and get plenty of rest.

Eye-Opener Smoothie
"The Good Mood Diet"
Makes 1 serving
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup fat-free milk
• 1 Chai tea bag
• 14 grams protein from vanilla isolated whey protein powder
• 1 teaspoon Splenda
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 4 ice cubes
DIRECTIONS
Heat the milk in the microwave and pour over the tea bag; steep 5 to 8 minutes. Discard the tea bag. Cool the milk in the refrigerator for 20 minutes or even overnight. Pour the milk into a blender and add the protein powder, Splenda, nutmeg, and ice cubes. Blend 1 minute, until smooth.

(food tips from Dr. Susan Kleiner, author of “The Good Mood Diet.” )

Fruits, waters,...

EATING FRUIT...

It's long but very informative
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We all think eating fruits means just buying fruits, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths. It's not as easy as you think. It's important to know how and when to eat.
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What is the correct way of eating fruits?
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IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS! * FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.
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If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.
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FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD. Let's say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so.
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In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil....
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So please eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining - every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet etc - actually all this will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!
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Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.
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There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.
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When you need to drink fruit juice - drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans. Don't even drink juice that has been heated up. Don't eat cooked fruits because you don't get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.
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But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you should drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly, because you must let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!
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KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.
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APPLE: An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Although an apple has a low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhances the activity of vitamin C thereby helping to lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.
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STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits & protect the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.
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ORANGE : Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.
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WATERMELON: Coolest thirst quencher.. Composed of 92% water, it is also packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene - the cancer fighting oxidant. Other nutrients found in watermelon are vitamin C & Potassium.
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GUAVA & PAPAYA: Top awards for vitamin C. They are the clear winners for their high vitamin C content. Guava is also rich in fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene; this is good for your eyes.
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Drinking Cold water after a meal = Cancer! Can u believe this?? For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this 'sludge' reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal.
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A serious note about heart attacks HEART ATTACK PROCEDURE': (THIS IS NOT A JOKE!) Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting.. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line.. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack . Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms.. Sixty percent of people who have a heart attack while they are asleep do not wake up. Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know the better chance we could survive...

Protein needs estimate

The simplest way to guestimate your protein needs is to use your weight!
What do you weigh in pounds?
Use that number as the number of grams of protein minimum you need daily.
For example, if you weigh 127 pounds and eat just salads, how are you providing your body with its 127 grams of protein?
Your body needs protein for its energy. If your nails or your hair are not healthy and strong, look at your protein intake. Healing uses protein- broken bones, chemo....
Don't cheat yourself. Have an egg, some tuna, fish, a protein powder shake.

Food Storage

Keep it or toss it?
How long will your favorite food or beverage stay safe and tasty?
What is the best way to store it?
The answers to these and many more questions that you didn't know you had can be found at this website:
http://www.stilltasty.com/
Browse Shelf Life Information By Category or type in an item in their search box.





Can You Safely Drink Milk After the Sell-By Date?
Is it OK to Put Hot Food Directly Into the Fridge?
Are Eggs Still Safe After the Expiration Date?
Expiration Dates: Should You Pay Attention?
3 Ways to Defrost Food Safely

There are so many more, enjoy!

Below the posts on this page, you will see the protein intake calculator-this is a guideline to determining your protein needs. Try it, but remember that it is an estimate.

Protein Intake Calculator Description : Find the right amount of protein recommended for your diet. Proper nutrition is critical for overall health and exercise performance. Enter your information in this calculator and get practical estimates for your daily dietary protein intake. The results of the protein intake calculator will show you the estimated number of grams of protein that should be consumed daily, and by each meal, depending on the goals you want to achieve.

Dinner is easy tonight and can't be all that bad for you!
Into the crockpot went:
2 handfuls of chunks of skinless, boneless chicken breast from my freezer
2 cans of chopped tomatoes (with celery, onions....whichever can you prefer)
1 can black beans
1 Tablespoon Oregano
1 teaspoon chicken broth powder
carrots, onions, potatoes, chayote, whatever you choose!
Halfway through cooking time add:
1 cup of frozen mixed veggies (such as one with brocolli, corn, carrots, -again your choice)

Leave in crockpot several hours. Currently my house smells delightful!
I will be cooking up a pot of High protein pasta to add to the bowls when it gets dished up.

Thank you GNC Whey Protein!
You just turned my sweet urge into a healthy lunch!

One scoop of protein powder (120 cals, 20g protein) stirred into one Dannon Light and Fit Yogurt (80 cals, 5g protein) and that makes 200 cals with 25 grams of protein!!!
I prefer vanilla protein powders and strawberry banana yogurt but mix and match!

New Info: rose.amethyst @ gmail.com

Hi all
Anytime you want me to post your post/article/link/whatever, please email it to me at rose.amethyst @ gmail.com or at least comment here!

Bananas

After Reading this, you will NEVER look at a banana in the same way again! Bananas Contain three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber, a banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet. Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel better. PMS: Forget the pills -- eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood. Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.. Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it the perfect way to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke. Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex England ) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert. Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives. Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.. Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief. Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

WARTS:

Wrap the inside of banana skin around the wart overnight, or 6 to 8 hours during the day and wart is gone.

Nerves:
Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work?
Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers:
The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control:
Many other cultures see bananas as a 'cooling' fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):
Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking:
Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6 and B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress:
Potassium is a vital mineral which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes:
According to research in 'The New England Journal of Medicine,' eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death from strokes by as much as 40%!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So maybe it’s time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, 'A banana a day keeps the doctor away!'

Footnote:
If your roses are covered with Aphids, drape banana skins over the branches, It’s amazing, but in a day or less, they are GONE!
I've tried it, and I couldn't believe it, no more aphids, as long as I save my banana skins for the rose bushes!

How to Lose Weight and Burn Fat: The Best Diet For Getting In Shape - Protein Tips!

Want to discover the best way to lose weight, burn fat, and get in shape? There are many vital aspects, but you can't miss these tips on protein!

1. Step 1

   We have all heard the expression 'protein power'. What does it mean? Is protein just for bodybuilders? How important is protein for the average everyday person?
   
   Protein is for everybody, we all need it. It energizes us and keeps us running on 'high octane' all through the day. It gives the body that metabolism boost that fuels us right through the whole day.
   
   Bodybuilders, fitness trainers, people wanting to lose fat and tone up. Even 'couch potatoes' can benefit from protein.
   
   Why is protein so special? Did you know that eating protein food causes the largest metabolic response by our bodies?

2. Step 2

   Metabolism, metabolism, metabolism. When people talk about losing weight, that word inevitably come up. We just love to blame our metabolism for that extra fat!
   
   But it does not have to be that way! When we eat protein food, our bodies use up to 25% of the food calories just to break it down and digest it!
   
   So, you want a faster metabolism? Eat more protein, simple as that.
   
   What else make protein so special and productive for us? Protein is crucial to proper hormone and enzyme activity within the body. It stabilizes blood sugar levels.
   
   Protein is what rebuilds our muscle tissue. Healthy muscles mean a healthy metabolism. Simply put, protein is very important to a productive metabolism.
   
   How do we most productively and easily incorporate protein power into our everyday routine?

3. Step 3

   Take a field note from bodybuilders. They have shown us time and time again that the 5-6 meals\snacks per day type of eating is very productive. Be sure to eat 2-3 snacks in everyday if you want to maximize your metabolism.
   
   One easy way to add quality protein to your diet is with a protein bar. Protein bars make a perfect snack, no matter what your goals.
   
   Remember, portion control and eating a proper amount is very important. Always read those labels and make sure you are well aware of what you are eating.
   
   Protein power. Maximize your metabolism by making sure you are eating a proper amount.

How to make a Weight Loss Protein Shake

A weight loss protein shake will boost your metabolism. If you want enough energy to last all day, here is a weight loss protein shake.

Things You'll Need:

• Protein shake powder
• Blender
• Desire to lose weight

1. Step 1

   Make sure you have high quality protein powder and a blender to make your weight loss protein shake. It doesn't have to taste bad either. You can match the flavor of your protein powder with your shake. It is important to have quality protein powder because it lasts longer in your system.

2. Step 2

   Add protein powder to your weight loss protein shake. Banana flavor works well if you add two bananas. One full scoop should be enough, although it depends on your weight. Packing so much protein into a shake makes you feel full without eating a lot.

3. Step 3

   Place two ice cubes into the blender and add your favorite juice. A weight loss protein shake juice that works well is pineapple juice.

4. Step 4

   Blend your weight loss protein shake for about thirty seconds. It is best to drink it quickly before it settles. This is an easy way to lose weight when you do it consistently

High-Protein Liquid Diet

By Ann Olson, eHow Editor
Many people use high protein liquid diets as a means of quick, rapid weight loss. Weight loss clinics have used high protein liquids diets since the 1970s to help obese individuals lose weight. High protein liquid diets are not recommended by the medical community, however, due to surmounting evidence showing it causes physical and mental harm.

Features

1. High protein liquid diets only allow dieters to drink high protein liquid shakes to lose weight. It is very low in calories; on average, dieters consume 800 calories per day.

Significance

2. High protein liquid diets are used for weight loss purposes. Physicians also prescribe it to patients before undergoing certain surgeries, including stomach and bowel surgeries.

Time Frame

3. Liquid diets last from 3 days to 2 weeks. Many physicians do not recommend dieting over 2 weeks, due to the increased risk of developing ketosis.

Effects

4. People on high protein liquid diets experience rapid weight loss. Other effects include dizziness, fainting, dehydration and heart palpitations.

Theories/Speculation

5. Alternative health practitioners believe high protein liquid diets clean out the colon, removing toxins from the body. These claims are not supported by the medical community, however.

What Foods to Eat on a Protein Diet

Protein is an essential nutrient for our bodies, especially if we wish to lose weight and/or have strong, toned muscles. Those who work out know how vital protein is toward keeping muscles from getting sore and damaged. Without this nutrient, it would be impossible to move the day after a workout. Protein can be received in many foods, and most bodybuilders put themselves on a diet of high-protein foods. Knowing what foods to eat on a protein diet will help you acquire strong muscles.

Poultry

1. Chicken and turkey are the best sources of protein among meats. They offer more lean cuts, which means you can have a solid amount of protein with less saturated fat. White meat is a better choice than dark. A 3.5-ounce chicken breast will yield approximately 30 grams of protein.

Seafood

2. Fish and other seafood is also an excellent source of protein. They contain very little fats as long as they are not fried or breaded, which makes them an excellent choice when increasing your protein intake. A small 6-ounce can of tuna can give you 40 grams of protein. Lobster, crab and shrimp are also beneficial sources of protein.

Beef

3. Though beef gives you a large amount of protein, it is also the fattest meat. Therefore, it should only be eaten in moderation, and only the leanest cuts should be consumed. Ground beef should be 93/7 on the fat ratio. Other cuts from the round and sirloin is OK as long as the visible fat is trimmed away.

Nuts and Seeds

4. Nuts and seeds make a large amount of protein, making them a popular snack for bodybuilders. These do contain some saturated fats, which are healthy in moderation. Two tablespoons of peanut butter will give you about 8-to-10 grams of protein, while 1/4 cup of other nuts and seeds contain 3-to-10 grams (See resources for full list).

Beans and Soy

5. Beans and soy are often eaten as an alternative to meats, especially for vegetarians. They offer lots of protein, as well as substantial amounts of fiber and other nutrients. One cup of most cooked beans will give you about 17-to-20 grams of protein. Soybeans contain 28 grams of protein per cooked cup. Tofu, a chosen meat alternative, yields about 40 grams per cup.

Eggs

6. Eggs can be cooked in many ways and added to almost every meal as a protein supplement. One large egg contains about 6 grams of protein. Therefore, they are recommended to be eaten along with protein-rich meats and vegetables.