11 Reasons To Eat Cherries

In the 1600s settlers brought cherry trees to America, and for good reason. Cherries, bright red, juicy and delicious, are so much more than just a sweet treat. It turns out, they’re packed full of beneficial nutrients and may even prevent certain diseases. Here’s why you should include cherries in your diet — every day!

1. Fights damaging free radicals

The dark red color of cherries comes from their high concentration of anthocyanins, which are antioxidants. Both sweet and tart cherries supply these beneficial antioxidants, although tart cherries contain more. Antioxidants help prevent cellular damage — the road to cancer, aging and many diseases. That means by eating antioxidant-rich foods like cherries you can replace free radicals in the body before they damage cells. In fact, even the antioxidants found in cherry juice and dried cherries, sweetened and unsweetened, are similar to fresh cherries. While frozen and canned cherries are somewhat lower in antioxidants, they’re still significant, suggests the American Institute for Cancer Research.

2. Helps relieve osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage between the bones and the joint wears down. Without the protective cushion of cartilage, bones rub together. The pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis can be debilitating, with many reaching for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for relief. Unfortunately, for those who need pain relief often, NSAIDS can wreak havoc on the body. Side effects can include gastrointestinal problems, high blood pressure and kidney problems. That’s a high price to pay, particularly if you can find similar pain relief in drinking cherry juice.
A study on osteoarthritis assessed the value of tart cherry juice in treating pain and other features of knee osteoarthritis. Researchers evaluated 58 non-diabetic patients with osteoarthritis who drank two eight-ounce bottles of tart cherry juice daily for six weeks. Tart cherry juice provided symptom relief for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.

3. Promotes heart health

Cherries might actually be better than drugs for cardiovascular benefits, according to animal studies from the University of Michigan. Apparently, tart cherries can reduce the risk of stroke. Drugs called PPAR agonists, which help regulate fat and glucose, were considered promising for patients with metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a collection of risk factors that link to heart disease and type 2 diabetes. But, studies have shown that long-term use of PPAR drugs can also increase the risk of stroke. Research now suggests that tart cherries provide similar cardiovascular benefits as the prescribed medications. In addition, tart cherries also reduce the risk of stroke, even when taken with other drugs.

4. Reduces muscle pain

Drinking tart cherry juice may have a significant impact on reducing muscle damage and pain during strenuous exercise. Endurance athletes often use NSAIDs during competition to prevent or reduce pain. But we now know how dangerous NSAIDS can be for some people.
So, the Oregon Health & Science University’s department of medicine studied the effects of tart cherries on athletes for pain management. Marathon runners drank tart cherry juice or a placebo drink twice daily for seven days before their race. While both groups experienced pain, those who drank the cherry juice had significantly less post-run muscle pain.  

5. Reduces cancer-causing carcinogens

Substances in tart cherries can reduce the formation of carcinogens that develop from the charring of meat, like hamburgers. But carcinogens in any form has the potential to cause cancer. Carcinogen exposure can come through inhalation, ingestion or absorption. Carcinogens affect DNA, causing dangerous changes at the cellular level. These changes can lead to abnormal cell growth with the potential to metastasize or spread to other parts of the body.
Interestingly, researchers at Michigan State University decided to add tart cherries to ground beef patties. Adding cherries to hamburger meat not only retards spoilage but also reduces the formation of suspected cancer-causing compounds. These compounds are known as HAAs (heterocyclic aromatic amines). Researchers found that burgers containing 15 percent fat and 11.5 percent tart cherries had “significantly” fewer HAAs when pan fried. Meanwhile, cherry burgers have become increasingly popular on school lunch menus in 16 states throughout the U.S.

6. Helps you sleep better

If trying to drift off to sleep seems like a nightmare, then cherries could be the answer. Tart cherry juice contains high levels of phytochemicals, including melatonin. Researchers at Northumbria University in the UK collected 20 volunteers for a sleep study. Some consumed tart cherry juice concentrate, while others consumed a placebo, for seven days. The study found that those who consumed cherry juice showed total melatonin content significantly elevated.
Melatonin is a hormone created by the pineal gland. It helps control sleep and wake cycles. Drinking cherry juice leads to significantly more time spent in bed, total sleep time and sleep efficiency. The study suggests that tart cherry juice can improve sleeping patterns and help people improve disruptive sleep patterns.

7. Improves eyesight

Most people know that carrots are good for the eyes thanks to beta-carotene. Beta-carotene converts to vitamin A, which is an important nutrient for eye health. But did you know that cherries also contain beta-carotene? While there’s less beta-carotene in cherries than carrots, there’s 19 times more beta-carotene in cherries than blueberries. That’s pretty remarkable, and a sound argument why a varied whole food diet is so important for overall health.

8. Protects against gout

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, is triggered by a crystallization of uric acid within the joints, causes excruciating pain and swelling. A study published in a journal of the American College of Rheumatology followed participants with gout for one year. Researchers documented 1,247 gout attacks from males, averaging 54 years of age. Ninety-two percent experienced gout at the joint at the base of the big toe. Thirty-five percent ate fresh cherries and two percent drank a cherry extract. Additionally, five percent consumed both fresh cherry fruit and cherry extract. The study found that those who consumed cherries reduced gout attacks by 35 percent. In fact, when combined with a uric-acid reducing drug, gout attacks reduced by a whopping 75 percent.

9. Promotes weight loss

Cherries may reduce triglycerides, fat mass and abdominal fat, suggests a study published in the Journal of Medical Food. Apparently, rats fed a high-fat diet mixed with tart cherry powder gained less weight than rats who didn’t receive cherries. In addition, the animals showed less inflammation, which has been linked to heart disease and diabetes. By consuming tart cherry juice, you reduce inflammation and lipids in the blood (which otherwise lead to heart conditions and weight gain). 

10. Reduces inflammation
Inflammation is the root cause of many diseases, including obesity, peripheral neuropathy, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, thyroid issues and cancer. And cherries are one of the top anti-inflammatory foods. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition assessed 10 healthy women ages 22 to 40. After fasting overnight, the women ate two servings of sweet cherries. Blood and urine samples were taken before and after the cherries were consumed. The study found that cherries decreased inflammation, inhibited inflammatory pathways and lowered plasma urate.

11. High in potassium

Potassium plays a key role in providing minerals for bodily organs such as the heart, kidneys, brain and muscular tissues. Also known as an electrolyte, potassium helps to maintain a healthy balance of fluids in the body. Deficiency, while not uncommon, is often misdiagnosed. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, fatigue, constipation and faintness. But just one cup of cherries can fulfill nine percent of your recommended daily requirement of potassium. Potassium reduces your risk of stroke, improves hypertension and high blood pressure, reduces muscle cramping and improves muscle strength.
Cherries offer so many health benefits. In addition to the many reasons above, cherries are a high-fiber food and an excellent source of vitamin C. Sweet cherries also have a lower glycemic index of 22, and one cup contains only 87 calories. So the next time you’re hankering for a snack, grab a bowl of cherries!
— Katherine Marko

12 Amazing Uses For Black Pepper

Even if you don’t spend much time in the kitchen, there are two seasonings which no cook can go without: salt and pepper. Black pepper has long been a part of our cooking culture. But up until recently, that’s been the extent of our use of black pepper. It adds a spicy dimension to every dish, and offsets salt nicely. Enough said.

But as with many natural foods, there’s more to pepper than meets the eye (or the tastebuds, as it were). It turns out that the strong flavor of black pepper belies an even stronger range of health benefits. You may not have been aware of them, but you’ve been experiencing those health benefits every time you season your food! And if anyone ever said that pepper isn’t good for you, they obviously haven’t done their research.

How black pepper is formed

Black peppercorns begin as small berries which grow on a type of large vine in humid equatorial regions. Once they ripen, these berries, or “drupes,” are removed from the plant and cooked in hot water. The next step is to dry the fruit of the pepper tree for several days, either in the sun or via machine. During this time, the flesh of the drupe shrinks and darkens to its characteristic shape and color. The mighty peppercorn is now ready to tantalize your taste buds and supercharge your health! Now that you know the origins of your pepper grinder contents, let’s explore some of the many benefits that black pepper can bring into your life.

1. Toothache

Black pepper can help to alleviate the pain and swelling associated with a toothache. Simply mix together a small amount of clove oil with salt and pepper and use it as a daily mouthwash. Not only will this relieve the discomfort of a toothache, it can also protect your teeth against cavities.

2. Congestion

Considering the spicy strength of black pepper, it may come as no surprise to learn that pepper is a powerful decongestant. If you’re suffering from a stuffy nose, sore throat or a range of other symptoms associated with the common cold, try black pepper. Simply increasing the amount of pepper you sprinkle on your meals can help to break up the excess mucus that is causing your congestion issues.

3. Skin

Black pepper makes an excellent natural exfoliator for your skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells, add more oxygen and stimulate circulation to skin cells. The result is younger, more supple-looking skin.

4. Cancer

A 2010 study conducted at the University of Michigan indicated that black pepper can prevent the development of cancer. The study examined the cancer-preventative effects of piperine, found in black pepper, and curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric. It was found that consumption of either curcumin or piperine by themselves could inhibit breast stem cell self-renewal, thereby stopping the progress of breast cancer.
Another important finding from the study was that while these two active ingredients worked well on their own, they provided even stronger cancer-fighting effects when combined. For this reason, you might want to consider sprinkling some turmeric on each meal, along with that healthy dose of pepper.

5. Nutrition

It may come as a surprise to learn that black pepper is loaded with vitamins and minerals. Among other things, it contains plenty of vitamin K, calcium, copper, chromium, iron and manganese. If you’re lacking in fiber, it can help with that, too!
What’s more, similar to the synergistic effects of curcumin and piperine in fighting cancer, pepper amplifies the nutrition in turmeric as well! The compounds found in pepper help your body to break down the nutrients in turmeric, meaning you get more bang for your buck in every mouthful.

6. Digestion

Black pepper can help you improve your digestive abilities. Topping your food with plenty of black pepper stimulates your tastebuds. This, in turn, sends signals to the stomach to begin producing hydrochloric acid. More hydrochloric acid means more efficient digestion.

7. Gas and bloating

Largely on account of its ability to increase hydrochloric acid production in the stomach, eating plenty of black pepper can help to reduce gas and bloating. This is because more stomach acid production ensures a more rapid breakdown of food proteins, which can otherwise slowly decay in your digestive system and give off gas.

8. Gut health

As another handy lead-in, that elevated hydrochloric acid secretion in your stomach can also improve conditions in your gut. That’s because when your digestion is working efficiently, toxins are more rapidly eliminated from the gut. This gives your beneficial bacteria a much-needed vacation, allowing them to recuperate and come on stronger when they’re needed most!

9. Weight loss

Black pepper can assist you in your battle against the pounds. The outer layer of black peppercorns stimulates the breakdown of fats cells, which will help to keep your waistline nice and slim! Various studies indicate that piperine, the active ingredient in black pepper, has the ability to block fat cells from forming and promote the breakdown of existing fat cells.

10. Face scrub

With its gritty texture and nutritional qualities, black pepper makes for an excellent natural exfoliator. Make a homemade face scrub by mixing together a cup of sugar, half a cup of coconut or avocado oil, a few drops or orange essential oil and half a teaspoon of ground black pepper. Massage the mixture into your face and rinse with cool water. You’ll find you face is cleaner, clearer and less likely to break out into acne.

11. Laundry

If you’re tired of having your favorite clothes fade quickly with each wash, black pepper can help. Pepper provides a great way to keep the colors in your clothes staying bright. It helps to increase the cleaning power of your everyday detergent.
Simply sprinkle half a teaspoon of ground black pepper in with your laundry, along with regular detergent (or make your own natural, non-toxic detergent). Run the washing machine as usual, and the pepper will drain away with the water. Your clothes will be left unfaded from the wash, and cleaner than ever!

12. Pest control

Even the most avid animal-lover needs to take action against pests from time to time. But rather than turn to expensive or toxic pest-control methods, why not use one of nature’s most powerful repellants? Black pepper!
If you’re having trouble with ants in your indoor plants, sprinkle some in the soil around your plant stem to keep them away. When slugs and snails try to eat your garden vegetables, sprinkle a thin line of ground pepper around the garden perimeter to deter them. If you’re beloved dog just won’t listen to your plea for him to stop gnawing on your furniture, sprinkle a small amount of pepper on the problem areas.
For a natural garden pesticide, make a mixture of pepper and water and put it in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on any plants which are being eaten by insects or mammalian pests like rabbits. It’ll keep the critters at bay. Plus, it’s non-toxic so you can eat your veggies afterward without a care in the world.
— Liivi Hess

This Smoothie Reduces Inflammation… FAST

There are some days when I wake up and feel aches and pains, which are usually due to inflammation. It is caused by anything from overdoing my workouts to bending my body while working in my yard.
With the range of side effects in prescription medication, it’s more important than ever to find more natural approaches to managing inflammation.

This smoothie recipe does just that. It has some great ingredients known for fighting those everyday issues we all face. Research has found that every ingredient has inflammation-fighting properties, especially pineapple. It is a fast and easy smoothie to mix up as well. You could always add a little organic honey to sweeten it up a bit.

Ingredients to reduce inflammation

• 1 cup pineapple chopped
• 1/2 sweet potato peeled and chopped
• 1 large carrot peeled and sliced
• 1-inch fresh ginger root
• 1/2 cup water
• Honey (optional)

Equipment

• Blender

Instructions
1. Chop and slice ingredients.

2. Place all ingredients into a blender.

3. Blend all ingredients until smooth. 

4. Place smoothie in a tall glass and enjoy!

— Leilani Hampton

9 Diabetes Symptoms You Should Get Checked Out Now

Our modern lifestyles are making us sick, especially in terms of what we’re putting in our mouths. Combine that with high levels of stress, little sleep and a lack of physical activity, and we’re left with a population whose health is paying the price.
At this point in time, do you personally know anyone with diabetes?
If so, you’re not alone. In fact, just four years ago in 2012, nearly 30 million Americans had diabetes — affecting both adults and children. Of those with diabetes, 8.1 million were undiagnosed. This means they were allowing their symptoms to worsen without addressing problematic symptoms. Even worse, in just two years from 2010 to 2012, cases of prediabetes went up by 10 million. A whopping 86 million Americans over the age of 20 were living with prediabetes. That’s the precursor to diabetes, also referred to as the “gray” area. At that point in time, individuals still have a fighting chance to significantly improve their circumstances by lowering their resting blood sugar.

Signs of diabetes

Unfortunately, our lifestyles combined with the standard American diet has caused a significant shift in diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Although a small portion of the diabetic community suffers from type 1 diabetes, approximately 90 percent or more of this population suffers from type 2. It’s generally caused by insulin resistance and poor health.

Once diagnosed, limiting intake of desserts is the least of your concerns. In fact, severe consequences can develop from poorly maintained diabetes. These include blindness, nerve damage, heart disease and other serious complications. In fact, diabetes continues to be the seventh leading cause of death among Americans.
So, what are some of the symptoms of diabetes? And when should you be concerned? If you are currently experiencing the following signs, please seek a professional opinion immediately.

1. Increased thirst

If you’re thirsty, don’t panic. You may not be drinking enough water and are simply suffering from chronic dehydration. With that being said, if you are unusually thirsty, are experiencing chronic “cotton” mouth and have noticed a number of the other symptoms below, it’s imperative that you get checked out. Why?
Well, excessive thirst — also known as polydipsia — results when glucose levels become hyper-concentrated in your blood. In turn, your kidneys lose the ability to reuptake glucose from water. Eventually, the osmotic pressure builds. Once it reaches this point, water can no longer be absorbed back into your bloodstream.

2. More frequent urination

Similarly, since you will have higher glucose levels than normal, your body is going to naturally try and “flush” it out. You may be someone who frequently uses the bathroom to begin with. But if you find that bathroom breaks are keeping you up at night, this could be a symptom of diabetes.

3. Changes in weight

This seems rather odd, as type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity. The truth is, when you’re urinating more often, you’re going to lose some water weight. However, your body will also not be extracting all of the calories from the sugar in your body.
Once diabetics do learn that they need to better control their blood sugar, they often experience weight gain. This can be seen as a good thing. This means that your blood sugar levels are once again balanced. From there, you can adjust your lifestyle accordingly. You can ensure that a new diet and exercise plan is implemented on a daily basis.

4. Extreme fatigue

Just like other common early symptoms, being tired doesn’t mean that you have diabetes. Our hectic lifestyles are leading to higher rates of chronic fatigue. But with that being said, fatigue is a critical symptom to be aware of. When you’re diabetic, food is not being broken down and used by cells as it should be.
This means your body will not be getting enough fuel. In turn, energy levels will significantly dip. Basically, when blood sugar levels are high among those with insulin resistance, it can affect the body’s ability to transport glucose into cells. If you are currently taking insulin and are still experiencing fatigue, you may need to alter your dose, as this can also be a symptom to low blood glucose.

5. You’re moody

We all have bad days. When your friends and family start noticing that you’re a touch extra moody though, it could be because your resting blood glucose levels are out of whack. When blood sugar levels are high, it’s been shown to create depression-like symptoms. This makes people tired and grumpy. Once blood sugar levels stabilize, this symptom generally improves.

6. Slow-healing cuts or bruises

All wounds and bruises differ in terms of severity. But if you find that minor cuts and scrapes are taking longer to heal than normal, this could be due to your blood glucose levels. Once elevated, high blood sugar can cause the narrowing of blood vessels, reducing nutrient and oxygen flow to wounds. White blood cells can also be affected, lowering overall immune function.

7. Tingling in the hands or feet

Unfortunately, this early warning signs generally means that neuropathy is developing. This occurs when the peripheral nerves become damaged. When blood glucose levels remain high, nerve fibers throughout the body become damaged, leading to tingling, numbness and pain. This is generally experienced in the extremities, such as your hands, legs or feet.

8. Blurry vision

If you notice that your vision has rapidly become blurry, this could once again be due to elevated blood glucose levels. As your blood sugar continues to rise, this causes the lens of your eye to swell. Of course, this will cause changes to your vision, reducing your ability to see clearly.

9. Tender gums

Do you generally maintain positive oral health, yet for some reason, your gums are overly tender? If you have developed diabetes and are not controlling your blood sugar, the saliva in your mouth will quickly grow harmful bacteria. Both diabetes and gum disease cause increased inflammation, so one essentially affects the other. If your gums are red and swollen, this may be an indication that something isn’t quite right.
Although it can be frightening, the worst thing you can do is not do anything at all. You need to seek an accurate diagnosis so that you can improve your health. When properly maintained, diabetes can be controlled, allowing you to live a long, fulfilling life. Don’t wait until serious complications arise; inquire about your potential diabetic symptoms today.
— Krista Hillis

13 Home Remedies You Can Find In Your Kitchen

Whether you want to treat a wound or deep condition your hair, you’d be surprised how many beneficial ingredients are currently sitting in your kitchen. The truth is, natural products are derived from ingredients found in nature. They are extracted from flowers, herbs, seeds, nuts and more.
Home remedies offer healing and health-boosting properties. They are ideal for both internal and external use. Have a sore throat? There’s a natural remedy for that. Suffering from bad acne? You guessed it — you can skip drug store products and look to your kitchen cabinets and fridge instead.

It’s recommended that every household stock up on some key ingredients that are not only cost effective. but highly beneficial in terms of your overall health. These solutions offer properties as nature intended, reducing your exposure to toxins and chemicals.

Home remedies in your kitchen

My friends often think I’m a bit odd, especially when I’m chomping on raw garlic cloves or shooting apple cider vinegar when I’m ill. But hey, at the end of the day, what they choose to ignore could actually harm them in the long run. From rashes to minor infections, there are natural cures that are likely sitting in your kitchen right now.

1. Ginger

Ah, ginger, a common addition to my morning green tea. Being used throughout Chinese medicine for thousands of years, ginger has been shown to improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, ginger offers a wide range of properties — antifungal, antispasmodic, anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antiseptic and antibacterial. Whether you want to settle an upset tummy or treat morning sickness, ginger is an excellent all-natural remedy that tastes great as well — it’s a win-win. Plus, when that time of the month comes around for us ladies, ginger can help naturally soothe your uterus.

2. Cranberries

More than 50 percent of all women will experience at least one urinary tract infection in their lifetime, leading to painful symptoms. Although cranberries will not necessarily treat an infection that has already developed, it’s believed that they can prevent recurrence.
This is significant. Approximately 20 percent of women who have had a UTI will contract another in the future. Cranberries offer your body proanthocyanidins, compounds which help fight off bacteria. They also prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of your bladder. Drink unsweetened, real cranberry juice on a regular basis to protect your bladder and kidneys.

3. Raw honey

Unlike the translucent honey you often find at the supermarket, raw honey has not been processed, resulting in a much higher nutritional value. Offering a vast history, honey has been used for centuries for medicinal, cosmetic, spiritual and culinary purposes. It offers antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also an ideal solution for sore throats, burns, wounds, coughs and much more.

4. Oatmeal

For those of you who suffer from eczema, you know that inflamed skin is anything but fun. By reducing inflammation, oatmeal is able to both moisturize and reduce itching. Although you can most certainly grind some plain oatmeal and pour it into your bath, a paste is just as effective. Simply mix around 1/3 cup of oatmeal with distilled water. Apply the paste directly to your skin and leave it on for 15 minutes.

5. Prunes

Once again, I was a freak of nature. As a kid, my mom had to limit my intake of prune juice — I loved it so much. Although odd, I was doing my body a world of good. Natural plum juice is packed with fiber. Of course, increased fiber intake is ideal when aiming to improve constipation and weight loss effort. Prunes also offer a natural laxative effect that will help individuals eliminate their intake of over-the-counter constipation aids.

6. Sea salt

Salt has gotten a bad rep, but the truth is, your body needs some salt in order to function. Of course, highly processed salts should be avoided, but natural sea salt or Himalayan salt should be consumed in moderation. When it comes to external use, salt is actually ideal for positive skin health.
Since sea salt is minimally processed, it maintains its high mineral content. This helps to rejuvenate dry, inflamed skin. When soaking your feet in a sea salt bath, for instance, you can help stimulate blood flow, draw out toxins and reduce aches and pains. Simply combine 1/4 cup salt with warm water, as well as a couple drops of calming essential oils, such as lavender or ylang ylang.

7. Lemons

This acidic fruit offers a wide spectrum of health benefits, as well as a range of nourishing elements. From skincare to digestion, lemons are known to promote positive well-being. Whether you want to treat age spots or improve gum health, lemon juice can help address these common ailments.
Although the juice has long been recognized as a delicious way to stimulate positive health, it’s been found that the lemon’s peel offers its own unique benefits. As mentioned in a recent study published in Food Science and Human Wellness, the flavonoids from citrus peels may offer potent anti-tumor effects within cancers of the skin, colon, lung, liver and prostate.

8. Apple cider vinegar

The use of vinegar for medicinal purposes is nothing new. When sourcing apple cider vinegar, look for unprocessed varieties that contain “the mother” — which often leads to a murky consistency. This is what offers nutrient-rich proteins, enzymes and “good” bacteria, leading to positive immune function. Apple cider vinegar can be used to soothe digestion, promote an anti-glycemic effect and even support heart health. It’s also an excellent way to reduce your exposure to toxic cleaning products. Based on its antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar will naturally clean surfaces and neutralize odors.

9. Baking soda

Once again, baking soda is great for both health and cleaning purposes. For those who suffer from recurrent UTIs, baking soda has the ability to make your bladder more alkaline, preventing bacteria from reproducing. As soon as the first symptom arises, consume 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda mixed with eight ounces of water.

10. Aloe vera

You may not yet have one of these plants in your kitchen, but you may want one now. Not only does this plant absorb toxins in the air, including benzene and formaldehyde, but the gel is also an excellent topical remedy. Whether you have suffered a burn or symptoms of psoriasis, external application is highly effective. You can also eat aloe vera gel, promoting positive intestinal health.

11. Cayenne

We’re big fans of spice in my household — and do we ever make a mean chickpea curry. A common spice, this powdered form of the cayenne pepper can help you combat hemorrhoids, heartburn, coughs and more. If you’re ever under the weather, drink a mixture of two cups of boiled water, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne, raw honey and lemon.

12. Turmeric

This golden spice contains compounds known as curcuminoids, including the more commonly known active ingredient, curcumin. Offering potent anti-inflammatory effects, this compound also offers potent antioxidant effects. To soothe and detox your liver, consume a turmeric tea one to two times weekly. Simply add a teaspoon of turmeric to three cups of boiling water, adding raw honey to taste. 

13. Garlic

These little potent-smelling bulbs contain potent active ingredients, offering antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Ideal for the common cold, garlic has been shown to boost immune function, soothe inflamed tissue and help treat minor infections. When consumed on a regular basis, it’s also believed to lower blood pressure, improve bone health and reduce oxidative stress.
So the next time you’re feeling less than great, skip the doctor’s line and head to your kitchen. Reduce your exposure to toxins and pharmaceuticals by utilizing beneficial ingredients, just as nature intended.
— Krista Hillis

19 Amazing Things To Do With Coffee Besides Drinking It

Coffee has been around for more than one thousand years. If you are like millions (if not billions) of people on the planet, then you start your day with a cup of coffee. You may even own a cup that lets the rest of the world know they shouldn’t address you until after you’ve finished your cup of Joe. Coffee gives you the energy boost you need to wake up every day. It is what helps you go to the bathroom. Or maybe it just provides that easy comfort in the morning, before you rush out of the house and start the day.
Many people consider themselves true connoisseurs who purchase only the best quality fair trade organic coffee beans and ground them just before use. But did you know there is so much more that you can do with coffee than just enjoy it as a beverage? Check out this list of 19 amazing things you might consider trying!

1. Use it in dry rubs

Ground beans can be added to any dry rub mix on steak or pork. Just add a couple of tablespoons to your favorite dry rub for a smokier flavor.

2. Add the grounds to brownies

If you want just a little hint of java flavor, add a tablespoon or two of grounds to your brownie mixture and bake as you normally would. You’ve just combined two of the best things on planet Earth: coffee and chocolate!

3. Unclog your drains

Pour half a cup of grounds into the drain with half a cup of dish soap. Pour a full kettle of boiling water down the drain. Done! No chemicals needed.

4. Clean out your garbage disposal

Simply combine grounds with a cup of water. Pour the mixture into a running garbage disposal to clean and sharpen the blades.

5. Clean your hands

Use wet grounds to remove odor by rubbing them on your fingers, then rinsing. You should clean your hands with used coffee grounds after you cut vegetables, garlic or anything that leaves a strong odor.

6. Repel insects

Coffee grounds can make a great natural insect repellant. All you need to do is sprinkle some grounds in the cracks of your wall or any other area where you don’t want bugs. You can even rub wet grounds on yourself…. if you don’t mind having coffee all over your legs or neck.

7. Remove bags under your eyes

Use grounds to remove bags under tired eyes. Mix some grounds with water, apply underneath your eyes and let the mixture dry. After 15 minutes, gently wipe the paste off. The skin right around your eyes is extra thin, so you want to be extra careful when wiping.

8. Exfoliate your skin

Gently massage used grounds into your skin then rinse off. You can use this method on your face or body.

9. Wash your hair

Shampoos, styling mousses, hairsprays and other products will leave residue in your hair. The grittiness of the coffee grounds will help to remove this build up. Apply grounds to your hair when showering, leaving in for a couple of minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
A word of caution: Over time, the grounds will darken your hair. Avoid this if you’re a blonde and like it that way.

10. Enrich your compost bin

Coffee is rich in nitrogen, which is a great addition to your compost bin. Collect coffee grounds for a couple of weeks, then toss them on your compost pile. For an extra potent mix, add one part coffee, one part leaves and one part freshly mown grass. Mix together then add to the pile. Worms love coffee grounds, and compost loves worms!

11. Deter slugs

Sprinkle used coffee grounds around flower or vegetable beds to keep slugs away. They hate coffee and will leave your plants alone. Start collecting grounds for a few weeks before planting, as you’ll want a good amount to make it work.

12. Give your hydrangeas a special glow

Coffee grounds will reduce the pH level of the soil around your plants, which can really bring out their color. Just be sure that your plants aren’t in need of more acidity. Blueberry bushes would hate those coffee grounds.

13. Keep your sidewalks safe in winter

No salt needed. If you have plenty of leftover grounds, use them instead of salt or sand. Sprinkle them on your sidewalks or driveway so you’ll never slip and fall again.

14. Stain your own wood furniture

If you’re a crafty do-it-yourself person, you may love the idea of staining your own wood with coffee. Brew a pot, pour the grounds back into the pot and voilà! Your stain is ready to go.

15. Freshen your breath

This may come as a surprise, but sucking on a whole coffee bean will actually freshen your breath. You won’t have any minty freshness in your mouth but that garlic breath will be gone.

16. Protect your dog from fleas

Not everyone loves the idea of a chemical flea repellant for their pets. If that’s you, you can rub coffee grounds into your dog’s fur after giving them a bath, then rinse well. If you love the smell of coffee, you may just end up wanting to bury your nose in their fur. We know your pooch will just love the extra attention!

17. Make your own air freshener

There is nothing quite as wonderful as the scent of a coffee shop. Double up two women’s stockings, fill them with half a cup of fresh grounds and tie a knot in it. Place this homemade air freshener in rooms around your home or even your desk at work. Of course we can’t guarantee that you won’t want to head over to the nearby coffee shop for a cup of your most favorite concoction. This air freshener can also be used in the fridge to eliminate the strong odor from onions.

18. Cleanse your palate for perfumes

Use coffee beans to cleanse your palate the next time you are shopping for a new perfume. Smelling those coffee beans between samples makes it possible to smell each perfume like it’s the first one. You won’t experience scent overload. Why not try this on your next wine tasting, too? Let us know how it works.

19. Use it as fabric dye

With Halloween right around the corner, many parents are coming up with their own costume ideas for the kids. To give a white shirt an “old” look, soak it in coffee for a few hours. You may need to place a weight on top of the shirt, so it will be fully covered.
Are you excited to try some of these incredible things you can do with coffee, grounds and beans? Let us know what else you can come up with! You may still stick with sipping it, of course.

— Ute Mitchell

10 Modern “Foods” That Are Killing Us Slowly

Author Michael Pollan has a great quote that goes, “Don’t eat anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food.” This is so relevant to the food landscape we modern folks are faced with these days. Take, for example, something like gummy bears. Are they edible? Yes. Are they food? Well… they’re food-like.
So many of the “foods” we consume are processed to the point that they don’t nourish our bodies in the ways that food should. In fact, many of them contain artificial ingredients that can be quite harmful. Here are a few that you might want to stay away from.

1. Lunch meat

Eating meat and animal products is not always bad. Of course, there are many people who choose not to eat them because they feel healthier on a plant-based diet, or for other, personal reasons. But high-quality, free-range and grass-fed meat can be a healthy part of your diet. However, deli meats contain nitrites, because food manufacturers use sodium nitrite to cure the meat, and to prevent the growth of bacteria. When combined with the amines in the meat, nitrites create nitrosamines, which, it is believed, may be carcinogenic. Also, deli meats tend to be very high in sodium, which can have negative health effects, as well.

2. Reduced fat dairy

Over the last few decades, many of us have been made to believe that the fat in dairy products is unhealthy. But recent science is beginning to suggest that this may not be the case. Quite the contrary, actually – in reality, it’s reduced fat dairy that you want to steer clear of. Reduced fat dairy products often contain artificial ingredients that mimic the texture of fat. And, especially with products like yogurt, they tend to contain a lot of sugar, to make up for the flavor lost when the fat was removed. What’s more, a Harvard study found that women who consume one or more servings of low-fat dairy products each day have an increased risk of infertility.

3. Margarine

Again, due to the idea that dairy fat is “bad,” products like margarine, which is a vegetable oil made into a solid state through the process of hydrogenation, are healthier options. It comes from vegetables, it must be better, right? Not exactly. The problem with margarine is that it contains trans fat – the result of hydrogenation. And trans fats are associated with an increased risk of heart attack. Margarine is also thought to lower HDL (good cholesterol), raise LDL (bad cholesterol), and increase your risk of diabetes.

4. Soda

We all know that soda is high in sugar – most often in the form of high fructose corn syrup. And too much sugar can increase your risk of obesity, diabetes, and other conditions. Soda also contains artificial flavors and colors, which are thought to be associated with a range of negative health effects. Soda is believed to be linked to heart disease, reproductive problems, kidney issues, asthma, and the dissolving of enamel on the teeth.

5. High fructose corn syrup

As many point out, the increase of HFCS consumption on a societal level generally corresponds with an increase in obesity and diabetes. To much sugar in the diet can also lead to metabolic syndrome, high triglyceride levels, and an increased risk of heart disease. In addition, while more research is needed in this area, many believe that, given that HFCS is a highly refined product, the body might process it differently from other sugars, which could lead to additional health complications.

6. Aspartame

You may be thinking, if HFCS is so bad, maybe an artificial sweetener would be a better option. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Aspartame, for example, may be linked to an increased risk of cancer. The science here is not definitive, and the FDA maintains that there is not an association. However, there is some research suggesting that aspartame might be linked to a higher risk of certain cancers.

7. Monosodium Glutamate

MSG has gotten a bad rap – and for good reason! But what many of us may not realize is that, despite the fact that we know it is associated with a number of health conditions, it is still present in many foods, including boxed chicken broth, cheese spreads, potato chips, and more. Incredibly, it can even be found in some baby foods. So what does MSG do to your body? It is an “excitotoxin” that excites your cells to the point of damage. This can even cause brain damage, trigger or exacerbate learning disabilities, and some believe it may be linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s, though more research is needed.

8. White flour

You’ve probably heard that refined carbohydrates are less healthy than whole grains. That’s the case largely because the fiber found in whole grains is stripped from refined carbs. And that impacts the way your body processes them. As a result, refined carbohydrates like white flour can increase your risk of weight gain, obesity, and diabetes. In addition, gluten is inflammatory, and a diet high in gluten is sometimes thought to be linked to health risks associated with inflammation, as well as digestive issues.

9. Commercial fruit juice

It would seem to make sense that fruit juice would be healthy. After all, we know that fruit has a wide range of health benefits. And we often hear about people going on juice cleanses and detoxes. But the kind of juice found at most grocery stores is not healthy. Most of it is heat pasteurized, which many believe strips the juice of many of its nutrients. Also, much of this juice contains added HFCS and food coloring. So really, when you buy commercial fruit juice, you’re just buying sugar water. Instead, look for juice that has no added ingredients, does not come from concentrate, and preferably is unpasteurized (checking out a local juice bar is probably your best bet for juice that has not been pasteurized).

10. Breakfast cereals

We all know that the marshmallow-laden cereals we at as kids aren’t healthy. But others — those that contain whole grains, for example — are definitely touted as health foods. But that’s simply not the case. For starters, most cereals are loaded with GMOs, especially those containing corn. Also, cereals are put through a process called extrusion to give them their shape — that’s how the grains are shaped into Os and puffs. But extrusion strips the grains of most of their nutrients and denatures the fatty acids, making the cereal essentially toxic. Not to mention the fact that most cereals contain a host of artificial ingredients, and most of the cereals that contain whole grains also contain refined grains.
It can be a challenge to navigate our contemporary food landscape. And many of the foods that are marketed to us as being healthy are anything but. A good rule of thumb is just to eat real food. If it’s processed, skip it. This one tip will take you a long way toward a healthier lifestyle.
— Sarah Cooke