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Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Energy Fair - January 22nd
Melt Belly Rolls and 19 Other Reasons to Drink Green Tea
For some time now, it seems like the health community is abuzz with
talk of green tea – and for good reason! There doesn’t seem to be much
that this supercharged beverage can’t do.
Green tea, like its black tea relatives, is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The difference lies in how the leaves are treated. To make black and oolong teas, the leaves are dried and fermented. For green tea, on the other hand, the leaves are simply dried and withered, leaving many natural antioxidants intact.
One antioxidant group found in green tea – preserved by the gentle process by which the leaves are treated – is known as the catechin group. Six different catechins have been identified in green tea by researchers.These antioxidants have been linked to many health benefits, including being one of your greatest allies in the war against belly rolls.
Melt stubborn belly fat!
When you sit down or bend over are there a few extra rolls getting in the way? Belly rolls can be super stubborn and even though you may be exercising and eating well, they may still plague you. Here is some good news….
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Nutrition tested the effects of green tea catechins on a group of overweight and obese adults. The group was placed on an exercise plan in order to help them lose weight, while supplementing with the catechins. On their results, the study authors wrote:
“Percentage changes in total abdominal fat area… subcutaneous abdominal fat area, and fasting serum triglycerides (TG) were greater in the catechin group. These findings suggest that green tea catechin consumption enhances exercise-induced changes in abdominal fat and serum TG.”
These observed benefits may be at least partly due to the presence of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a noteable catechin found in green tea. Along with helping to fight belly fat, EGCG has been linked to increasing metabolism, releasing stored fat in the body, and combating cravings.
Green tea may even help to rid your body of unwanted cellulite.
Reduce cancer risk
Drinking green tea has been linked to a reduced risk of several types of cancers. A 2014 study performed at the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center found that EGCG helped to slow the growth of pancreatic cancer cells – and may even induce tumor cell death.
Another study, performed in 2013 and published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, found that green tea could help to stunt the growth of breast cancer cells. The study authors wrote:
“The present study demonstrated that the CS [Camellia sinensis] aqueous extract, which closely mimics green tea beverage, has potent antitumor and anti-metastasis effects in breast cancer and could protect the bone from breast cancer-induced bone destruction.”
Research has also linked green tea, and namely EGCG, to inhibiting the growth of prostate, cervical and colorectal cancers.
Reduce diabetes risk
A 2013 study performed at Chung-Ang University College of Medicine in South Korea linked green tea to reduced blood sugar levels and improved insulin sensitivity. The researchers state that green tea could be beneficial in both the prevention, and potentially the treatment, of type 2 diabetes.
Support optimal heart health
The many antioxidants in green tea – including the catechins as well as flavonoids – are linked to improving artery function and helping to prevent the aggregation of platelets (a known factor in heart disease). The authors of a 2013 study published in the Diabetes & Metabolism Journal wrote:
“A population-based, prospective cohort study has shown that green tea consumption is associated with reduced mortality due to all causes and cardiovascular disease as well, and randomized controlled trials have indicated that green tea is effective in decreasing blood pressure, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, oxidative stress, and a marker of chronic inflammation.”
Fight inflammation
Green tea is highly anti-inflammatory in nature, thus helping to lower the risk of many diseases with chronic inflammation at their core. In fact, the catechins in green tea have been found to be even more potent than vitamins C and E in combating oxidative stress damage to cells.
Boost your cognitive powers
A 2014 study performed at the University of Basel in Switzerland associated green tea extract with a boost in overall cognitive function, including working memory. The researchers hypothesize that green tea could be used to prevent and potentially improve cognitive conditions such as dementia.
The study authors wrote: “Our findings suggest that green tea might increase the short-term synaptic plasticity of the brain.”
Feel better
Feeling stressed out or depressed? Green tea may be able to help. Drinking green tea has been linked to lower instances of depression in elderly individuals. This tea also contains an amino acid known as theanine, which is known to help ease anxiety and stress.
Look younger
The polyphenol antioxidants found in green tea not only lower disease-promoting inflammation, they are also linked to slowing down the signs of aging, reducing sun damage, and promoting healthy, vibrant skin and hair.
Keep joints limber
Drinking green tea can help to block the production of an enzyme known as chemokine in the body. These enzymes are linked to inflammation, and especially to compromising cartilage. Because of its suppression of this enzyme, green tea is linked to potentially reducing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
Enjoy superior oral health
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that drinking green tea on a regular basis may help to promote healthy teeth and gums, as well as to reduce the risk of periodontal disease. This is key, as periodontal disease is linked to the progression of both diabetes and heart disease.
Soothe allergies naturally
The EGCG found in green tea has been linked to inhibiting certain histamine-producing cell receptors. This may help to prevent, or ease, reactions to common allergens.
On top of these benefits, drinking organic green tea can also help you:
-The Alternative Daily
Green tea, like its black tea relatives, is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The difference lies in how the leaves are treated. To make black and oolong teas, the leaves are dried and fermented. For green tea, on the other hand, the leaves are simply dried and withered, leaving many natural antioxidants intact.
One antioxidant group found in green tea – preserved by the gentle process by which the leaves are treated – is known as the catechin group. Six different catechins have been identified in green tea by researchers.These antioxidants have been linked to many health benefits, including being one of your greatest allies in the war against belly rolls.
Melt stubborn belly fat!
When you sit down or bend over are there a few extra rolls getting in the way? Belly rolls can be super stubborn and even though you may be exercising and eating well, they may still plague you. Here is some good news….
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Nutrition tested the effects of green tea catechins on a group of overweight and obese adults. The group was placed on an exercise plan in order to help them lose weight, while supplementing with the catechins. On their results, the study authors wrote:
“Percentage changes in total abdominal fat area… subcutaneous abdominal fat area, and fasting serum triglycerides (TG) were greater in the catechin group. These findings suggest that green tea catechin consumption enhances exercise-induced changes in abdominal fat and serum TG.”
These observed benefits may be at least partly due to the presence of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a noteable catechin found in green tea. Along with helping to fight belly fat, EGCG has been linked to increasing metabolism, releasing stored fat in the body, and combating cravings.
Green tea may even help to rid your body of unwanted cellulite.
Reduce cancer risk
Drinking green tea has been linked to a reduced risk of several types of cancers. A 2014 study performed at the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center found that EGCG helped to slow the growth of pancreatic cancer cells – and may even induce tumor cell death.
Another study, performed in 2013 and published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, found that green tea could help to stunt the growth of breast cancer cells. The study authors wrote:
“The present study demonstrated that the CS [Camellia sinensis] aqueous extract, which closely mimics green tea beverage, has potent antitumor and anti-metastasis effects in breast cancer and could protect the bone from breast cancer-induced bone destruction.”
Research has also linked green tea, and namely EGCG, to inhibiting the growth of prostate, cervical and colorectal cancers.
Reduce diabetes risk
A 2013 study performed at Chung-Ang University College of Medicine in South Korea linked green tea to reduced blood sugar levels and improved insulin sensitivity. The researchers state that green tea could be beneficial in both the prevention, and potentially the treatment, of type 2 diabetes.
Support optimal heart health
The many antioxidants in green tea – including the catechins as well as flavonoids – are linked to improving artery function and helping to prevent the aggregation of platelets (a known factor in heart disease). The authors of a 2013 study published in the Diabetes & Metabolism Journal wrote:
“A population-based, prospective cohort study has shown that green tea consumption is associated with reduced mortality due to all causes and cardiovascular disease as well, and randomized controlled trials have indicated that green tea is effective in decreasing blood pressure, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, oxidative stress, and a marker of chronic inflammation.”
Fight inflammation
Green tea is highly anti-inflammatory in nature, thus helping to lower the risk of many diseases with chronic inflammation at their core. In fact, the catechins in green tea have been found to be even more potent than vitamins C and E in combating oxidative stress damage to cells.
Boost your cognitive powers
A 2014 study performed at the University of Basel in Switzerland associated green tea extract with a boost in overall cognitive function, including working memory. The researchers hypothesize that green tea could be used to prevent and potentially improve cognitive conditions such as dementia.
The study authors wrote: “Our findings suggest that green tea might increase the short-term synaptic plasticity of the brain.”
Feel better
Feeling stressed out or depressed? Green tea may be able to help. Drinking green tea has been linked to lower instances of depression in elderly individuals. This tea also contains an amino acid known as theanine, which is known to help ease anxiety and stress.
Look younger
The polyphenol antioxidants found in green tea not only lower disease-promoting inflammation, they are also linked to slowing down the signs of aging, reducing sun damage, and promoting healthy, vibrant skin and hair.
Keep joints limber
Drinking green tea can help to block the production of an enzyme known as chemokine in the body. These enzymes are linked to inflammation, and especially to compromising cartilage. Because of its suppression of this enzyme, green tea is linked to potentially reducing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
Enjoy superior oral health
A 2009 study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that drinking green tea on a regular basis may help to promote healthy teeth and gums, as well as to reduce the risk of periodontal disease. This is key, as periodontal disease is linked to the progression of both diabetes and heart disease.
Soothe allergies naturally
The EGCG found in green tea has been linked to inhibiting certain histamine-producing cell receptors. This may help to prevent, or ease, reactions to common allergens.
On top of these benefits, drinking organic green tea can also help you:
Amplify your immune system,
- Balance blood pressure,
- Keep your bones strong,
- Aid in liver detoxification,
- Shed excess water weight,
- Reduce asthma symptoms,
- Prevent ulcers and other gastrointestinal issues,
- Fend off hair loss, and
- Enjoy natural energy.
-The Alternative Daily
Loyola Doctor Recommends Traditional Chinese Medicine for Better Winter Health
All too often, we hear about a sort of “war” between Western medicine
and traditional Eastern remedies. Many health experts choose to get
behind one and denounce the other – which is highly counterproductive,
as both have important functions and benefits.
Because of this familiar divide, it is highly encouraging to see doctors who are embracing the medicines of the West and the East, and integrating both into their practice. This has a world of benefits for patients, who are then given more options, and more knowledge, to better navigate their health.
One such doctor is Dr. Aaron Michelfelder, a family medicine and integrative medicine physician and professor at Loyola University in Chicago. In a recent publication, Dr. Michelfelder recommends some of the principles of traditional Chinese medicine to help us thrive during the cold season.
Dr. Michelfelder states, “traditional Chinese medicine teaches us to live in harmony with the seasons to protect our health. Making certain adjustments to our diet, sleep regimen and lifestyle will make us more in sync with nature and better equipped to cope with the plunging temperatures.”
Along with eating less, due to reduced physical activity in the winter months, Dr. Michelfelder recommends warming foods and herbs. These include foods such as hearty soups and stews, made with grass-fed meats, sweet potatoes, spicy peppers and winter squash. To keep you nice and toasty, make a big pot of one of these great immunity-boosting soups.
A
few of the warming herbs that Dr. Michelfelder recommends include
garlic, ginger and cinnamon. Cumin, turmeric and cayenne pepper are
three more great options. Use these liberally to season your meals, or
add to teas and smoothies, for antioxidant power plus a boost of warmth.
Dr. Michelfelder also recommends getting more sleep – nine to ten hours instead of seven to eight. This, he explains, is dictated by traditional Chinese medicine, because the days are shorter, and the nights naturally longer to allow for more rest. Getting enough downtime is also important, he says, and meditation can help slow our minds to get into the groove.
Feeling the winter blues already? Try these fun winter exercise ideas to get you moving and out of that slump.
Stay warm!
-The Alternative Daily
Because of this familiar divide, it is highly encouraging to see doctors who are embracing the medicines of the West and the East, and integrating both into their practice. This has a world of benefits for patients, who are then given more options, and more knowledge, to better navigate their health.
One such doctor is Dr. Aaron Michelfelder, a family medicine and integrative medicine physician and professor at Loyola University in Chicago. In a recent publication, Dr. Michelfelder recommends some of the principles of traditional Chinese medicine to help us thrive during the cold season.
Dr. Michelfelder states, “traditional Chinese medicine teaches us to live in harmony with the seasons to protect our health. Making certain adjustments to our diet, sleep regimen and lifestyle will make us more in sync with nature and better equipped to cope with the plunging temperatures.”
Along with eating less, due to reduced physical activity in the winter months, Dr. Michelfelder recommends warming foods and herbs. These include foods such as hearty soups and stews, made with grass-fed meats, sweet potatoes, spicy peppers and winter squash. To keep you nice and toasty, make a big pot of one of these great immunity-boosting soups.
A
few of the warming herbs that Dr. Michelfelder recommends include
garlic, ginger and cinnamon. Cumin, turmeric and cayenne pepper are
three more great options. Use these liberally to season your meals, or
add to teas and smoothies, for antioxidant power plus a boost of warmth.Dr. Michelfelder also recommends getting more sleep – nine to ten hours instead of seven to eight. This, he explains, is dictated by traditional Chinese medicine, because the days are shorter, and the nights naturally longer to allow for more rest. Getting enough downtime is also important, he says, and meditation can help slow our minds to get into the groove.
Feeling the winter blues already? Try these fun winter exercise ideas to get you moving and out of that slump.
Stay warm!
-The Alternative Daily
Give Your Immune System a Natural Boost with These 6 Herbs and Spices
With cold and flu season approaching, we all need to give some extra
attention to our immune system, which battles behind the scenes to fight
off all sorts of problems and infections to keep us healthy.
Here are 6 spices and herbs that can give you that extra boost!
Echinacea
Echinacea is a herb native to the Americas, renowned for its healing and immune boosting properties. The chief benefit of echinacea is that it makes our own immune system more efficient in eradicating bacteria and viruses, which therefore shortens the duration of colds and flus. Echinacea is usually taken at the first sign of these illnesses.
Ginseng
Ginseng is one of the most well-known and widely used herbal remedies in the world. Many people take ginseng regularly to improve physical and mental performance under stress, and to promote overall well-being. Research has shown that ginseng can also boost the immune system and prevent certain infections, as well as decrease the duration of the common cold.
This is definitely one of the first herbs you should turn to when there’s something going around at work, or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather.
Garlic
This powerful and pungent spice has been used for centuries to boost the immune system and ward off all kinds of invaders—including vampires. In laboratory tests, researchers have witnessed garlic combat bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Garlic is most effective raw, but have no fear: simply chewing on a sprig of parsley or fresh mint leaves after you eat it will nix the bad breath.
Ginger
Ginger is a great tool for naturally boosting the immune system, as this herb is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial in nature. It’s also been shown to inhibit cancer cell formation while instigating the body’s own cancer fighting response.
Turmeric
We’ve been hearing a lot of the health benefits and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric, and it turns out it’s also an extremely effective immune system booster. Turmeric not only fights off illnesses, it actually helps prevent them.
This delicious spice has been shown to exert pro-immune activity in all of the following cases: autoimmune diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, allergies, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis.
That’s powerful stuff!
Oregano oil
As an immune booster, oregano oil may be unparalleled. It’s high in antioxidants, and also contains powerful antimicrobial properties that can help fight colds and coughs, improve digestion, and support your respiratory system. It’s been proven to be effective against 25 different strains of bacteria, and it’s also been shown to fight against yeast and fungal infections.
As with any essential oil, always dilute oil of oregano before taking it, and make sure you have a high-quality, food-grade oil.
Although these herbs and spices can absolutely help your immune system when you’re coming down with something or when you need an extra boost, don’t wait until you’re feeling sick to take care of yourself! The best ways to support your immune system on a daily basis are to eat a healthy diet, exercise, get enough sleep and manage your stress levels.
-The Alternative Daily
Here are 6 spices and herbs that can give you that extra boost!
Echinacea
Echinacea is a herb native to the Americas, renowned for its healing and immune boosting properties. The chief benefit of echinacea is that it makes our own immune system more efficient in eradicating bacteria and viruses, which therefore shortens the duration of colds and flus. Echinacea is usually taken at the first sign of these illnesses.
Ginseng
Ginseng is one of the most well-known and widely used herbal remedies in the world. Many people take ginseng regularly to improve physical and mental performance under stress, and to promote overall well-being. Research has shown that ginseng can also boost the immune system and prevent certain infections, as well as decrease the duration of the common cold.
This is definitely one of the first herbs you should turn to when there’s something going around at work, or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather.
Garlic
This powerful and pungent spice has been used for centuries to boost the immune system and ward off all kinds of invaders—including vampires. In laboratory tests, researchers have witnessed garlic combat bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Garlic is most effective raw, but have no fear: simply chewing on a sprig of parsley or fresh mint leaves after you eat it will nix the bad breath.
Ginger
Ginger is a great tool for naturally boosting the immune system, as this herb is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial in nature. It’s also been shown to inhibit cancer cell formation while instigating the body’s own cancer fighting response.
Turmeric
We’ve been hearing a lot of the health benefits and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric, and it turns out it’s also an extremely effective immune system booster. Turmeric not only fights off illnesses, it actually helps prevent them.
This delicious spice has been shown to exert pro-immune activity in all of the following cases: autoimmune diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, allergies, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis.
That’s powerful stuff!
Oregano oil
As an immune booster, oregano oil may be unparalleled. It’s high in antioxidants, and also contains powerful antimicrobial properties that can help fight colds and coughs, improve digestion, and support your respiratory system. It’s been proven to be effective against 25 different strains of bacteria, and it’s also been shown to fight against yeast and fungal infections.
As with any essential oil, always dilute oil of oregano before taking it, and make sure you have a high-quality, food-grade oil.
Although these herbs and spices can absolutely help your immune system when you’re coming down with something or when you need an extra boost, don’t wait until you’re feeling sick to take care of yourself! The best ways to support your immune system on a daily basis are to eat a healthy diet, exercise, get enough sleep and manage your stress levels.
-The Alternative Daily
Suicide Awareness
Book Launch and Suicide Awareness Event
Meet
the authors of "Suicide in Schools" Terri Erbacher and Jonathan Singer.
Book signing and discussion; stay for dinner and 15% of the proceeds go
to the sponsors for suicide prevention efforts.
When: January 29th, 2015
Where: Maggie Hook's Grille, 9 State Rd, Media, PA 19063
RSVP by January 22, 2015 to Ellen_Chung@elwyn.org
Rewind
Rewind is
an intervention program designed for youth who have a mild to moderate
history with alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. Also, for youth who
experience barriers in school. Please, call ahead to sign-up for space
is limited.
First 3 Tuesday's of every month
First 2 sessions 5:30pm-7:00pm, the 3rd Parent session is from 6:00pm-7:30pm
For
more information or to register for Holcomb's January Events and
Trainings, please contact Holcomb Behavioral Health Systems at: 484-444-0412
The Strong African American Families Program
This FREE 7-week interactive and exciting program is available for parents/caregivers and their youth ages 10-14.
This Program...
· Promotes youth's self-pride.
· Strengthens parents'/
· Teaches youth skills for dealing with temptation and peer pressure.
Requirements:
Identify as Black or African American and youth must be in Middle School
$200 available to families upon completion of the program!
*free childcare services provided for children under 10.
January's Program
Yeadon Library
809 Longacre Blvd
Yeadon, PA 19050
Thursdays starting January 15th, 2015 from 6-8pm
Programs are starting regularly throughout Delaware County
If you are interested in registering for this program,
please contact Kellee Greene at 484-444-0412
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