Nutritious Gossip: Mind/Body Exercise

Did you know, that mind body exercise like yoga, can decrease cortisol hormones in your body. These hormones are associated with stress and when they are lowered, it can lower blood pressure.

So lets grab our yoga mats and head to class, its time to wash away a stressful day!

Love,

Justine

http://healthewoman.org/2009/04/26/how-exercise-impacts-stress-hormones-and-blood-sugar-levels/

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stress/SR00001

Nutritious Gossip . . .legumes

Did You Know?

Legumes can be a good substitute for meat due to the amount of protein it contains. Most legumes contain lower amounts of fat and cholesterol than meat.

Legumes include:

• Beans
• Lentils
• Nuts
• Peas

Legume Ideas:

*Use beans and lentils to make delicious soups and chili's. 

*Nuts make the perfect snack between meals everyday.
*Peas are always a healthy side dish for lunch or dinner.

Try trading out the turkey sandwich or chicken dinner routine, and spice up your life with a variety of legumes. Your body will appreciate it in many ways!

Love,

Justine

Legume Sites:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/legumes/NU00260

http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/legumes.html

http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/foods/legumes/

Miracle Veggie: Edamame Nutrition

Eda-WHAT?! . .
. .  a japanese word for soybeans that are not fully matured, picked then boiled in their pod.

I am bringing up edamame not only because of its amazing taste, but it's amazing health benefits. I would  consider edamame my food addiction. Lucky me, it's a healthy addiction, and quite affordable! Coming across a vegetable with a healthy source of protein, vitamins and minerals, and a great taste was a glorious discovery. Here are three healthy reasons why I think you should fit edamame on your grocery list.

Maintaining firm skin during weight loss

During weight loss, skin needs love and attention just like the rest our body. Many factors can affect how well your skin will react to changes. If you have been neglecting your skin, there is no need to worry. I have a few simple ways to get your skin right on track with your firming figure.

Nutritious Gossip

DID YOU KNOW?
That Partially Hydrogenated Oil is a food manufacturers way of making unsaturated fat a solid form, similar to butter. This is an inexpensive way for manufacturers to extend shelf life and add flavor to the food. The problem is that these oils, when hydrogenated, turn into a dangerous trans fat. It increases cholesterol levels and your body has a hard time digesting it.

Here is another good reason to always check your nutrition fact labels. If you see Hydrogenated oils on the ingredient list of the nutrition fact label, I recommend just putting it back!

Love, 

Justine

Taking Care of Your Ticker, Part II

Along with a healthy diet, exercise is essential in maintaining positive cardiovascular health. When exercise is incorporated into a healthy lifestyle it can strengthen your heart, improve its function in our body, and assist in reversing damage that has been done.

Most people are aware of the benefits exercise has on the heart. The question is: What type of exercise is best for my heart? Here is a workout guide for maximum improvement of your heart.

Taking Care of Your Ticker, Part I

Each heart beat is a signal for our bodies to keep going. For our heart to continue working for us, we need to take care of it. One of the easiest ways to start caring for your cardiovascular health is by eating heart-healthy foods. Here are a few foods to incorporate into your diet everyday.