Way to nourish your body's vital gland

Living Foods. They're foods that are alive raw (not cooked) and filled with life. They're also called raw foods or live foods.

You can plant them, pick them, sprout them or simply eat them. In each case you get life! That's because life comes from life. These foods are your "true north," your path home to health in a jungle of dietary havoc, contaminated food and abounding confusion about what and how to eat.

Good health is the result of consuming whole, unprocessed, clean food with a large percentage of that being raw and alive. These foods are chock-full of nutrients, water and fiber that flush away toxins, waste and "sludge" from our cells and intercellular fluids.

They help us prevent disease. They alkalize our bodies and help us restore our pH balance. And they give our cells vital light rays of energy to help them communicate more effectively.

Since your thyroid is a key gland that's tied to every other system in your body, it needs to work flawlessly. When it's out of balance, you're out of balance. If you have a number of the symptoms of low thyroid, chances are that you could benefit by working on your thyroid health by eating more living foods.

Some foods boost thyroid function, which makes them perfect for treating hypothyroidism, while others suppress thyroid function, which can help people with hyperthyroidism. And there are certain foods that are best avoided by anyone who is concerned about having a healthy thyroid gland and overall good health.

The following raw foods are among the most helpful for restoring thyroid balance whether you have an underactive or overactive thyroid:

• Fresh raw vegetable juices
• Low-sugar fruit, especially lemons, limes, cranberries and other berries, and green apples
• Raw nuts and seeds
• Seaweed for its rich iodine content (for hypothyroid)
• Chlorophyll-rich green juices such as watercress, collards, chard, kale, kohlrabi

Leaves, beet greens and parsley (vary the cruciferous greens with other non-cruciferous greens, such as lettuce, beet greens, watercress and spinach, if you have hypothyroidism)

source: charismamag.com

Health: 15 Things Amazing Things You Didn’t Know Toothpaste Could Do

FOR BEAUTY:
Toothpaste contains many useful ingredients that can be soothing and healing to the skin. For this reason, you’ll be able to use toothpaste to help you with the following issues:

1. Pimples. Reduce redness and the size of your pimples with a dab of toothpaste. Let it sit overnight, then rinse away in the morning for a noticeable difference.

2. Brittle fingernails. Since our nails are made of the same enamel as teeth, toothpaste can do a lot to help them. Simply give your nails a good scrub with some toothpaste for cleaner, shinier, stronger nails. You’ll also get that dirt out from underneath them in no time!

3. Fly-away hair. A gel toothpaste is largely made with the same ingredients as basic hair gels, so you’ll be able to substitute easily here. Just use a little dab and apply like a hair gel when needed.

FIRST AID:
Beyond beauty care, you’ll also find helpful ways to use toothpaste in that first aid kit. Keep a small tube tucked inside your kit for these emergencies:

4. Bites, sores, and blisters. Apply toothpaste to areas of skin irritation to reduce itching, swelling, and irritation. Toothpaste will dry them up quickly and help them heal faster.

5. Burns. For minor burns with no open sores, a quick toothpaste application can give you instant relief. The cooling properties get to work right away, relieving that painful sting. In the long-term, toothpaste will keep the burn from becoming a painful, oozing blister.

6. Bruises. For large bruises that take forever to fade, use a little toothpaste and a wide-tooth comb. Apply the toothpaste and gently comb the bruise in one direction to break up the blood clotting beneath the skin. Toothpaste helps with circulation and fights off the inflammation.

FASHION:
Our clothing and accessories can also benefit from many of the ingredients found in the average tube of toothpaste. Give these a try:

7. Jewelry cleaner. Before you pay for someone else to clean it, rub toothpaste onto your silver jewelry and leave it overnight, the wipe it clean with a soft cloth. Give a light scrubbing to your diamonds to see them sparkle again, just be sure to rinse thoroughly. Avoid using toothpaste on pearls.

8. Show care. Scuffed or dirty shoes can look new again with a little toothpaste. Apply it directly to the dull, dirty, or scuffed parts of the shoe, scrub with a brush, and wipe them clean. Ta-da!

9. Clothing stains. Tough stains will disappear with a little toothpaste and some brisk scrubbing. Squeeze it right on the stain and rub until it disappears, then wash as normal. If using whitening toothpaste, be advised that this can have a bleaching effect on some colors and fabrics.

HOUSEHOLD:
Toothpaste can save you money around the house by helping with some very basic tasks:

10. Computer cleaner. Scrub away fingerprints from your keyboard with a white, baking soda-based toothpaste. Follow up with a damp cloth and your keys are good as new!

11. Iron cleaner. Take away the “crusties” from the bottom of your clothes iron with a quick toothpaste rinse. Just be sure to remove all the toothpaste before you start ironing again.

12. Baby bottles. To freshen up baby bottles and remove that sour-milk smell, put some toothpaste on your bottle scrubber and give them a quick wash. Always rinse them very well afterwards.

13. Piano keys. Like computer keys, piano keys get grubby with repeated use from the dirt, oil, and grime on our fingertips. Use a damp cloth and some toothpaste to rub down the keys, then wipe them clean with a dry cloth.

14. Crayon stains. Undo your kids’ damage to the walls with a damp cloth and some toothpaste. Rub it in gentle circles and watch the crayon fade away.

15. Odor removal. After cooking with “stinky” foods in the kitchen (fish, garlic, onions, etc.), getting the smell out of the skin is a challenge. Wash your hands thoroughly with water and toothpaste for a quick and easy remedy.

Health: What The Shape And Size Of Your Finger Nails Says About You

Throughout the centuries there were different ways that could supposedly determine someone’s personality by just one look.

These theories and beliefs often connect certain body parts with the characteristics of a person. Some presume that the size and the shape of the nails can determine the personality.
There is even science called phrenology dedicated to analysing the character features based on the measuring of the skull in the past and it was believed that the proximity of someone’s eyes is a sign of an artistic talent. The current trends are focused on the shape of the nails.
Initially, it started in Asia and since then, it also spread in the west. In principle, everything depends on you and how deeply you read, how much do You really believe in these things, because no matter how precise it is, it is still fun.
Here is the reading according to the photo above. Find your shape and number and read what kind of a personality are you.


nails-forms
1. Vertical long nail – mild temper, precise, creative. These people are generally getting on well with everyone.

2. Wide nails – sincere, without absurdities, short tempered, theoreticians. These people always speak the truth, no matter what and they often give advices to other people.

3 and 4. Round or egg shaped – These people are relaxed, unique, positive and reasonable. They live with their own rhythm and they do not allow small things to destroy their lives, which means they have many long-term friends.

5. Square shape – They are leaders, strong, skillful and brave. Tey are often very serious and people see them as leaders, but they also have a soft side which is reserved only for their close ones.



6 and 7. Triangle or invert nails – smart, perfectionists, innovative, original. It is possible that these people are geniouses and think faster than the others. Usually other people are fascinated by them.

8. Almond shape – True, sincere, friendly, beautiful. These people are very kind although they are standing firmly on the ground when that is necessary, people enjoy their company and love te way they solve problems. source: beextrahealthynow

9. Sword shape – inspirative, productive, visionaries, focused. They are focused on longterm aims and see the “wider picture”, they influence people by reqarding and their positive way.

what do you think now, free free to comment.....

Chou’s Vinegar Chicken

Ingredients 8-10 chicken drumsticks
4 whole garlic cloves, peeled
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp sunflower oil
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
¼ bottle of dry white wine
1 heaping tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions1. Take your chicken out of the fridge to bring it to room temp. Pat your chicken with paper towels to remove excess moisture and sprinkle all the drumsticks with a little bit of salt.

2. Put some paper towels on a plate and set near your stovetop.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil in a pan over high heat, until butter has fully melted and oil is very hot.

4. Once the oil is nice and hot, add the chicken and cook until the skin is crispy and the color is golden brown (but don’t let the meat cook through yet). Add the full garlic cloves towards the end of browning.

5. Move the browned chicken to your plate with paper towels.

6. Pour 1/3 cup of vinegar and deglaze the pan (translation: take a wooden spoon and scrape the bottom of the pan so you remove all the yummy crispy bits).

7. Wait 5 minutes until vinegar is reduced and then put the chicken back in.

8. In a bowl, combine the quarter bottle of white wine, the tomato paste, and Dijon mustard.

9. Pour the wine mixture on top of the chicken. Reduce heat to low/medium and cook for about 30 minutes or until chicken meat is cooked through. Turn the chicken after 10-15 minutes to make sure the chicken is coated and cooking evenly.

10. About 2 minutes before your remove the chicken from the heat, you can add in the cream and mix in well.

11. Add salt and pepper to taste. Move the chicken to a serving platter, pour all the yummy sauce and garlic all over the chicken, and serve. source: yahoo.com

Your fingers can reveal something about your personality?

Did you know that the length of your fingers can reveal something about your personality!?

Compare the length of the index finger and ring finger and see if it matches with some of your characteristics.

The image shows three types of finger lengths, marked A, B and C. Check your fingers and discover the meaning below.

A) They say that people in which the ring finger is longer than the index finger are very beautiful in appearance. They radiate with charm that others find irresistible. In addition, they are more aggressive and decisive and it is no problem for them to take a risk. The profession they usually have is: soldier, engineer, chess player and they are also successful in solving crosswords. Scientists have discovered that people with longer ring fingers earn more than people with shorter ring fingers.

B) People with shorter ring fingers than the index fingers have a great deal of self-confidence, they are full of them self and arrogant. They enjoy solitude and do not like to be disturbed in their free time. They are not the type of person who will take the first step when it comes to relationships, but they always accept and appreciate the attention they receive.

C) Persons in which the length of the ring finger and index finger are the same are peace loving, and feel uncomfortable when they find themselves in a conflict. They are well organized and try to get along with everybody. They are characterized by the fact that they tend to be faithful in a relationship, full of tenderness and caring toward their partners. read it here

Your Feet are a reflection of your personality

The shape of a foot can reveal a person's characteristic traits and even provide information about his/her state of mind and health.

In terms of shape, there are four different types of feet that determine the way we are. Let's see what this is all about. 

1:THE SQUARE FOOT . This refers to a foot with a slightly obtuse, in which the length of the toes, including the first or big toe, is almost the same, giving rise to a form similar to that of a rectangle.It is also called 'Giselle' or 'Peasant Foot' and is characteristic of those who like to ponder and relentlessly examine every decision, always weighing up the positive and negative aspects.In this case, it refers to individuals who never go with the flow and always decide based on a set of principles, therefore being very practical in their choices. These people are reliable and secure, who always finish what they set out to do.

2: FLAME FOOT. Also called "Fire Foot" or 'Greek Foot', it is characterized by the presence of a narrower second toe (long toe) than the rest of the toes, which protrudes from the toe axis. The fingers are spread apart and create a shape that is similar to that of a triangle. Someone who possesses feet such as this is an active, sporting and creative individual, who loves movement and is characterized by a strong enthusiasm.This person can also encourage and motivate those around him/her. On the other hand, this individual is also very impulsive, which can occasionally lead to excessive stress for himself/herself and those around him/her.

3:THE COMMON FOOT. Also known as the 'Roman Foot', this is characteristic of someone with a 

balanced and well-proportioned body shape and it is typical of someone who has an extrovert and sociable nature. The owner is always ready to learn new things and to engage in innovative intellectual experiences. This is a distinguishing feature of travellers, which is why it is sometimes called the "foot of air". This is to say that the owner has light feet, with toes and big toe in proportion to each other so that the feet are aerodynamic.He who owns this foot loves to discover new cultures, always enhancing and enriching his own. In this case, excessive safety can become an issue as the owner turns to excessive pride or eccentricity in his behaviour. source: 2unitrending.info

4: STRETCHED FOOT. With an elongated, tight shape, this foot features toes that are fused together and a big toe that tapers toward the top. This foot has a rather delicate and subtle shape, denoting dreamer and an idealist spirit. The "Water Foot" or 'Egyptian Foot' belongs to those who cherish their private life and are full of hidden aspects, without feeling the urge to look reality in the face. We are dealing with someone who often changes mood, rebelling to everyday life and denoting certain impulsiveness.

Even the shape and size of the toes and fingernails reveals that there are other sides of their  character that are not available for us to explore at first sight. For example, those with small feet love life and like to have a very hectic job, while larger feet are characteristic of those with the greatest desire to succeed in new ventures. Crooked fingers are a sign of surrender, long ones denote ambition, and a very large big toe symbolizes a high degree of rationality. The feet can also provide insight into the health of an individual with the help of reflexology. Massaging some portions of the foot creates nerve stimulations that are transmitted directly to the brain and cause a state of well-being. This can also relieve pain for those who complain of discomfort in the abdomen, especially in the stomach and intestine regions. It may even help you find out if you have a predisposition to developing lung cancer by detecting the presence of nicotine in your toenails. A clear sign that this may be happening, and which smokers should be weary of, is when the nails begin to turn yellow.

Health: 9 Signs You May Have Heart Trouble

Even with knowledge and all of these advancements, Atherosclerosis continues to be the No. 1 silent killer in the United States. Atherosclerosis is a constricting or clogging of the arteries, preventing them from carrying vital nutrients through the body. It can lead to both heart attack and stroke.

Not all of the symptoms of a heart attack are the same, especially between men and women. It some cases the signs may be painfully obvious, but in others they may be much more subtle.

The information that follows are indicators that something may be wrong with your heart. They could also be caused by something entirely different. There are two very important steps that you should take. One is to not panic and the second is speak with your personal physician about any of the signs that you may be suffering from. Remember that only a medical professional can assess your situation. Never rely on Google for a serious diagnosis.

1. Lethargy and fatigue. Simple fatigue from a day of overworking or not receiving adequate sleep is perfectly normal. Severe fatigue on a regular basis which simply does not go away after a good night's rest could be a sign that something is amiss with your heart. This is the type of tiredness you feel when you are coming down with the flu.

Director of Women's Heart Health at the Heart and Vascular Institute at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City Suzanne Steinbaum, urges people, especially women, not to dismiss this ongoing fatigue. It could be a warning sign that something is wrong with your heart.

The reason for the extreme fatigue in these cases is that your heart is in distress from tying to transport vital oxygen for your body through constricted or clogged arteries. The reasons that this causes severe lethargy and extreme fatigue is twofold. First, your heart is tired from working overtime and your body is still not receiving the proper oxygen levels it requires for optimal functioning.

2. Peripheral edema. Peripheral edema is when extremities of the body swell such as ankles and feet. There are numerous non-life-threatening reasons that these areas swell such as varicose veins and pregnancy. But it may also be something much more serious such as poor circulation and/or congestive heart failure. This can cause a chronic condition in which your heart is not able to pump blood efficiently.

A professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of the Maryland School of Medicine states that peripheral edema of the feet can also be a sign that one or more valves in your heart is unable to close properly. This swelling can also be the result of taking certain types of medication such as those for diabetes and/or hypertension. If swelling does correlate with heart issues, in most cases, there will be other indications as well. It may be accompanied by extreme fatigue and/or shortness of breath. It is best to consult your medical professional to determine exactly what is causing the edema.

3. Excruciating pain while walking. If the muscles of your legs and hips may cramp severely when you walk, but then relax upon resting. Do not automatically dismiss this sign as a curse of growing older. This could be a symptom of PAD or peripheral arterial disease. This is a result of fatty plaque accumulating in your arteries and clogging them, which has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Both PAD and related cardiovascular disease are generally completely treatable as long as you listen to the early warning signs and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

4. Feeling faint or light headed. There are many different causes of dizziness which are in no way related to heart disease. Fitness gyms post signs warning individuals that they should stop exercising, if they become faint or light headed. You could simply be dehydrated or you rose from a sitting or lying too quickly. If it is reoccurring, it is important to consult a physician to determine whether it is something such as a side effect of a medication that you are currently taking or if it is related to cardiovascular disease. Dizziness may also be a warning from your heart that your blood pressure is dropping too fast or frequently. This may be the result of a defective heart valve or clogged arteries.

5. Shortness of breath. If you have been fit pretty much all of your life, but suddenly become short of breath when performing those same routine exercises, it could be the result of an infection, anemia or asthma. It could be something much more serious, especially if you began to feel this way after simply climbing stairs and it is to the degree that it makes you cough. The heart may be having trouble pumping blood and/or your heart valves may be injured.

A defective heart valve can cause fluid to accumulate that may cause wheezing and coughing that are often mistaken for bronchial asthma. Once the valve is repaired or replaced it eliminates fluid from the lungs and allows the patient to breathe much easier. Be sure that you consult your doctor about this warning sign.

6. Depression. Depression is extremely prevalent throughout the entire world. More than 19 million people are affected every year in the United States alone. While depression is not generally an actual direct symptom of cardiovascular disease, studies show that it can increase the risk of heart disease. Those who suffer from other symptoms of cardiovascular disease or are hereditarily at risk for it are more likely to suffer from depression as well. Physical and mental health are closely related and play an integral part in your overall well-being. It is essential that you speak with a medical professional immediately, if you are suffering from depression whether you believe it is related to heart disease or not.

7. Frequent migraines. There are all sorts of reason that you may get a headache. It could be the result of stress, allergies or the beginning of a cold. Frequent migraines are an indicator of possible cardiovascular disease. Approximately 12 percent of the world's population suffers from migraine headaches. That figure dramatically increases to 40 percent in those diagnosed with heart disease. Numerous studies are being conducted because the exact connection remains unclear. One common theory is that it is the result of an imbalance of the autonomic nervous system and heart defects. This is because a connection has been made between these abnormalities and individuals suffering from migraines accompanied by auras.

8. Hearing your heartbeat as you fall asleep. Some individuals are able to hear their defective heart valve as they fall asleep. Some of them become adjusted to the sound and/or simply change the positions that they sleep in. It is important not to ignore this symptom and to speak with your doctor about it to determine the cause. There are several reasons why your heart may pound loud enough for you to hear. Certain medications, anemia, dehydration and low blood sugar or blood pressure are all possible causes.

9. Anxiety accompanied by nausea and sweating. Sudden panic attacks accompanied by nausea and sweating may be caused by an anxiety disorder. This may also be an indication of cardiovascular disease. If you experience this with other serious symptoms such as pain that radiates through your shoulder, back, chest and other upper extremities, it is vital that you seek immediate medical attention. This could be a sign that you are having a heart attack. Five precious minutes could be the difference between life and death.

Don Colbert, M.D

Health: Is Lemon a Cancer Cure?‏

With an increase in reporting by major media outlets discussing the many health benefits of various fruits and vegetables and how they play a part in fighting disease, you may have already heard that lemons cure cancer. While this isn’t completely factual, there have been several studies that purport to show a strong basis in using lemons for cancer treatment. It should also be noted that there are conflicting reports detailing that, while lemons and other citrus fruits do contain cancer-fighting properties, exactly how effective they are against particular types of cancer has yet to be accurately determined.

Health Benefits of Lemons for Cancer: In addition to the Vitamin C found in lemon juice, which is already a very well known alternative cancer treatment in its own right, the peel of the lemon also offers many health benefits, one of the most important being that lemon peel can help to eradicate toxins in your body. This may be why lemons for cancer are being studied and touted as a great remedy.
The connection between cancer and lemons isn’t something new; for decades, scientists have wondered, “Is lemon a cancer killer?” and have developed numerous studies to determine its validity.
Studies have revealed that lemon extract can successfully destroy malignant cells in a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer. Several research studies also make the claim that lemons can destroy cancer much more effectively than chemotherapy, and in a safer and healthier manner. Additionally, the studies also show that lemon extract therapy only affects malignant cells, leaving healthy cells unharmed.

Additional health benefits of lemons include: It is antibacterial It is antiviral It aids in digestion It can be used to treat acne It helps to regulate blood pressure It fights against parasites and worms It possesses antidepressant qualities It helps to reduce stress and anxiety.

Lemons for Cancer: How Much Do I Need to Consume? So the question you may be asking yourself is, “Do lemons cure cancer and how much lemon do I need to consume on a daily basis?” Before answering this question, it must first be noted that while numerous studies have shown effectiveness in the consumption of lemons as a cancer killer, and is still undergoing a variety of testing and research to even come close to making that assertion.
What is known is that specific compounds found in lemons (and other citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit) known as flavonoids and limonoids may either stop the formation and growth of cancer cells, or will kill them outright. These studies have mainly been conducted on animals and in laboratory conditions using human breast cancer cells.
In Europe, a study was conducted with participants afflicted with various forms of cancer, in which they consumed 150 grams of citrus four or more times a week. The citrus proved effective in decreasing the risks of cancer by significant percentages, with the exception being breast cancer. However, an American study did show a decrease in the risk of breast cancer in participants using the same portions of citrus—so long as they did not previously undergo hormone replacement therapy.
When consuming citrus, it is also important to not just consume the juice, but also the pulp and the peel, and even the seeds when possible. Further research shows that 75 grams of citrus on a daily basis might be the optimal minimum intake for those wishing to reduce the risks of cancer.

How to Add Lemons to Your Daily Diet: Because lemons are very versatile in a wide variety of dishes, it can be very easy to ensure that you have lemon in at least one of your meals each day. At the very least, you can add lemon juice to water and drink a glass of lemon water every day. This ensures that you get a good dose of Vitamin C. However, because the peel of the lemon actually contains a much larger amount of important vitamins than the juice, it is recommended that you find ways to incorporate the peel into your daily diet as well.
One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is to either peel a lemon and place the peel in the freezer, or simply freeze a whole lemon. Then you can grate as needed, adding it to salads, soups, fish, chicken, rice, pasta, and many other dishes. You can add it to seltzer, to smoothies and other drinks.

Source:
Dr. Subrata Chakravarty (Hope4Cancer.com)

How To Heal Cavities Teeth From Home, see video below

The common belief is that once you get a cavity, it cannot be healed. That way the only solution is to go to the dentist, have a part of your tooth drilled out, and have it filled in with synthetic material.

The world has been slowly waking up to the fact that, when you nourish your body, it can heal itself in ways that we previously thought impossible. Some things have been deemed completely incurable, one being dental cavities. When you actually do the research, it is now becoming blatant that that tooth decay can be reversed, and there are proven remedies!

Naturally we all assume that it is not curable, that cavities cannot heal! The fact is, this is simply not true. According to a study done by the British Medical Journal; cavities and tooth decay can be healed or even reversed. The Study was done on 62 children all with cavities, and they were divided into three different groups. Group one ate a standard diet plus oatmeal. Group 2 consumed their normal diet and supplemented it with vitamin D. Group 3 ate a grain-free diet and took vitamin D.

The results showed that group one had an increase in cavities, two had improvements in cavities, and little to no formation, and 3 had the greatest improvements to where nearly all the cavities had healed.

This study, along with the backing of many doctors and dentists along with extensive research proves that we have all been misinformed about what caused cavities and if they can truly be reversed.

What causes tooth decay?

Not enough minerals in the diet.

Not enough fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) in the diet.

Nutrients not being readily bioavailable and your intestinal system not properly absorbing them. The presence of phytic acid largely influences this factor.

Over a period of time, if your diet lacks certain vitamins and minerals from a poor diet and contains high levels of phytates, the blood chemistry and the ratio of calcium and phosphorous become out of balance, which results in minerals being pulled from bones, causing tooth decay, and bone loss.

How you can heal cavities and tooth decay:

Do not be fooled, there in addition to brushing and flossing your teeth daily, there are several ways you can reverse cavities and maximize your oral health. Here are a few ways to consider:

Remove sugar

Sugar is one of the worst culprits there is for anyone who desires healthy, cavity-free teeth, sugar should be completely rid from our diet. Sugar feeds oral bacteria that prevents a healthy flow of dental fluids; it is highly acidic and can decalcify or demineralize the structural content of teeth that creates dental decay.

Removing Phytic Acid

Phytic acid is a mineral blocker and enzyme inhibitor found in grains, nuts, seeds, and beans that can cause serious health problems. The main reason phytic acid has become an issue today is because we have stopped ancient food preparation techniques such as sprouting or sourdough fermentation that kills off the phytic acid.

Oil Pulling

Oil pulling has been used for centuries as an Ayurvedic medicine, oil pulling is an amazing way to start the detoxification procedure that has gained some popularity in the U.S. that last several years.

The best time to oil pull (like most other detoxification procedures) is first thing in the morning right after you get out of bed.

Don’t let the 20 minutes time frame deter you. You won’t even notice 20 minutes have gone by if you do this during your normal morning routine (i.e. while you shower, put your clothes on and prep for the day).

Immediately afterwards, rinse your mouth out with warm water. Use salt water for added antimicrobial properties.

Don’t be shocked if the oil/saliva mixture you spit out is milky white or yellow.

Finally, brush your teeth as normal.

Tips:

A diet high in minerals is very important.

A diet high in soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

A diet that helps all the minerals and vitamins to get absorbed in your body. This depends on the level of Phytic acid in your diet.

Supplements to consider are:

Fermented cod liver oil – very high in fat-soluble vitamins A, D and K.

Magnesium – required to use calcium and phosphorous effectively.

Gelatin – if you don’t have time to make bone broth, this is a good alternative and is great for gums and digestion.

Sources: http://buynongmoseeds.com/how-you-can-heal-cavities-naturally/

Health: What Exactly Is Stress, and How Can We Overcome It?

Stress is the internal reaction to outside circumstances. Modern life is stressful, and no two people respond to it the same way even if they are faced with the same stressors.

We are wonderfully made, and the ability of "choice" is a gift from God. With this gift comes the responsibility to make choices that best take care of our body, mind and spiritual health. However, in order to live a less stressful and more fulfilling life, we must first understand stress: what it means, what it does and how it can present.

Stress in not inherently bad. Everything in life stresses us to a point, but some stress can motivate us and wake up our brain. At the first signs of stress, the immune system, memory and the ability to learn actually all increase.

Without stress in our lives, our minds would be come dull and our bodies, weak. Good stressors can be identified as normal responsibilities: a regular schedule, productive work and study, strenuous physical exercise, interaction with others and fighting off normal germs and toxins found in the environment.

However, chronic stress can both shorten the length and diminish the quality of your life. Chronic stress from career, family obligations and even good things like ministry or volunteer work can eventually wreak havoc on your overall health. If you drove your car at a high speed every day, all day, it would wear out faster than if you drove it a reasonable amount and speed.

Stress affects the body and mind. The true cause of sickness and disease is not stress, but rather the body's inability to adapt and recover from stress. When we are stressed, our pulse rate and blood pressure increases and the adrenal gland dumps cortisol into the bloodstream.

Stress can also create a desire to escape or avoid tasks, because we believe we are out of control—and the more out of control we feel, the more stressed we become. This is what we know about stress and the body: it's not so much the amount of stress, but the amount of time you are in a state of stress.

It is possible to "catch" stress. Recent studies show that when we observe another human under stress, our bodies react empathetically as if it were our own. If people around you are consistently negative, sarcastic, combative, or stressed out, there is a good chance it will cause you to feel distress as well. The autonomic stress response (fight or flight) is triggered by both real and perceived events, so even something as small as a stressful scene in a movie can elevate your cortisol levels. Found in your common morning brew, too much caffeine puts the nervous and hormonal systems into a constant state of 'fight or flight,' depleting energy reserves and leading to anxiety, weight gain and insomnia.

You may be stressed and not even know it. Between the bromine in flour, the chlorine and fluoride in drinking water, and the carcinogenic chemicals in personal care products, our bodies are bombarded every single day with toxins that stress the entire system. When you combine an overabundance of toxins with the number of years we are absorbing these toxins unknowingly, we eventually hit the tipping point.

Years of chronic stress wear out the adrenals and immune system, and unbeknownst to us, it can feel quite normal. When our bodies are used to the high stress levels, anything different would alert us to an issue. God made thousands of foods for us to enjoy, and most of them don't even require preparation. Instead of opting for manmade foods, eat a variety of raw, natural, organic foods to nourish your body.

Understanding stress is the first step in identifying it and how it might be infiltrating your mind, body and overall health. To help combat chronic stress, make physical exercise a priority, get adequate sleep, eat a diet that optimizes gut health and learn to slow down—being busy is not synonymous with being successful.

Some stress is good, but too much stress can be harmful. A good rule to remember: Some stress motivates; more stress complicates; and a lot of stress deteriorates. source charismamag.com

SPINACH & RICOTTA CHEESE PANCAKES

You would need,

250 grams Ricotta or Home Made Cottage Cheese
1/3 C Spring Onion (green leaves only)
½ C finely chopped Spinach Leaves (washed)
2 Eggs, separated
1 Green Chilies (finely chopped)
1/3 C Rice Flour

Salt to taste
¾ tsp Chili flakes (adjust according to heat)
Oil to cook pancakes read here

Drain any excess water from the ricotta by keeping the ricotta in a strainer lined with cheese cloth or muslin cloth. Transfer the drained cheese in a mixing bowl and whisk with a spatula until smooth. Add the spring onions, egg yolks, green chillies, rice flour, salt, chili flakes and spinach leaves and mix them in well.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks are formed. Fold in half of the egg whites to the cheese mix and then add the rest of the egg whites.
Pour a teaspoon of oil on a hot griddle or non-stick pan and add 2-3 tablespoon of cheese batter. Spread it a little with the back of a spoon and cook till the bottom begins to turn brownish and then flip and cook the other side in a similar way. Remove from heat and serve with the tomato relish.
Note: The pancakes can be made ahead and reheated over the griddle pan.
Note: Be sure to use freshly made cottage cheese and not the store brought one sold in blocks.
Note: You can swap spinach with vegetable/s of your choice.
Yield: 8 (the size shown in pics)

Ginger is the perfect herb to grow indoors

Ginger is the perfect herb to grow indoors. It’s very low-maintenance, loves partial sunlight, and you can use parts of it at a time, leaving the rest in the soil to continue growing. Besides, it’s delicious! Really, what’s not to love about growing ginger inside?

A bit about ginger

Ginger takes 10 months to mature and it doesn’t tolerate frost. If you live in a place where it gets chilly in the winter, you’d be better off growing ginger in a pot indoors and bringing it outside in the summertime.

Ginger is one of those miraculous plants that grows well in partial to full shade, which makes it ideal for growing in your home, where most people don’t have full sun pouring on their windows all day long.

Little bits of the ginger root can be removed while it continues to grow. A little bit of ginger goes a long way, so these pieces can be used for cooking, brewing tea or for herbal remedies.

How to plant ginger

The best ginger to plant is purchased from a garden center or seed catalog. You’ll have much better luck if you get seed ginger that was meant to be planted. However, ginger can be hard to find from garden suppliers, especially locally.

Ginger purchased from the produce department of your local grocery store can be used to grow a plant, but with spotty results. Grocery store ginger is often sprayed with a growth inhibitor to keep it from sprouting before it’s purchased. That inhibitor also keeps it from sprouting when you stick it in a pot of soil.

Grocery store ginger also could be coated in pesticides and fungicides. The truth is, you have no idea what’s on it. I’ve heard of grocery store ginger growing just fine, and I’ve heard of it sitting in a pot forever and never budging. If you do purchase your ginger from the grocery store, be sure to soak it in water overnight to remove as much growth inhibitor as you can.

Whichever way you choose to go, here are some helpful tips for growing ginger inside:

The root that you choose to plant should be plump with tight skin, not shriveled and old. It should have several eye buds on it (bumps that look like potato eyes) and if they’re already a little green, all the better.

If your root has several eye buds, it can be cut and each bud can be placed in a separate pot to produce several plants.

Be sure to pick the perfect pot!

Unlike most other houseplants, ginger loves shallow, wide pots. The roots grow horizontally so be sure the pot you choose will accommodate its growth.

How to grow ginger indoors, step by step:

1. To start with, soak the ginger root overnight in warm water to get it ready for planting.

2. Fill your pot with very rich but well draining potting soil.

3. Stick the ginger root with the eye bud pointing up in the soil and cover it with 1-2 inches of soil. Water it well.

4. Place the ginger in a spot that stays reasonably warm and doesn’t get too much bright sunlight.

5. Keep the soil moist, using a spray bottle to mist it, or water it lightly.

6. Ginger is a slow grower, after a few weeks you should see some shoots popping up out of the soil. Continue to water the plant regularly by misting it with a spray bottle and keep it warm

Harvesting ginger:

Small pieces of ginger can be harvested 3-4 months after growth begins. Pull aside some of the soil at the edges of the pot to find some rhizomes beneath the surface. Cut the needed amount off a finger at the edge of the pot and then return the soil.

Ginger can be harvested in this way endlessly, and as long as it is well cared for, it will continue to produce roots. If you need a larger harvest, you can uproot the entire plant and re-plant a few rhizomes to start the process over again. By Meredith Skyer

Crispy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Egg Rolls with Gouda Cheese

Crispy Garlic Chicken and Spinach Egg Rolls with Gouda Cheese, Served with Roasted Red Pepper Salsa for Dipping

Yield: Makes about 20

Ingredients:

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast, minced very finely
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Peanut or canola oil, plus more for frying
• 2 cups fresh, baby spinach leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoons chopped, flat-leaf parsley
• 1 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons water
• 10 egg roll (or “spring roll”) skins, cut in half on the bias to create 20 triangles (*see note below)
• 1 ¼ cup grated gouda cheese
• Roasted Red Pepper Salsa (recipe below)

(*The skins purchased from an Asian market are the best for these, as they are very thin and yield a really crispy result; you can find them in the refrigerated section, and the size is about 8×8, or a large square. But if you don’t have an Asian market nearby, you can typically find skins at your local grocery store in the refrigerated section where they keep the tofu and fresh ramen noodles, etc.)

TIP: These are perfect made the day before, and placed on a parchment-lined baking sheet then wrapped tightly with plastic wrap so they don’t dry out, and kept in the fridge overnight; then, just fry when you’re ready to serve!

Preparation:

-Add your minced chicken to a medium-size bowl, and to it add the 2 garlic cloves and a couple of good pinches of salt and black pepper; toss to coat.

-Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, and drizzle in a little of the oil; once the pan is hot, add in the chicken and saute until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes; using a slotted spoon, scoop the chicken out of the pan, leaving the juices behind, and spoon into a paper towel-lined plate or bowl to cool completely.

-Once the minced chicken has completely cooled, add it to a large bowl; then add in the chopped spinach, parsley, cilantro, parmesan and the pinch of red pepper flakes, plus a tiny drizzle of oil, and mix to combine well; taste to check if any additional salt or pepper is needed.

-Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, and set it nearby.

-Whisk together the cornstarch and the water to create a slurry, as you will use this to seal your egg rolls closed; set aside.

-To roll your egg rolls, take a triangle (half of an egg roll skin) and place it in front of you with the point facing upward.

-Place 2 tablespoons of your chicken filling in the center along the bottom part of your triangle, and shape it into a log shape; sprinkle about a teaspoon or so of the cheese over that.

-Next, fold the bottom left corner toward the center, then the right corner, making what looks like a little envelope; then, roll upwards as tightly as you can, and tuck as you go (try not to leave any air gaps or bubbles,); then dab the top corner with a little cornstarch slurry and seal.

-Place the egg rolls on the parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping them covered with a piece of plastic wrap so they don’t dry out, and repeat until all are rolled.

-Heat about 3 cups of the oil in a small pot or sauce pan, and bring up to 350°; then, carefully add about 3 egg rolls at a time to the hot oil, and fry for about 4 minutes; drain on a wire rack to maintain crispness.

-Serve while hot with chilled Roasted Red Pepper Salsa.

Roasted Red Pepper Salsa Ingredients:

• 1 (14.5 ounce) can organic diced and fire-roasted tomatoes
• ¼ cup roughly chopped roasted red peppers (good quality, from a jar)
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tablespoon parsley
• 1 tablespoon cilantro
• Salt

Preparation:

-Place all ingredients up to and including the cilantro into the bowl of a food processor, and add in a couple of good pinches of salt; process until smooth, then check to see if any additional salt is needed.

-Serve chilled or room temp.

By Ingrid Beer

Suicide Prevention: How to Help Someone Who is Suicidal

A suicidal person may not ask for help, but that doesn’t mean that help isn’t wanted. Most people who commit suicide don’t want to die—they just want to stop hurting. Suicide prevention starts with recognizing the warning signs and taking them seriously. If you think a friend or family member is considering suicide, you might be afraid to bring up the subject. But talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life.
Understanding and preventing suicide
Suicide is a desperate attempt to escape suffering that has become unbearable. Blinded by feelings of self-loathing, hopelessness, and isolation, a suicidal person can’t see any way of finding relief except through death. But despite their desire for the pain to stop, most suicidal people are deeply conflicted about ending their own lives. They wish there was an alternative to committing suicide, but they just can’t see one.

Warning signs of suicide

Most suicidal individuals give warning signs or signals of their intentions. The best way to prevent suicide is to recognize these warning signs and know how to respond if you spot them. If you believe that a friend or family member is suicidal, you can play a role in suicide prevention by pointing out the alternatives, showing that you care, and getting a doctor or psychologist involved.
Major warning signs for suicide include talking about killing or harming oneself, talking or writing a lot about death or dying, and seeking out things that could be used in a suicide attempt, such as weapons and drugs. These signals are even more dangerous if the person has a mood disorder such as depression or bipolar disorder, suffers from alcohol dependence, has previously attempted suicide, or has a family history of suicide.

Suicide prevention tip #1: Speak up if you’re worried
If you spot the warning signs of suicide in someone you care about, you may wonder if it’s a good idea to say anything. What if you’re wrong? What if the person gets angry? In such situations, it’s natural to feel uncomfortable or afraid. But anyone who talks about suicide or shows other warning signs needs immediate help—the sooner the better. see more@

Suicide prevention tip #2: Respond quickly in a crisis
If a friend or family member tells you that he or she is thinking about death or suicide, it’s important to evaluate the immediate danger the person is in. Those at the highest risk for committing suicide in the near future have a specific suicide PLAN, the MEANS to carry out the plan, a TIME SET for doing it, and an INTENTION to do it.

Suicide prevention tip #3: Offer help and support
If a friend or family member is suicidal, the best way to help is by offering an empathetic, listening ear. Let your loved one know that he or she is not alone and that you care. Don’t take responsibility, however, for making your loved one well. You can offer support, but you can’t get better for a suicidal person. He or she has to make a personal commitment to recovery.
It takes a lot of courage to help someone who is suicidal. Witnessing a loved one dealing with thoughts about ending his or her own life can stir up many difficult emotions. As you’re helping a suicidal person, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Find someone that you trust—a friend, family member, clergyman, or counselor—to talk to about your feelings and get support of your own.

5 Healthy Habits for a The Year

If you're like me, you ushered 2015 in with lots of sugar, a few extra pounds and promises to adopt some healthier habits. I'll admit, these healthy habits are dragging me kicking and screaming. I found it so much easier to pop tasty treats in my mouth without worrying about calories or exercise.

Unfortunately, God didn't make me with a metabolism that lets me snack my way through the day or avoid exercise, so here are 5 ways I am making 2015 a healthier year.

1. Devotion

Our biggest battle is often in our mind. Starting our the day in God's Word, prayer, worship and meditation on verses that address the areas we are seeking to adjust will help to reform faulty thought patterns. The truth of the matter is: We can live physically healthy lives, but if our mind and spirit are not healthy, our bodies will still suffer in the long-run. Proverbs talks about this when it says that bitterness dries up the bones (depletes them of calcium).

2. Water

Lets take a moment to reflect on the last time we drank a tall, cool glass of water. Some of us are really having to think. Water is essential to our health. It helps our kidneys function better to flush out toxins from our blood stream, and it helps keep us hydrated so our skin looks younger and healthier. One added side benefit is that it also helps to keep hunger signals at bay. Many times when we think we're hungry we're only really thirsty. You should drink 8-10 8-oz. glasses of water a day. However, if you consume caffeinated beverages, you'll need to drink an extra glass of water for each beverage you drink, because caffeine is a diuretic.

3. Vitamins

Sadly, we do not get the necessary vitamins and minerals our body needs from the foods we eat. Even produce that is picked early lacks the essential nutrients it would otherwise give. All of the processing our foods go through before they reach our digestive systems have depleted them of most nutrients, and the vitamins they enrich them with are not very useful.

Taking daily vitamins helps keep our bodies strong and energy levels high. When choosing a vitamin, the best ones are whole food vitamins, capsules, chewables or alka-seltzer tablets. These types do not have heavy binders that prevent them from being fully digested.

4. Exercise

In the spirit of full disclosure, this is by far the hardest discipline for me. I do not enjoy exercise—I never have. I lead a fairly sedentary lifestyle. But more and more studies are showing the elevated health risks of a sedentary lifestyle, so I am working hard to carve out time in my busy schedule for at least 15 minutes a day of exercise.

It will be easier in the spring because I like to walk in the mornings—the only form of exercise I actually enjoy. We have a nice, steep hill where I live and I enjoy walking and praying. I can't wait for the sun to rise earlier so I can get back to prayer-walking.

5. Fruits and Vegetables

I don't know why it is easier to make an unhealthy meal than it is to grab an apple. I can't explain it. I'd rather make my famous french bread, Gouda cheese and green olive grilled sandwich than just grab something from the fruit bowl (which, by the way, is a full 99% of the time). I'm working at making healthier habits, because the benefits of choosing a fruit or vegetable over a calorie-, carb- and fat-laden meal are obvious.

By the way, did you know that frozen vegetables are sometimes healthier than fresh? Its true. Frozen produce is picked ripe, blanched and flash-frozen to preserve the nutrients. So when you see produce in the produce section that is out of season, you may be better off running to the frozen food isle.

What healthy choices are you making in 2015?

Rosilind Jukic