Are You Chronically Dehydrated?

12 Symptoms of Chronic Dehydration

It is estimated that more than 50% of Americans suffer from dehydration and don't even realize it!!

Following are 12 of the more common symptoms of chronic dehydration:

1. Fatigue. Water is the most important source of energy in the body. Dehydration causes the enzymatic activity in the body to slow down, producing tiredness and fatigue. Thus, one of the earliest signs of chronic dehydration is fatigue.
2. Constipation. The colon is one of the first places the body pulls water when it is short of water in order to provide fluids for other critical functions in the body. Without adequate water, wastes move through the large intestines much more slowly. In fact, sometimes they don’t move at all. Thus, constipation is almost always one of the primary symptoms of chronic dehydration.
3. High blood pressure. The blood is normally about 94 percent water when the body is fully hydrated. When dehydrated, the blood is thicker causing resistance to blood flow, which thus can raise blood pressure.
4. High cholesterol. When the body is dehydrated, it will produce more cholesterol to seal off water loss from the cells. Cholesterol deposits within the cell membrane act to prevent additional cell water loss, ultimately for survival.
5. Acid-alkaline imbalance. The ideal environment for the health of the body is slightly alkaline. Our blood, in fact, is always slightly alkaline, usually ranging between 7.3 and 7.4 pH (7.0 being neutral). Dehydration significantly reduces the ability of the body to eliminate acid wastes.
6. Digestive disorders. The body needs an adequate supply of water to produce a wide array of digestive juices. A shortage of water and alkaline minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, can lead to a host of digestive disorders, including ulcers, gastritis and acid reflux.
7. Asthma and allergies. Another way the body rations water when dehydrated, as a survival mechanism, is by restricting airways. Respiratory problems are key symptoms of chronic dehydration. The rate of histamine produced by the body increases exponentially as the body loses more and more water. According to Water for Health, for Healing, for Life, chronic dehydration "is the primary cause of allergies and asthma in the human body." Drinking plenty of water is the single most important natural remedy for asthma. 
8. Weight gain. When dehydrated, cells are depleted of energy. They then have to rely on energy generation from food rather than water. People thus tend to eat more when, in reality, the body is thirsty. In addition, the body will not metabolize fat unless the body is adequately hydrated to safely remove dangerous toxins that are often stored in fat cells.
9. Skin disorders. The skin is the largest elimination organ in the human body. In a dehydrated body, the first site for water conservation is the skin. Dehydration impairs the elimination of toxins through the skin and makes it more vulnerable to all types of skin disorders, including dermatitis and psoriasis, as well as premature wrinkling and discoloration.
10. Joint pain or stiffness. All joints have cartilage padding, which covers the bone structures in the joint, providing necessary lubrication. The cartilage itself is composed mainly of water. When the body is dehydrated, cartilage is weakened and joint repair is slow. According to Dr. Batmanghelidj, the joints in which the pain is felt depends on where the localized drought has set in.
11. Bladder or kidney problems. As with all of the organs of elimination, when the body is dehydrated, toxins are not eliminated as well. The accumulation of toxins and acid waste create an environment where bacteria thrive. Thus, when dehydrated the bladder and kidney become more prone to infection, inflammation and pain.
12. Premature aging. When the body is chronically dehydrated, the skin begins to wrinkle prematurely. More importantly, what we don’t see is the same wrinkling and withering effect on the internal organs. The most effective and the most inexpensive way (by far!) to slow the aging process is to drink enough water, especially as we get older.

So my question is - what are you going to do about it?

Do you know how much water you should be drinking?

(If you answered 6-8 glasses a day, you are probably wrong)

Do you have an aversion to drinking plain water? 

(I do - but I have tips and secrets to share about how I've overcome it)

Do you know why your body needs so much water?

(Knowing why is half the battle!)

From August 7th - August 13th, I will be hosting a 7 day free group on Facebook where you will learn the answers to these questions and MUCH MORE!

Join us HERE

Interested in other health and fitness related issues? Find me on Facebook, or email me!

There's a new vegan in town!!! (Actually, two!)

Hey - - Big doings in Shakeology-ville, and you are going to want to be in the know on this one!

I'm going to keep it brief though - it's huge news, and I'd love to go on and on about it, but it really only needs a minute of your time and mine, to share!

One of the biggest complaints I hear all the time, is that there are so many regular flavors of Shakeology, but only two in the vegan formula.

Well, all that's about to change!!

Coming this Monday - April 10th - Beachbody is releasing two (yup TWO!!) new vegan flavors:

The long awaited vegan vanilla Shakeology, AND Vegan Cafe Latte!

Both flavors will be available effective Monday, April 10th!

AND

Other big news in Shakeology - there are two new amazing superfood ingredients being added to the already amazing formula!

Chaga Mushrooms
What do those do??? Adaptogenic plants and mushrooms help to bring the body back into balance and have beneficial effects on the nervous system, immune system, the GI tract, the cardiovascular system and the endocrine system. By supporting the body and mind in these ways, adaptogens help us to cope with stress, stay healthy during the cold and flu season, fight cancer, and lift us out of the dark depths of depression and adrenal burnout. They have immune-modulating properties that make them helpful in treating auto-immune diseases and have high levels of anti-oxidants that protect cells from damaging free radicals. Adaptogens gently tone and support the body systems over time and need to be taken for a minimum time of two months to develop the full effect of their healing powers.

and

Matcha tea extract.
Amongst its many health benefits, matcha…
Is packed with antioxidants including the powerful EGCg
Boosts metabolism and burns calories
Detoxifies effectively and naturally
Calms the mind and relaxes the body
Is rich in fiber, chlorophyll and vitamins
Enhances mood and aids in concentration
Provides vitamin C, selenium, chromium, zinc and magnesium
Prevents disease
Lowers cholesterol and blood sugar

Want to try one or both of these amazing new flavors? They'll be available for order on Monday afternoon in the US, and coming soon in Canada. And you can get yours here!

Want more information about Shakeology and what it can do for you? Looking for a complete fitness and nutrition program? Email me or find me on Facebook and let's be sure to chat ASAP!

Loaded Cheesy Cauliflower Crust Pizza

Cauliflower Crust Pizza topped with Eggplant, Red Bell Peppers, Ground Turkey and Low Fat Italian Cheese Blend

OK, I know there are about a billion "Cauliflower Crust" pizza recipes out there on the web - and I've been looking at them and reading them for YEARS! What prompted me to finally try one?

Boredom! A need for something different on my weekly meal plan.

What makes mine different than the rest? Simple: I forgot to read someone else's directions, screwed up, and found out my mistake worked! And was easier than the original directions!

Ingredients:

1 head cauliflower - raw, washed, dried, and "riced" in your food processor

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese or Italian cheese blend, divided

1 egg

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1 cup marinara sauce

1 medium eggplant

1 red bell pepper

1 lb ground turkey

2-4 cloves garlic

garlic powder

1 tsp olive oil

Italian seasonings

Himalayan pink salt

black pepper

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Crush garlic and sautee in olive oil. 

Add in ground turkey, salt and pepper to taste, and brown.

Set aside.

In large bowl combine 2 cups of riced raw cauliflower, one cup of shredded mozz or Italian cheese and egg. The mixture will NOT be wet.

Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper and spread cauliflower mixture into an oval.

Bake at 425 for approx 15 mins or until golden brown.

Top with Marinara and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic to taste.

Thinly slice eggplant and cut red pepper into strips. Layer on top of marinara.

Add leftover riced cauliflower to ground turkey and mix well. 

Layer ground turkey/cauliflower mixture over veggies.

Top with remaining cup of mozz cheese, and Parm. cheese.

Bake 15-20 mins or until cheese melts and turns golden brown.

Enjoy!!

Oh, what was my mistake? I'll never tell ;-)

Want more clean eating recipes? Follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram!

Following the 21 Day Fix meal plan? 8 servings - 1 blue, 1/2 red, 1 green

Interested in starting a clean eating meal plan but don't know where or how to begin? Looking to lose weight and get whole body healthy? Email me for more details about my one on one health and fitness coaching and online private accountability groups!

Core De Force MMA Program Release!!

Pre-Season Starts 11/7
We start KICKING ASS 11/14
Deadline to join 11/6

I am so excited to announce that a brand new Beachbody home fitness program is going to be launched on the 31st of October! Core De Force is a 30 day total body transformation program that will rock your world. The best part about the program is that the only equipment you need is YOU! Core De Force is an MMA inspired program which inludes 3 minute “rounds” where you will get boxing, kickboxing and Muay Thai, knee-elbow combinations, bodyweight training and cardio spikes that will help you lose belly fat and shred your body. If you can focus on hitting it hard for 3 minutes at a time before you know it the workout will be over. I have had the opportunity to do Core De Force as a preview to the release date. This workout gets your heart rate up, it gets you sweating and I couldn’t believe how sore I was the next day. I noticed that it really does focus on your entire core and getting your midsection defined, which of course is a woman’s top area to spot treat right!!! So check out all the details here if you are interested in changing up your workout, breaking a plateau, getting started with your transformation or holding yourself accountable over the holidays. I am going to be hosting a private test group for people who are ready to join me in this 30 day program.

What is Core De Force?

Core De Force is your 30 day countdown to a total body transformation. This workout was created by Joel Freeman and Jericho McMatthews, it is the ultimate mixed martial arts-inspired workout that is going to really knock off the belly fat, get rid of inches and tone and tighten your entire body with no equipment.




I love this workout because in every workout there is a “learn it & work it” section that breaks down the moves so that you can learn them before you do the workout. So if you are new to the MMA style exercises this will give you confidence to go right in and kick some butt. Core De Force is also not on a beat or rhythm so you do not have follow a specific routine per se. There are modifiers in every single workout so no matter what your ability level is, you can go at your own pace. As you get stronger the goal is to challenge yourself with higher intensity and increased focus.

I also like that there is no equipment needed except yourself. This is key for those that are budget conscious, don’t have a lot of room to workout or are traveling and want to workout in a hotel room. Oh, and - you can do these workouts BAREFOOT!!!




Core De Force takes the barriers away to getting started in your health and fitness journey because it is EASY, SIMPLE to follow and all you really have to do is show up and PRESS PLAY on the workout of the day! My goal is to EMPOWER YOU AND GIVE YOU CONFIDENCE TO MAKE THE CHANGES NECESSARY SO THAT YOU CAN LIVE A HEALTHY AND FULFILLING LIFE.

Who is Core De Force For? 

Core De Force is for EVERYONE. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced level in your fitness you can do this workout. You will enjoy the challenge of taking the intensity higher to improve your cardio strength, speed and endurance. Each MMA inspired workout has an optional move breakdown to help you get familiar with the combinations. There is also a “modifier track” so you can follow a split screen if you would like as well.


Core De Force also focuses on rotational moves which means you will work your core from 360 degrees every time you hit play. That is going to be awesome for all of us who really want to tone that trouble area!

What Is the Eating Plan Like? 

The nutrition guide was created to be simple, clean foods, that you can easily measure out and combine to give yourself a well balanced nutrition plan that will fuel your body with the energy it needs to crush the next workout on the schedule and get the results that you want. If you really want to know what this program can do for your body make sure that you are 100% committed to the nutrition plan because what you eat is 80% of the results that you get.


The nutrition plan follows the portion fix, but you will not receive another set of containers unless you want them! Each food category is measured out and explained in detail to you. The plan is meant to be SUPER EASY to follow so that you don’t get overwhelmed with to many options. Plus, in the test group I am hosting I am going to be walking you through the entire nutrition plan as well.

How long are the workouts?

The workouts are 30-45 minutes in length and you workout 6 days a week with a stretch on the 7th. The workout program is 30 days in length.


There are 8 workouts in the program


MMA Speed- ∫ Upper body and core focused boxing influenced workout. (27 minutes)


MMA Shred- Muay Thai inspired elbow and kicks for total body shred. (37 minutes)


MMA Power- Uses explosive and defensive style movements in this fast paced cardio conditioning workout (47 minutes)


MMA Plyo- Core De Force is an MMA style home fitness program that will transform your entire body in 30 days. When you combine boxing, Muay Thai and plyometrics in one workout you get a huge calorie burn and RESULTS. (47 minutes)


Power Sculpt- Total body burner that uses explosive power and interval training to lean and sculpt. (37 minutes)


Dynamic Strength- Low on impact but high on intensity. (47 minutes)


Active Recovery- Recharge for the week ahead with this rest day that focuses on form and technique to help fight fatigue and sore muscles. (21 minutes)


Core De Force Relief- A quick 5 minutes stretch before bed session. (5 minutes)


Team Beachbody Exclusive MMA Mashup– All the best Core De Force moves in one workout. (26 minutes)


Core Kinetics- A unique core workout inspired by Mixed Martial Arts movements.


5 minute Core on the Floor- the ultimate core finisher- 5 minute challenging plank movements that gets your abs on fire.


If you want to take your fitness to the next level after your 3o days you can get these 3 additional advanced workouts too:


Agility Strength- combines fast footwork drills with body weight resistance to help improve coordination and blast major calories. (9 rounds- 37 minutes).


Agility Power- Grab your agility ladder and rip through multifunctional training that ignites every muscle and helps shred fat for serious definition (6 rounds-27 minutes).


MMA Kick Butt- This workout is meant to target your legs and butt with nonstop mix of powerful kicks and calorie burning conditioning spikes (9 rounds- 37 minutes).

When Can I Get This Workout?

Core De Force will be available on the 31st of October to customers of Team Beachbody coaches. So if you do not have a coach right now make sure to sign up with me so that I can be your coach and guide you from start to finish through the program. Here is your link to create your Free Team Beachbody Account.

How Much Does It Cost?

Core De Force has a variety of options. The one that I recommend the most is the Core De Force Challenge Pack because it comes with everything you need to be successful with this program. It comes with the entire Core De Force workout program, nutrition guide, program manual, Shakeology, access to me as your coach, discounted price and shipping plus it gives you entrance into my Test Group where I will be personally walking you through the nutrition guide, helping you to create a food plan that meets your needs, giving you recipes, tips, daily accountability so that this program does not become another dust collector on your shelf.


The Challenge Pack is $140 on Sale starting October 31st through November 2016.

How Can I Get Involved In My Support & Accountability Group?

So now here is the MOST important part. How do I REALLY succeed at this program?? Well, anyone can go out there and buy the Core De Force Challenge Pack and do the workouts. Unfortunately I have seen many of times ( I am also guilty of this) where we purchase a program with the best of intentions and before we know it, the workout is sitting on our shelf collecting dust and we make excuses for why we don’t have time or it isn’t the right timing. So don’t let this be another program that you have good intentions with! It’s time to take charge of your fitness and nutrition and get involved in a closed online community of support that is going to help you start and complete the program and get the RESULTS that you want just in time for the holidays. Better yet, we are going to help you create a holiday plan that is going to give you the flexibility to enjoy the holiday things you want to eat but still get results. Does that sound like a good plan?

Do you want to join??? These are the requirements and how to get started:
In my Test Group I am going to be requiring that each participate for the entire 30 days of the program starting on the 7th of November. Each participant must have ME as their assigned coach. You cannot already be working with another coach or be a coach yourself.
You must commit to both the fitness program and Shakeology to join the group. You will be getting everything you need for this group when you sign up with me.
You must be willing to participate daily in the closed online group. I will have you log your workouts, your daily food activity and provide you with tools, tips and recipes to help you get to your goals. 

You must be willing to give it your all! Change is not always easy but it is totally worth it.


There will never ever be a perfect time to start your fitness and health transformation. You literally just have to take that leap of faith, bite the bullet and go for it. If you do not try, how will you ever know if you can succeed! This just might be that 1 thing where everything comes together and just finally makes sense to you and your lifestyle.


Are you in??? There is limited space in my Test Group so make sure you complete this questionnaire to get your spot!

I want to see you crush those goals and feel confident and empowered to take on the rest of your life!!!!

Core De Force MMA Program Release!!

Pre-Season Starts 11/7
We start KICKING ASS 11/14
Deadline to join 11/6

I am so excited to announce that a brand new Beachbody home fitness program is going to be launched on the 31st of October! Core De Force is a 30 day total body transformation program that will rock your world. The best part about the program is that the only equipment you need is YOU! Core De Force is an MMA inspired program which inludes 3 minute “rounds” where you will get boxing, kickboxing and Muay Thai, knee-elbow combinations, bodyweight training and cardio spikes that will help you lose belly fat and shred your body. If you can focus on hitting it hard for 3 minutes at a time before you know it the workout will be over. I have had the opportunity to do Core De Force as a preview to the release date. This workout gets your heart rate up, it gets you sweating and I couldn’t believe how sore I was the next day. I noticed that it really does focus on your entire core and getting your midsection defined, which of course is a woman’s top area to spot treat right!!! So check out all the details here if you are interested in changing up your workout, breaking a plateau, getting started with your transformation or holding yourself accountable over the holidays. I am going to be hosting a private test group for people who are ready to join me in this 30 day program.

What is Core De Force?

Core De Force is your 30 day countdown to a total body transformation. This workout was created by Joel Freeman and Jericho McMatthews, it is the ultimate mixed martial arts-inspired workout that is going to really knock off the belly fat, get rid of inches and tone and tighten your entire body with no equipment.




I love this workout because in every workout there is a “learn it & work it” section that breaks down the moves so that you can learn them before you do the workout. So if you are new to the MMA style exercises this will give you confidence to go right in and kick some butt. Core De Force is also not on a beat or rhythm so you do not have follow a specific routine per se. There are modifiers in every single workout so no matter what your ability level is, you can go at your own pace. As you get stronger the goal is to challenge yourself with higher intensity and increased focus.

I also like that there is no equipment needed except yourself. This is key for those that are budget conscious, don’t have a lot of room to workout or are traveling and want to workout in a hotel room. Oh, and - you can do these workouts BAREFOOT!!!




Core De Force takes the barriers away to getting started in your health and fitness journey because it is EASY, SIMPLE to follow and all you really have to do is show up and PRESS PLAY on the workout of the day! My goal is to EMPOWER YOU AND GIVE YOU CONFIDENCE TO MAKE THE CHANGES NECESSARY SO THAT YOU CAN LIVE A HEALTHY AND FULFILLING LIFE.

Who is Core De Force For? 

Core De Force is for EVERYONE. Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced level in your fitness you can do this workout. You will enjoy the challenge of taking the intensity higher to improve your cardio strength, speed and endurance. Each MMA inspired workout has an optional move breakdown to help you get familiar with the combinations. There is also a “modifier track” so you can follow a split screen if you would like as well.


Core De Force also focuses on rotational moves which means you will work your core from 360 degrees every time you hit play. That is going to be awesome for all of us who really want to tone that trouble area!

What Is the Eating Plan Like? 

The nutrition guide was created to be simple, clean foods, that you can easily measure out and combine to give yourself a well balanced nutrition plan that will fuel your body with the energy it needs to crush the next workout on the schedule and get the results that you want. If you really want to know what this program can do for your body make sure that you are 100% committed to the nutrition plan because what you eat is 80% of the results that you get.


The nutrition plan follows the portion fix, but you will not receive another set of containers unless you want them! Each food category is measured out and explained in detail to you. The plan is meant to be SUPER EASY to follow so that you don’t get overwhelmed with to many options. Plus, in the test group I am hosting I am going to be walking you through the entire nutrition plan as well.

How long are the workouts?

The workouts are 30-45 minutes in length and you workout 6 days a week with a stretch on the 7th. The workout program is 30 days in length.


There are 8 workouts in the program


MMA Speed- ∫ Upper body and core focused boxing influenced workout. (27 minutes)


MMA Shred- Muay Thai inspired elbow and kicks for total body shred. (37 minutes)


MMA Power- Uses explosive and defensive style movements in this fast paced cardio conditioning workout (47 minutes)


MMA Plyo- Core De Force is an MMA style home fitness program that will transform your entire body in 30 days. When you combine boxing, Muay Thai and plyometrics in one workout you get a huge calorie burn and RESULTS. (47 minutes)


Power Sculpt- Total body burner that uses explosive power and interval training to lean and sculpt. (37 minutes)


Dynamic Strength- Low on impact but high on intensity. (47 minutes)


Active Recovery- Recharge for the week ahead with this rest day that focuses on form and technique to help fight fatigue and sore muscles. (21 minutes)


Core De Force Relief- A quick 5 minutes stretch before bed session. (5 minutes)


Team Beachbody Exclusive MMA Mashup– All the best Core De Force moves in one workout. (26 minutes)


Core Kinetics- A unique core workout inspired by Mixed Martial Arts movements.


5 minute Core on the Floor- the ultimate core finisher- 5 minute challenging plank movements that gets your abs on fire.


If you want to take your fitness to the next level after your 3o days you can get these 3 additional advanced workouts too:


Agility Strength- combines fast footwork drills with body weight resistance to help improve coordination and blast major calories. (9 rounds- 37 minutes).


Agility Power- Grab your agility ladder and rip through multifunctional training that ignites every muscle and helps shred fat for serious definition (6 rounds-27 minutes).


MMA Kick Butt- This workout is meant to target your legs and butt with nonstop mix of powerful kicks and calorie burning conditioning spikes (9 rounds- 37 minutes).

When Can I Get This Workout?

Core De Force will be available on the 31st of October to customers of Team Beachbody coaches. So if you do not have a coach right now make sure to sign up with me so that I can be your coach and guide you from start to finish through the program. Here is your link to create your Free Team Beachbody Account.

How Much Does It Cost?

Core De Force has a variety of options. The one that I recommend the most is the Core De Force Challenge Pack because it comes with everything you need to be successful with this program. It comes with the entire Core De Force workout program, nutrition guide, program manual, Shakeology, access to me as your coach, discounted price and shipping plus it gives you entrance into my Test Group where I will be personally walking you through the nutrition guide, helping you to create a food plan that meets your needs, giving you recipes, tips, daily accountability so that this program does not become another dust collector on your shelf.


The Challenge Pack is $140 on Sale starting October 31st through November 2016.

How Can I Get Involved In My Support & Accountability Group?

So now here is the MOST important part. How do I REALLY succeed at this program?? Well, anyone can go out there and buy the Core De Force Challenge Pack and do the workouts. Unfortunately I have seen many of times ( I am also guilty of this) where we purchase a program with the best of intentions and before we know it, the workout is sitting on our shelf collecting dust and we make excuses for why we don’t have time or it isn’t the right timing. So don’t let this be another program that you have good intentions with! It’s time to take charge of your fitness and nutrition and get involved in a closed online community of support that is going to help you start and complete the program and get the RESULTS that you want just in time for the holidays. Better yet, we are going to help you create a holiday plan that is going to give you the flexibility to enjoy the holiday things you want to eat but still get results. Does that sound like a good plan?

Do you want to join??? These are the requirements and how to get started:
In my Test Group I am going to be requiring that each participate for the entire 30 days of the program starting on the 7th of November. Each participant must have ME as their assigned coach. You cannot already be working with another coach or be a coach yourself.
You must commit to both the fitness program and Shakeology to join the group. You will be getting everything you need for this group when you sign up with me.
You must be willing to participate daily in the closed online group. I will have you log your workouts, your daily food activity and provide you with tools, tips and recipes to help you get to your goals. 

You must be willing to give it your all! Change is not always easy but it is totally worth it.


There will never ever be a perfect time to start your fitness and health transformation. You literally just have to take that leap of faith, bite the bullet and go for it. If you do not try, how will you ever know if you can succeed! This just might be that 1 thing where everything comes together and just finally makes sense to you and your lifestyle.


Are you in??? There is limited space in my Test Group so make sure you complete this questionnaire to get your spot!

I want to see you crush those goals and feel confident and empowered to take on the rest of your life!!!!

The Health Benefits in your Coffee Cup

How many of you have cut down on coffee because you thought it might be bad for you? How many have eliminated it completely? How many people think they drink too much of it, and wish they could cut down? Worry no more, my friends - your morning (or afternoon - or both) mug of steamy brown goodness - is actually pretty good for you! Think I'm kidding? NOPE! Keep reading!

Before we really get into the beans and grinds of it (I was gonna say meat and potatoes but since we're talking coffee, beans and grinds sounded better), I want to clarify - I'm not talking about your mocha choka latte double frapuccino with a squirt or two of that salted caramel flavoring, topped with a mound of whipped cream; I'm talking, most specifically, about black, unaltered, organic, pure arabica coffee. Light roast, dark roast, espresso, Jamaican Peaberry, Hawaiian Kona, French Roast, Breakfast Blend, Sumatra - as long as we're not muddying up the waters with a bunch of goop, it all counts. How you dress it up (or if you dress it up), is up to you, but just remember - while those squirts don't detract from your daily dose of Joe, they aren't benefiting (and may be harming) your health.

Caffeine blocks an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, which leads to a stimulant effect. This improves energy levels, mood and various aspects of brain function. Many controlled trials in humans show that coffee improves various aspects of brain function. This includes memory, mood, vigilance, energy levels, reaction times and general cognitive function.

Several studies show that caffeine can increase fat burning in the body and boost the metabolic rate. Studies show that caffeine can specifically increase the burning of fat, by as much as 10% in obese individuals and 29% in lean people!

Caffeine can increase adrenaline levels and release fatty acids from the fat tissues. It also leads to significant improvements in physical performance.

Coffee contains several important nutrients, including Riboflavin, Pantothenic Acid, Manganese, Potassium, Magnesium and Niacin.

A single cup of coffee contains:

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 11% of the RDA.

Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5): 6% of the RDA.

Manganese and Potassium: 3% of the RDA.

Magnesium and Niacin (B3): 2% of the RDA.

Although this may not seem like a big deal, most people are drinking more than one cup per day. If you drink 3-4, then these amounts quickly add up.

Several observational studies show that coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of getting type II diabetes. The studies show that people who drink the most coffee have a 23-50% lower risk of getting this disease, one study showing a reduction as high as 67%!

Coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s.

However, there are several things you can do to prevent the disease from showing up in the first place. This includes the usual suspects like eating healthy and exercising, but drinking coffee may be incredibly effective as well.

Several studies show that coffee drinkers have up to a 65% lower risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease.

Coffee drinkers have up to a 60% lower risk of getting Parkinson’s disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, right after Alzheimer’s.It is caused by death of dopamine-generating neurons in the brain.

As with Alzheimer’s, there is no known cure, which makes it that much more important to focus on prevention.

In studies, coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, with a reduction in risk ranging from 32-60%.

It appears to be the caffeine itself that is causing the effect. People who drink decaf don’t have a lower risk of Parkinson’s.

Coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of developing cirrhosis, which can be caused by several diseases that affect the liver. People who drink 4 or more cups per day have up to an 80% lower risk!

Coffee appears to lower the risk of developing depression and may dramatically reduce the risk of suicide. In a Harvard study published in 2011, women who drank 4 or more cups per day had a 20% lower risk of becoming depressed. Another study with 208,424 individuals found that those who drank 4 or more cups per day were 53% less likely to commit suicide.

Coffee Drinkers Have a Lower Risk of Some Types of Cancer. Liver and colorectal cancer are the 3rd and 4th leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Coffee drinkers have a lower risk of both. Studies show that coffee drinkers have up to a 40% lower risk of liver cancer. One study of 489,706 individuals found that those who drank 4-5 cups of coffee per day had a 15% lower risk of colorectal cancer.

It's looking like 4 cups a day is that magic number. And on that note, time for a refill!

There is some evidence that women who drink coffee have a reduced risk of heart disease. Some studies also show that coffee drinkers have a 20% lower risk of stroke.

Given that coffee drinkers are less likely to get many diseases, it makes sense that coffee could help you live longer.

There are actually several observational studies showing that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of death. In two very large studies, drinking coffee was associated with a 20% lower risk of death in men and a 26% lower risk of death in women, over a period of 18-24 years.

Coffee is The Biggest Source of Antioxidants in The Western Diet! For people who eat a standard Western diet, coffee may actually be the healthiest aspect of the diet. That’s because coffee contains a massive amount of antioxidants. In fact, studies show that most people get more antioxidants from coffee than both fruits and vegetables… combined!

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My Favorite Flavorful Seasonings and their Healthy Benefits

Over the past year, my passion for cooking and preparing (and eating) healthy food has literally exploded. And with that explosion, I've also become a bit of a connoisseur of seasonings - especially the ones that make my already healthy dishes not just taste great, but even healthier!

Some seasonings are just for flavor, but most of them have some added healing or health related benefit. Today I'm going to talk about my four favorites - and they're favorites, not just because they taste amazing, but also because of what they do for my body.

First on the list, today, is actually my latest "daily addiction" - Ginger. I've been using ginger in my refrigerator oats, but since I only eat carbs like that once in a great while, I started looking for another way to incorporate it into my daily regimen. At first it was an experiment, but it's become an addiction - I LOVE GINGER in my Cafe Latte Shakeology! It adds a little zing, and a lot of benefits.

So what's so good for you about ginger? What's not!!

• Ginger reduces pain and inflammation, making it valuable in managing arthritis, headaches, and menstrual cramps. (yup, I'm sold already!)
  
  But - in case you need more than just that...
• It has a warming effect and stimulates circulation.It inhibits rhinovirus, which can cause the common cold.
• It inhibits such bacteria as Salmonella, which cause diarrhea, and protozoa, such as Trichomonas.
• In the intestinal tract, it reduces gas and painful spasms.
• It may prevent stomach ulcers caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
• Ginger may drastically lower blood sugars and improve heart disease risk factors.
• Ginger may lower cholesterol levels
• Ginger contains a substance that may help prevent cancer.
• Ginger may improve brain function and protect against Alzheimer's disease.

Obviously, fresh grated ginger is going to be more effective than ground ginger in a jar, but - - even that can help to some degree.

Number two on my list today, is actually my number one favorite health seasoning. I am madly in love with Turmeric (which happens to be a member of the ginger family). Yup, another weird looking root. So besides turning things yellow, why Turmeric? It started with the anti-inflammatory benefits. I have arthritis in my feet and I have been looking for ways to make walking less uncomfortable, without taking all sorts of drugs, or having surgery. So along with eliminating certain foods from my diet (want to know what? email me!), I also started adding turmeric - especially to foods like sweet potatoes, chicken, and eggs.

• Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant.
• Turmeric dramatically increases the antioxidant capacity of the body.
• Curcumin, that main active ingredient we talked about above, boosts brain function and lowers the risk of brain diseases.
• Curcumin leads to various improvements that should lower your risk of heart disease
• Turmeric can help prevent (and perhaps even treat) cancer!
• Curcumin may be useful in preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease.
• Arthritis patients respond very well to curcumin supplementation
• Studies show that curcumin has incredible benefits against depression

It's pretty difficult to get enough curcumin out of just the turmeric you're seasoning your food with, so I take a capsule every day to make sure I'm receiving all the healthy benefits it provides. If you're looking for a great source for healthy supplements, and other natural products, at a discount, click here for a free one month membership to my favorite place to shop for things like curcumin, coconut oil, maca root, tigernuts, cacao nibs and more.

Third on the list, Cayenne Pepper, contains capsaicin, the substance that gives cayenne its spicy taste, but it's also the active ingredient in many over the counter treatments for arthritis and muscle pain.

You can use ground cayenne pepper mixed with olive oil, topically (unbroken skin ONLY), at the site of painful joints, several times a day to, over time, alleviate the pain. At first it will cause a mild burning sensation, but after a week or so, you will become desensitized to that, while the pain relieving benefits will continue on.

As a seasoning on your food (ingested), cayenne pepper has other great benefits as well.

• Boosts metabolism and reduces appetite!!!!!! (shout out to all the dieters). Just a half teaspoon along with a meal can help suppress appetite and burn calories. Besides, it tastes great on so many things.
• Capsaicin is a powerful decongestant. It stimulates the release of mucus from respiratory passages and opens up your airways - so it's a great way to unclog a stuffy nose.
• Cayenne pepper can reduce blood sugar levels. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people with diabetes who ate a meal containing liberal amounts of chile pepper required less insulin to reduce their blood sugar afterward, suggesting the spice could have anti-diabetes benefits.
• Cayenne pepper boosts circulation and lowers blood pressure. Because cayenne improves blood flow, it is also helpful in conjunction with other medications or supplements if you have circulation issues. Research in the U.S. National Library of Medicine also shows that capsaicin helps lower blood pressure.

Black pepper - last on my list today - is probably the most common, and most versatile of my favorite seasonings with healthy benefits. So what can it do for you?

• Black pepper increases nutrient absorption. The piperine in black pepper enhances the bioavailability of various nutrients - and specifically, increases the bioavailability of curcumin (see turmeric, above) twenetyfold!
• Black pepper improves digestion. It stimulates the taste buds and increases the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which aids digestion.
• Black pepper can help you lose weight. The outer layer of the peppercorns contain phytonutrients that encourage the breakdown of fat cells, and suppress fat accumulation in the body. And since it improves digestion, it can help you burn calories. Black pepper is also a diuretic, so it can help flush toxins and excess water from the body.
• Black pepper relieves stomach gas and also helps prevent gas formation.
• Black pepper can help clear congestion as it helps loosen phlegm. It also has antimicrobial properties.
• The piperine in Black pepper can help treat arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. It also improves circulation which can help with reducing joint pain as well.
• Black pepper can fight cancer and prevent other diseases, through its antioxidant qualities - specifically colon and breast cancer. It also protects against high blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• Piperine in black pepper, increases seratonin production, which helps regulate the mood and can act as an antidepressant. It also increases beta-endorphins in the brain, and promotes mental clarity.

So, there you have it - my four favorite spices and the reasons why I love them. It's kind of like Frank's Red Hot Sauce - I put that sh!t on everything!

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