Vegan pesto panini

Vegan (with vegan cheese and vegan pesto)
Gluten-free (with gf bread)
Makes about 4 paninis (reduce if desired)

Ingredients
3 bell peppers (I use 2 red, 1 orange)
1 onion
8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
Asparagus
Shredded mozzarella
Feta
Pesto (try homemade!)
Italian bread (2 slices per sandwich)
Olive oil
Kosher salt

Directions
Preheat oven to 425.
Cut pepper and onion into strips, and asparagus in half.
On a baking sheet, toss veggies with olive oil and kosher salt.
Roast for about 25-30 minutes.
On a skillet over medium heat, place a slice of bread. Sprinkle mozzarella and feta.
Add a generous layer of vegetables. Spread pesto on a second slice of bread and place on top, lightly pressing down.
Heat about 5-8 minutes on each side or until warmed through and cheese is melted.

Chinese Biological Clock: Discover Which One of Your Organs Doesn’t Work As It Should!

A doctor of Chinese medicine will ask his/her patient firstly in which time of day his/her body disorders appear.

According to that, the doctor will know which part of the body has a health problem. 

The Chinese biological clock shows intervals by which energy circulates through parts of our body and every two hours in one day, it is the strongest in a certain part. Then, the functions in that part of the body are the best and if there is a problem, the symptoms will be the most expressed in that period.

A doctor of Chinese medicine will ask his/her patient firstly in which time of day his/her body disorders appear.

According to that, the doctor will know which part of the body has a health problem e.g. if the energy circulates with difficulties or there is too much energy, which also isn’t very good.

It’s not bad to follow your biological clock and write down in which part of the day the difficulties appear, for example fatigue, pain etc. Also, it’s good to write down the time in which the energy is at its highest level and when a person wakes up during the night and it points to a problem with a certain part of the body.

 

Time of maximum functions (12 hours after that, the function is the smallest):

 

5 to 7 o’clock – colon

7 to 9 o’clock – stomach

11 to 13 o’clock – heart

13 to 15 o’clock – small intestine

15 to 17 o’clock – urinary bladder sati

17 to 19 o’clock – kidneys

19 to 21 o’clock – heart covering

21 to 23 o’clock – triple heater (thermoregulation)

23 to 1 o’clock – gall bladder

1 to 3 o’clock – liver

3 to 5 o’clock – lungs

When one of the organs is at its top of the energy and the one on the opposite side of the biological clock (with 12 hours of difference) is at its lowest energetic level.

For example, our liver reaches its top between 1 and 3 o’clock and the small intestine is at its lowest energetic level. That’s why if we eat late at night food doesn’t absorb well in the small intestine.

So, we should avoid some of the activities in the time when the energy of a particular organ included in that activity is the lowest.

Copyright © 2015. Be Extra Healthy Now

9 Herbs to Treat Many Thyroid Conditions Naturally and Effectively

The thyroid gland has many essential functions in our body and that is why we have to keep it safe and healthy.

Many people are suffering from underactive or overactive thyroid conditions. It means that their thyroid gland is not functioning properly and has an effect on the entire system.

In order the thyroid gland works properly, there are certain things that you can do every day.

Improve the thyroid condition and its function with herbs

Here is the list of few herbs that can help you with the thyroid gland. Certain body functions are regulated with the thyroid gland, including:

– Strengthening and healing bones

– Stabilize cardiac and muscle activity

– Cellular protein synthesis

– Producing vitamin A through conversion of beta-carotene

– Transportation of electrolytes

– Regulation of mental processes

Many herbs can be used for this condition. It can be consumed orally in the form of tea or pills. The intake of the proper dose is important in order to get the desired effects.

1. Flaxseed

Many researches have proved the positive effects of flaxseed on digestive health. But the flaxseed can also help with the thyroid.

If you are suffering from underactive thyroid, taking this herb on a daily basis will help you increase thyroid hormone. You will notice the difference if only taking a tablespoon a day. Moreover, you can use it mixed with some liquid or added in your food.

2. Bladderwrack

It can help you if dealing with underactive thyroid. Bladderwrack is rich in iodine, which is vital for the health of thyroid gland. It can replace iodine and improve the underactive thyroid function.

3. Ginger

Since ancient times, ginger has been used as a cure for upset stomach, nausea and vomiting, but not many people know it is also good for the thyroid health as well. It includes potassium, zinc and magnesium.

The thyroid needs these nutrients so it keeps its health.

 

Use fresh ginger and feel the benefits. You can prepare a ginger tea or just eat the herb fresh. Adding some raw honey in the ginger tea will enrich its taste and effects.

4. Echinacea

This herb is most commonly used for improving the immune system, but it is also good for the thyroid health. It helps people with overactive thyroid, and the best way to feel the benefits it using the herb with its root. It can be used to make a tea.

5. Nettle

Nettle is great for both overactive and underactive thyroid sufferers. It is also known as a thyroid tonic because is iodine rich and can fight the lack of this substance. You can drink the herb in the form of tea.

6. Licorice

This herb can help you if dealing with underactive thyroid gland. It can help proper thyroid hormone regulation and boosts the overall energy levels. Licorice has glycyrrhetinic acid, which inhibits the growth of various forms of thyroid cancer cells.

7. Evening Primrose Oil

The herb is most often used by women because it improves women’s health, but it can help people with thyroid problems too. It is most helpful for people with underactive thyroid and helps with dealing the symptoms and sighs of this condition, such as hair loss and heavy menstrual bleeding.

Drinking evening primrose as a tea will help you feel its positive effects.

8. Ashwagandha

Besides helping people with thyroid problems, this exotic herb can help the entire system. It can improve the immune system, but also it is perfect for people who feel under stress. The herb includes powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Also, you can use it in combination with bladderwrack.

9. Siberian ginseng

Siberian ginseng can be found in stores for natural food. It advances the condition in patients that suffer from underactive thyroid. Fatigue is often related to this health problem and it can be removed with this herb. It is a natural energy booster. Between 100 and 200 mg twice a day is the ideal dose for thyroid sufferers. Use the herb before breakfast and before lunch.

You may deal with many different health issues in case your thyroid gland is not working properly. We have listed so many herbs you can choose and create a list of those herbs you find interesting.

Then, consult your physician about your chosen herbs, so he will help you select the best for you.

Source : http://www.myilifestyle.com/author/ivahr1yahoo-com/

3 Ingredients That Cure Clogged Arteries, Fat In The Blood And Infections (Old German Recipe)

If you are looking for something which will treat many issues that your body experiences, such as an infection, a cold or even cardiovascular disease, and you’d like to keep yourself healthy at the same time, you should make yourself a combination of these 3 amazing ingredients included in our drink recipe, which will solve all your problems.

It is important to keep in mind that while combining some super foods together you enjoy the extra benefits that the combination provides you, compared to ingesting them alone.

Our recipe is an old German recipe which will improve your overall health and it requires only 3 simple ingredients from your kitchen: garlic, lemon and ginger. Here is some information of how powerful these foods are: Garlic– It is one of the major antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial foods and maybe also one of the world’s healthiest foods. It is the compound allicin in garlic which makes garlic so beneficial. Garlic also contains: manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, selenium and fiber. Ginger- The major antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that ginger contains are the following: gingerols, beta-carotene, capsaicin, caffeic acid, curcumin and salicylate. Therefore it is noted that it helps with digestive issues, pain, inflammation and nausea.

Lemon- We all know that whenever we need a high amount of vitamin C, the perfect supplier is lemon. It alkalizes our body, boosts our immune system, balances our pH and protects our body from disease. 

Dosage of the ingredients to prepare the recipe:

2 liters/ 67.6 oz of filtered water

4 unpeeled lemons

4 large garlic bulbs

4 cm/1.5 inches long ginger root

Preparation:

First, wash the lemons and cut them into slices. After that, clean the garlic cloves and peel the ginger root.

Put all the ingredients together in a blender and mix until you get a homogenous content.

Put the content in a pot on a heated hot plate, and add the water. Stir it constantly until it boils and let it cool off afterwards.

Use a strainer and keep the liquid that you’ll get, in glass bottles.

Keep the drink refrigerated.

Directions:

You should drink a glass of the remedy every morning on an empty stomach before you drink or eat anything. You can also drink it 2 hours before you go to sleep, also on an empty stomach.

If you feel averse to the garlic and its smell, be sure that you will not even get the taste of it, because of the cooking process and also because of the strong taste that the lemon and ginger give.

Before you drink, shake the bottle to mix all the ingredients, because the ginger may stay on the bottom of the bottle and by shaking it before drinking you’ll get the most of our recipe. Enjoy!

Source:/http://www.healthfoodsolution.com/

FAKE Olive Oil is Literally Everywhere! How To Know Whether It Is Fake Or Original Olive Oil?

What are the health benefits of olive oil?

Olive oil is a part of the Mediterranean diet, and it has been used thousand years ago by Hippocrates, the father of medicine, thanks to its many health benefits. Monosaturated fatty acids are an important substance which offers great benefits to the heart and to various other parts of the body when eaten on daily basis.

A research verified that having regular Mediterranean diet plan rich in olive oil minimizes the risk of establishing type 2 diabetes issues compared to having other low fat diet regimens. Olive oil is also good for bone health and wellness, weight-loss and brain health. It also soothes irregular bowel movements and minimizes oxidative anxiety.

What is good about its composition?

Olive oil is rich in mono saturated fatty acids which give less fatty tissue load to the body. It is also abundant in phenolics, the acidic constituent which provides the oil its acidic and bitter taste. It has ZERO CARBOHYDRATES as well as ZERO PROTEIN with just traces of hydrogenated fat in it. It likewise has vitamin E and vitamin K which are good for the skin. The phenolic acids are very good for the heart too.

What is extra virgin olive oil? Is there anything really extra virgin about it?

The term ‘virgin olive oil’ does not explain its quality, and virgin olive oil doesn’t mean it is added pure. The distinction is in the process of manufacturing. There are 4 grades of virgin olive oil. The lowest quality of virgin olive oil is used in soap making, and is not fit for consumption. The additional virgin olive oil has the highest grade of olive oil which is cold pressed, and is superior in taste and fragrance. This is not warmed for more than 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

A bunch of fake oil is being sold on the market, especially when it comes to extra virgin olive oil. The University of California carried out tests amongst many brand names in the United States that have a tag of extra virgin olive oil to them. The study came up with this devastating fact: 69 % of extra virgin olive oil offered in the United States markets is FAKE!!!

Next time you see the tag ‘extra virgin olive oil’, you should be very careful!

So, exactly how do you know if it is a fake olive oil or original olive oil when you are buying it? The tastes of the fake and original oil are comparable, so you will need to find another way to differentiate between the original and fake olive oil.

What is FAKE olive oil and how prevalent is its circulation?

Fake olive oil can be just a combination of two oils, a topmost part of sunflower oil included in a portion of pure olive oil, as well as can be identified as extra virgin olive oil. It can be a substandard, a mixture of numerous olive oils from different countries. It can be non-Italian oil, just a combination of soybean oil and also sunflower oil with the additives of chlorophyll, and also beta carotene, identified lastly as extra virgin olive oil. Beware when you see the tags of extra pure and extra virgin.

The circulation of fake olive oil is so usual that you discover numerous famous brands advertizing themselves to provide THE HEALTHIEST OLIVE OIL, but actually it is a FAKE one. A research stated that lots of renowned brands consisting of Bertolli, Filippo Berio, Mazzola, Mezzetta, Newman’s own, Star, Safe way, Colavita, and also Whole meals are selling fake olive oil.

How to know if it is a FAKE olive oil? What are the tests to help you differentiate fake olive oil from original olive oil?

Yes, after all this conversation, we have pertained to the most important question: How to tell if it is a FAKE olive oil? Is it worth taking it if it isn’t original? For the first concern we’ll try to help you with some tips. When it comes to the 2nd, comprise your thoughts on your own!

An easy examination that can be done at home is to cool the extra virgin olive oil. When it strengthens, it implies it has more mono saturated fats in it, however this still does not eliminate the presence of other oils like safflower oil or canola oil or any other adulterations in it. On the other hand, if it does not strengthen, then it implies it is not extra virgin olive oil at all!

Extra virgin olive oil is expected to keep the oil lamp flammable. Again, it is not a really precise examination. If the oil doesn’t light the oil lamp for a long time, it certainly is not extra virgin olive oil.

Taste, refrigerator test or lamp test are not extremely dependable methods to find out the truth concerning your olive oil. The very best option is to purchase olive oil from neighborhood farmers. You ought to understand that the olive oil from Italy is considered standard compared to the olive oil from other countries.

The brand names that fell short to fulfill the extra virgin olive oil standards are: Pompeian, Whole Foods, Bertolli, Colavita, Carapelli, Star. Eat Local Grown likewise states: Filippo Berio, Mazzola, Mezzetta, Newman’s Own, Safeway, and Whole foods in this listing; the information could be from the earlier 2010 research study when a lot more brands were examined.

The real deal: Lucini, Lucero (Ascolano), California Olive Ranch, Kirkland Organic, McEvoy Ranch Organic, Cobram Estate are additionally noted by Eat Local Grown

Look for Certification

Your best assurance that you are really purchasing a first class olive oil is to try to find 3rd party qualification. The California Olive Oil Council as well as the Australian Olive Association both have stringent accreditation programs that make their seals trustworthy.

When acquiring olive oil made or packaged in Italy, search for PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) or PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) seals.

Finally, the ‘TAKE HOME’ message we give you is to be very careful and picky the next time you are buying olive oil, specifically the extra virgin one!

Sourcet: www.dietoflife.com

5-Ingredients zucchini fritters

5-INGREDIENT ZUCCHINI FRITTERS

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups shredded zucchini

2/3 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1/3 cup sliced scallions (green and white parts)

Vegetable oil

Sour cream, for serving (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Place the shredded zucchini in a colander set over a bowl and sprinkle the zucchini lightly with salt. Allow the zucchini to stand for 10 minutes. Using your hands, squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible. Transfer the zucchini to a large bowl.

Add the flour, eggs, sliced scallions, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper to the bowl, stirring until the mixture is combined. Line a plate with paper towels.

Liberally coat the bottom of a large sauté pan with vegetable oil and place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, scoop 3-tablespoon mounds of the zucchini mixture into the pan, pressing them lightly into rounds and spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Cook the zucchini fritters for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip them once and cook an additional 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked throughout. Transfer the zucchini fritters to the paper towel-lined plate and immediately sprinkle them with salt. Repeat the scooping and cooking process with the remaining zucchini mixture.

Serve the zucchini fritters topped with sour cream (optional) 

This delicious recipe brought to you by Just a Taste 

http://www.justataste.com/5-ingredient-zucchini-fritters-recipe/

7 Signs You Should Be Taking Probiotics

Have you taken an antibiotic over the past year?

Well, if you are like most people these days, you have.

Did you know that antibiotics completely destroy your healthy gut bacteria?

Even if you took one 7 years ago – if you have not replenished the good guys within your gut, chances are really high that you are struggling with imbalance, maybe unknowingly.

But antibiotics are not the only thing hindering your health.

Do you struggle with:

Irregular mood

Skin issues

Erratic sleep patterns

Crazy cravings for sugar and other unhealthy food

Bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea or cramping after meals

Healthy weight management

If you answered yes to any of these, you should know that these are just some of the symptoms of an imbalanced gut.

You’ve heard me say it before, but it’s important that you realize the impact your gut health has on every single part of your body – physical and mental.

Remember, 70-80% of your immune system is in your gut.

And 95% of your serotonin is made in your gut – that’s your “happy” hormone.

Just these 2 factors alone are enough to show that when your gut is out of whack, so are you… on some level anyway.

You’ve likely heard the term PROBIOTICS thrown around and maybe you already use them, which is great!

But maybe you’re like many others still confused about WHY they matter when it comes to your health.

I want to make that really clear for you.

Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria within our gut.

They are the guys that:

Keep harmful bacteria and microorganisms in check

Aid in digestion and nutrient absorption

Make sure your body receives the vitamins, minerals, fats and amino acids from the foods that you are consuming – totally necessary!

Are needed for the generation of certain B vitamins, vitamin K, folate, and some short-chain fatty acids

Contribute to proper immune function

They crowd out bad bacteria, preventing the bacteria’s ability to host in the body, which inhibits infection, inflammation and disease.

Proven by researchers at UCLA, the correction of healthy bacteria in the gut can optimize neurotransmitter function, leading to improved mental health and may even improve learning and sharpen focus and memory.

So yea, they are kind of  big deal.

Probiotics are abundant in fermented foods, but most often their probiotic concentration is not enough to be used therapeutically when the gut flora has been drastically depleted.

Therefore, use fermented probiotic-rich foods as an ongoing part of the diet to keep your levels up as a form of prevention. Then choose a high-quality probiotic, as a form of nutrition therapy.

So how do you know if you’re deficient?

Well, according to the research I have done on the subject, most of us are!

We live in a toxic environment, my friend.

There are chemicals and pesticides in:

our food

in the air we breathe

the water we drink

Despite our best efforts, toxin exposure is inevitable in our modern society.

But we can help minimize the effects and I have a solution to do just that.

But first, here are 7 signs that YOU need to MORE probiotics in your life…

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotic literally means “anti-life” –  that’s pretty powerful.

They are designed to kill and they don’t discriminate between the good and bad bacteria, unfortunately.

TIP: Double dose your probiotics for the length of time you were on an antibiotic post-treatment to ensure you are repopulating the good guys! (example: if you were on an antibiotic for 14 days, double dose for 14 days afterwards to help repopulate and get your system back on track.)

2. Food Poisoning

Bad bacteria is lurking in your gut when this happens and it’s important to fight the bad guys.

Probiotics help replenish the good guys and get your digestion moving as it should.

TIP: Taking probiotics regularly gives the body a better defense against any foreign invaders you may come into contact with.

3. Digestive Disturbances

 

Be sure you are consuming a healthy diet first.

Eliminate hard-to-digest foods such as processed, packaged and fried foods, dairy, gluten, sugar and soy and aim to eat more REAL foods as nature intended.

Probiotics will further support your efforts to bring balance to your gut.

TIP: Ginger is great if you are experiencing any type of digestive distress. I love using extra ginger is most of my green juices, but it’s also great as a tea or as a delicious addition to your meals.

4. Skin Conditions

Our external environment is a direct reflection of our internal environment. That includes rashes, acne, rosacea, eczema, etc.

If your skin does not clear from diet and probiotics alone, you may consider using digestive aids such as apple cider vinegar to promote stomach acid production and enzymes.

Other agents to heal the intestinal lining include l-glutamine and aloe vera.

TIP: Be sure to have your hormones checked too to rule out any imbalances so often associated with acne.

5. Mood Disorders

The health of our gut is so closely tied to the health of our brain.

That’s why improving the integrity of your gut has such an effect on the function of your neurotransmitters.

TIP: Further supporting your body with B vitamins and paying attention to the health of your kidneys are also key factors to a balanced mood.

6. Weak Immunity

Healthy bacteria can train your immune system to distinguish between “foreign” microbes and those originating in your body, making probiotics the best front line against infection.

When your gut is balanced, your risk for illness diminishes significantly.

TIP: Focus on supporting your entire body with healthy foods, daily movement, positive mindset and supplementation where necessary.

7. Yeast Overgrowth 

When people hear “yeast,” they often think yeast infections.

The truth is, yeast overgrowth shows up in many different ways.

It might be belly bloat, foggy thinking, sugar and carb cravings, skin problems, gas, low mood, irregular sleep…

There are so many things to consider when it comes to this very common problem and it doesn’t affect  just women and it’s not only relative to yeast infections.

Chronic yeast overgrowth is opportunistic, meaning, given the opportunity to FEED, it will! And the results are those which I mentioned above. The best way to clear the root cause of your symptoms when dealing with yeast overgrowth is to cut off it’s food source and repopulate!

So where do you start?

Cut out the culprits that FEED this guy, such as:

refined sugar

(reduce) natural sugars (even from fruit)

get rid of sugary carbs

alcohol

caffeineYeast overgrowth LOVES these things. Now is not the time to be generous and giving to this sneaky bugger. 

TIP: Taking a probiotic helps to bring the good guys back in the picture and rebalance the ratio of good to bad guys, knocking out the overgrowth of this nasty critter and helping you eliminate the root cause of those annoying symptoms.

To support the health of your gut, I’ve got a delicious juice recipe for you.

G-Health Juice Recipe

Ingredients

1 cucumber: a natural diuretic, reduces inflammation, relieves stomach acid and provides soothing cleansing effect.

2 celery stalks: aid in bowel movements, promote healthy kidney function and detoxes the body.

1 lime: stimulates digestion, eliminates toxins and purifies the liver and other organs.

1 inch piece ginger: a digestive superfood great for stimulating healthy digestion. It soothes the stomach and helps the body digest everything properly.

1 small handful fresh mint or cilantro leaves: kills microorganisms that are associated with digestive issues, stops cramping, soothes digestion, great for detoxification.

1 Tbs. apple cider vinegar: contains valuable minerals, live enzymes, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, helps normalize pH and promotes the growth of friendly bacteria. It’s also great for detoxification.

Instructions

Juice all ingredients except the ACV, you’ll mix that in at the end.

Enjoy!

You can also get additional probiotics with supplementation try this Biotic Balance Probiotics

 

Article originally published in FitLife.tv 

 

Be Your Own Dentist! Here are Tricks to Remove Tartar Buildup at Home

Tartar is the yellow or brown mineral deposit on teeth, which can lead to periodontitis, especially if it increases and without removal. Most of you probably visit the dentist in order to address this issue, however you can also do this procedure at your home. Just keep in mind these are more preventative measures and none will eliminate tartar as fast as your dentist will once you have a build-up.

To remove tartar buildup at home, there are several treatment options:

Hydrogen peroxide

Water

Baking soda

Salt

Antiseptic mouth wash

Dental pick

Toothbrush

1. Mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with ½ cup of warm water after which you should rinse your mouth for one minute. Spit, and then rinse with ½ cup of cool water.

2. The most common and effective tool to get rid of tartar is baking soda. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup. Then rinse the toothbrush with warm water, and dip it in the mixture. Brush your teeth and spit. The whole process should last for five minutes.

3. Rinse your mouth with a natural antiseptic mouth wash every second day.

4: Use a dental pick for rubbing the yellow tartar from teeth. In order not to irritate and damage your gums, be cautious not to scrape them.

In order to gain or preserve your beautiful pearly whites in that smile with bright, shiny and white teeth, follow these tips below:

Eat cheese

Consuming Swiss or Cheddar cheese before meals helps in neutralizing the acids that cause tartar. Aged cheese contains ingredients that act as a defender.

Strawberries and Tomatoes

Tomatoes and strawberries are amazing for maintaining oral health because they are rich in vitamin C. They can whiten teeth and soften tartar. Simply rub them directly onto your teeth and leave thus for 5 minutes. You can do the same procedure with other foods that are rich in vitamin C, like lime, oranges, lemons, bell peppers, berries, papaya. Afterwards, rinse your mouth with a mixture prepared from baking soda and warm water.

Further tips to preserve oral health

-You should regularly use dental floss

-Clean your mouth naturally with saliva. Salivary glands are triggered by chili food.

– In order to prevent bacteria from multiplying, rub your teeth with orange peel before going to bed and don’t rinse your mouth.

– When you brush your teeth, use a soft brush and make vertical movements. Be sure to always clean the space between gums and the teeth.

Source/Reference: www.myilifestyle.com – Original Article Source

How to Memorise an Entire Essay or Speech

How to memorise a complete essay or speech

Christmas and New year is over and for some there looms the prospect of mid term exams. A lot of these exams will be closed book exams. A closed book exam tests your knowledge and memory of a subject. One of the ways in which some students prepare is to actively learn the subject areas and also look at past questions and anticipate a question which might come up. At the moment my wife is studying for exams in which she is actively learning her subjects and also she has written 3 x 500 word essays on the three areas of study.

Together we have come up with a system which means that she can memorise a 500 word essay in 1 day and 3 x 500 word essays in 3 days. Together with actively learning the subject she is confident that she has prepared well.

In this article I will show you the system we came up with to memorise 1500 words verbatim. Sound hard? It is actually quite easy and is a system I used when at university studying for my psychology degree for 2 x 1000 word essays.

This method can also be used for memorising any kind of written work or speech.

Before you begin

Before you begin this it is important to actually believe that you can memorise a complete essay or speech whether it be 500 words or 2000 words. When I first suggested using this method to my wife she said that she would never be able to memorise an essay word for word.

Once she got over this and started telling herself that she could do it we started.

Active learning

First off, this method of memorising an essay should not be substituted for actively learning a subject. Active learning is when you read, not skim, the subject area and take note of the key points. Cross reading is also very good for active learning. This is when you read books on the subjects by different authors. Some authors are not good at getting information across so cross reading is an excellent way learning.

The method for memorising an essay or speech.

You will need to write out the essay or speech first. Treat this part of the process as if you were writing an essay to hand in for marking by your lecturer. In other words make sure it is worthy of memorising.

When you have written the essay make sure it is grammatically correct as you will be memorising every comma and full stop.

When you are sure you have a good essay or speech print it off and mark down the left margin the number of paragraphs e.g. if you have 6 paragraphs write at the side of each paragraph the numbers 1 – 6. In the right hand margin write the number of sentences in each paragraph. This is the first part of the memorisation process.

A quiet place to study

Now, make sure you have quiet space to be able to read, walk and vocalise your essay. When you are sure you will not be interrupted you can start.

With your printed essay start walking and reading out loud the essay or speech. When you have read it out loud a few times go back to the first sentence and read it out loud. Then read it again and again until you have memorised it. When you are confident you have memorised it word for word go on to the next sentence. When you have memorised the second sentence, whilst walking vocalise the first two sentences without looking at your printed essay. If you are okay with this go on to do the same with your 3rd sentence and so on until you have memorised your first full paragraph. This can take anywhere between 15 – 45 depending on motivation, alertness, quietness etc.

The reason I ask you to walk is to keep your blood flowing whilst memorising. If you are sitting down you might nod off, by walking it will prevent you from nodding off. I find walking up and down an excellent way to concentrate on reading.

Keep reading, and vocalising your essay or speech until you have memorised it completely. When you are confident of having memorised it. Vocalise it without looking at your printed sheet. If you get it right, do it again, and if you get it right a second time reward yourself with a cup of tea or coffee or whatever is your want and leave it for a few hours.

When a few hours have passed go back to the essay, read it out loud whilst walking and looking at the printed sheet and then try to memorise it again.

Once you are confident that you have memorised it completely, at the bottom of the page write down the first few words of each sentence of your essay, separated by a comma, and number each line for each paragraph. When you have done that put in the number of sentences at the end of the list and bracket it.

For example if I was writing out the first few words of this article for the first 3 paragraphs it would look like this;

Christmas and New year, A lot of, A closed book, One of the, At the moment

(5)

Together we have, Together with actively (2)

In this article, sound hard? (2)

Now what you should do is only look at the list at the bottom of the paper and read out from that whilst walking. This way you are only looking at the first few words and finishing the sentence without looking at it. If you get stuck just go back to the main essay and look at it, until you have got it completely.

Now memorise the bottom of the sheet of paper with the first few words of the essay and how many sentences are in each paragraph. This should only take 10-15 minutes at the most.

This sounds a very convoluted way of memorising an essay but it is a lot easier than it reads here.

Time taken to memorise

You should be able to memorise a full 500 word essay in about 3 hours, for your first time, using the above method. When you are practiced you should be able to memorise a 500 word essay in about 60 – 90 minutes.

About the author

Steven Aitchison is a personal development writer and creator of personal development products : GuidedMind | 99PositiveAffirmations | Mind Alchemy. 

He is also a Facebook Engagement expert and teaches others how to grow their Facebook pages, which he has done from 35,000 likes to over 1 million likes.

How To Prevent Leg Cramps, And How To Never Get Leg Cramps Again!

Pain caused by cramps is one of the worst things that can happen. It hurts, it slows us down and it hinders our progress. Cramps often come out of nowhere, and people who are trying to get in shape know just how often this particular type of pain can show up.

Below you can read how to get rid of and avoid one of the worst kind of pains – leg cramps.

What Causes Leg Cramps?

Unlike cuts and bruises, leg cramps are not caused by an outside force. A leg cramp (or any cramp for that matter) can be caused by a variety of internal issues.

In some cases, leg cramps could just mean that you are not getting enough water or specific nutrients, but in other cases, leg cramps could be an indicator of much more serious problems, like a kidney infection.

Easy Fix

People who are simply dehydrated while engaged in moderate or intense activities for long periods of time, can sometimes easily get rid of their cramps by simply drinking some warm water.

Warm water is recommended because its temperature closely resembles that of our blood, and can be absorbed into dehydrated muscles much quicker the cold water.

Individuals who are experiencing frequent leg cramps, are recommended to increase the amount of electrolytes they consume. Electrolytes are like mini masseuses in the body that work with warm water to loosen up tight muscles and stop cramping almost immediately. Electrolyte packets can be found in a local grocery store or health supplement store.

How to Prevent Leg Cramps?

Although hydration is a great start, sometimes our bodies need more than just water. The body requires specific nutrients and minerals that cannot be provided by water and electrolytes. One of the best minerals for preventing leg cramps is Magnesium. If electrolytes are the masseuse then magnesium is the massage oil.

The body uses magnesium rapidly, so, to avoid cramping you should consume about 250-300 milligrams of magnesium a day. Foods that are high in magnesium are: nuts, lentils, pumpkin seeds, quinoa, dark chocolate, spinach, molasses, prepared potatoes, and fish.

Another mineral that is great for preventing cramps is potassium. Potassium interacts with sodium in the body to direct and control liquids. Leg cramps that are caused by dehydration are usually a result of low potassium or high sodium.

Besides being able to protect you from cramps, potassium can also act as a cramp relieving agent.

When potassium enters the digestive system it will help you by directing the fluids to the affected area. If you consume foods that are high in potassium while your leg (or any part of your body) is cramping, you will be able to provide yourself with quick relief.

Remember, although cramping happens to everyone, all of our bodies are different. If you experience frequent cramping consider speaking to your doctor.

Here’s How Eating Coconut Oil Can Help Support Healthy Thyroid Function

Here’s How Eating Coconut Oil Can Help Support Healthy Thyroid Function

If you struggle with thyroid disease as 20 million other Americans, you may have finally become aware of the importance of this gland to your health. The thyroid gland is responsible for many vital functions in the body via the release of important hormones into the blood.

These signs indicate that you may be dealing with improper thyroid function

Persistent fatigue

If you sleep between 8 and 10 hours every night and you still feel tired during the day, you may be dealing with poor thyroid hormone levels. Chronic fatigue is linked to many health conditions, and it is probably the most common early warning sign of thyroid malfunction.

Brain Fog

If you have hard times focusing on your tasks, keep forgetting things and feel as if you “walk in a fog” all day, consider checking your thyroid. High thyroid hormone level affects concentration, and low levels affect memory.

Indigestion

Hypothyroidism is often accompanied with constipation. An overactive thyroid gland has the opposite effect – it causes frequent bowel movement and in some cases even diarrhea.

Mood swings, anxiety, and depression

Individuals who struggle with hyperthyroidism have their bodies flooded with hormones that trigger anxiety and nervousness. Thyroid disorders are often manifested through mood swings, irritability, and depression.

Excessive weight gain

Putting several pounds on is not such a terrifying problem, but if you keep gaining weight despite your physical activity and healthy dietary habits, you may want to consult your doctor. It may be your thyroid that affects the calorie burning process.

Thyroid disorders are also manifested through sensitivity to cold and heat, ringing in the ears, hair loss, and brittle nails.

Having your thyroid tests normal does not mean that you should not take proper care of your thyroid gland

Blood tests can only detect great thyroid imbalances, like the cases of full-blown thyroid disease. Unfortunately, minor imbalances cannot be always detected.

Diet plays an essential role in thyroid function, especially if you are into fad diets. According to a 1990 study, low-calorie diets affect thyroid function and mood. Diets low in selenium also affect your thyroid gland.

Coconut oil and thyroid gland

Diets consisting of unhealthy fats have a bad impact on both thyroid gland and blood glucose. Follow a balanced diet regimen and focus on eating more healthy fats.

Until recently, coconut oil has had a reputation as a “bad” oil, but experts have now brought clarity on why coconut oil is so healthy. Taking this into consideration, the medical community has also changed the attitude towards this underestimated food.

Coconut oil has a longer shelf life and more saturated fats than any other non-hydrogenated oil. It is widely used throughout the world, starting from the South Asian cuisine to movie theater popcorn.

Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid. It is known for its ability to increase good cholesterol and improve overall cholesterol. This makes it excellent for your thyroid gland.

Incorporate coconut oil into your diet

Coconut oil is easily available and affordable. Speaking of its cooking purposes, it is just amazing. Melt it and add it into your stir frys and curries, or you can simply drizzle it over your healthy salads. Coconut oil is an amazing substitute for vegetable oil when it comes to baking.

More interesting is the fact that people prefer using it as a cosmetic product, regardless of whether it is used instead of regular moisturizers for hair or skin.

Adding coconut oil to your diet is just one way to help your thyroid work better. Cut down on your gluten intake and try following an anti-inflammatory diet, like the Mediterranean diet for example. This diet regimen has shown to be amazing when it comes to promoting heart health.

Add more vitamins and minerals like iron, iodine, B vitamins, selenium and omega-3 fats to your diet. Avoid chemicals like dioxins that can affect your thyroid gland.

And last but not least, do something about all the stress in your life. Stress and anxiety only contribute to an existing thyroid problem.

Toasties

Toasties

Winter Pesto (Parsley, Rocket and Walnut pesto)

1 cup packed parsley leaves

1 cup packed rocket leaves

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

½ cup lightly toasted walnuts

½ cup grated Parmesan

2 small (or 1 large) cloves garlic

(I will go without)

Whiz all ingredients together in a small food processor and season to taste with salt and pepper.

To make toasties, butter bread on 1 side and place buttered side down in a hot fry pan. 

Spread bread with pesto and top with grated cheese. 

Top with bread ‘lids’ buttered side up. 

When golden on the bottom, flip to cook the other side.

How Sweet Potatoes Can Help Prevent Blindness And Help You Lose Weight How Sweet Potatoes Can Help Prevent Blindness And Help You Lose Weight

Sweet potatoes have been a typical ingredient in a portion of the best tasting dinners and treats – and for reasons unknown they are really solid. They are normally sweet, not containing abundance sugar, and have a calorie check. Sweet potatoes are solid, reasonable, and could assist avert visual deficiency and help with your weight reduction.

How Sweet Potatoes Can Help Prevent Blindness

How can such a tasty food help prevent blindness? As it turns out, vitamin A deficiency is actually the primary cause of preventable blindness.

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), vitamin A deficiency can also result in an increased risk of death from various infections and about 250 million young children, across the entire world, have a vitamin A deficiency.

Sweet potatoes have been a typical fixing in a portion of the best tasting dinners and treats – and for reasons unknown they are really solid. They are normally sweet, not containing abundance sugar, and have a calorie check. Sweet potatoes are solid, reasonable, and could assist avert visual deficiency and help with your weight reduction objective.

The bio-fortification of sweet potatoes is previously underway in South Africa, where sweet potatoes are a main of the region. This healthy vegetable has a large amount of beta-carotene, which is then converted to vitamin A by our bodies.

Giving less demanding access to new sweet potatoes as opposed to having the imported has helped individuals in specific areas get the sustenance they require. Also, the bio-stronghold procedure has permitted individuals in South Africa to have their sweet potatoes the path they like them, high in dry substance and with a firm surface.

How Sweet Potatoes Can Help You Lose Weight

As amazing as it is that sweet potatoes can help prevent blindness, the excitement over this vegetable does not stop there. Sweet potatoes can also help you lose weight. They help regulate blood sugar and do not contain a high level of refined sugars.

The sweet potatoes have a compound that can increase the level of adiponectin in our body. This hormone helps to regulate blood sugar levels. Their low glycemic record ratings can likewise utmost glucose spikes. If you want to get out the most possible of your sweet potatoes, consider boiling or steaming them, instead of roasting. Roasting sweet potatoes can cause them to lose some of their nutrients and vitamins – which is true for most fruits and vegetables.

Sweet potatoes are likewise a decent wellspring of fiber. Fiber will normally help you stay fuller for a more drawn out span of time. Eating one medium-sized sweet potato will give you 4 grams of fiber.

As specified, sweet potatoes contain a lot of vitamin A. Notwithstanding serving to avert visual impairment, vitamin A can help your invulnerable framework and advance better wellbeing for your eyes and bones. Eating sweet potatoes can even help you clear your skin break out issues.

Foods that have a low glycemic index, such as sweet potatoes, may also remain in your digestive system longer, which can keep you feeling fuller longer – allowing you to control your appetite.

Recipe Roundup

All in all, you need to incorporate more sweet potatoes in your eating regimen, however you don’t know what to make? Utilize the accompanying formulas to find some extraordinary strategies for get ready sweet potatoes.

Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup

A basic, velvety soup that you can get ready in minutes – sweet potato and carrot soup is an extraordinary noontime supper. Utilize your sustenance processor to throw together the potatoes and carrots. In the event that you are a veggie lover, substitute vegetable stock for chicken soup.

Heated Sweet Potato Latkes

Yummy sweet potato latkes are made by grinding sweet potatoes and after that blending with flour, eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This is a simple formula to take after and makes 12 latkes – enough for the entire crew.

Sweet Potato Wedges

Potato wedges produced using sweet potatoes offer a much fuller flavor than standard potatoes and contain less fat. Serve as a side dish with ham or pork. With an aggregate prepare and cook time of 45 minutes, you may need to arrange ahead before making sweet potato wedges.

Apple and Sweet Potato Hash Browns

Apples and sweet potatoes combine well together. Blend cleaved apples and hacked sweet potatoes to make a healthier serving of hash tans. There are numerous approaches to get ready apple and sweet potato hash tans, yet stay away from formulas that utilization margarine or other undesirable fixings.

Sweet potatoes are stuffed brimming with beta-carotene and other sound supplements. Begin adding them to your eating regimen and find different sweet potato formulas to set them up in distinctive ways. Having the capacity to help Prevent visual deficiency and shed pounds, alongside better skin, eye, and bone wellbeing, makes sweet potatoes the superfood of the season.

This 3 Ingredient Recipe Will Make Your Bones 20 Years Younger

Who would not need strong legs that permit one walk simple and with no exertion? Obviously, while we are still young and have splendidly strong and healthy legs we do not generally consider what our legs will be similar to or how they will feel in a couple of years. The elderly, on the other hand, are truly mindful of the way that as they become older, their legs are step by step disappointing them and that a basic walk obliges a great deal more exertion than it used to. Subsequently, for every one of you who have any sort of issue with your legs or just need to keep up your legs’ wellbeing, there is an extraordinary recipe that has been utilized following long prior as a mixture of youth.

This recipe was utilized even by our grandmas and is made of just 3 components. This recipe can make your legs look 20 years more youthful.

This powerful blend will spare you bunches of cash and will have just as advantageous or far and away superior impact than most costly creams, gels and different pharmaceuticals. It is also used against back pain, heaviness in feet or ankle pain. You will need only three ingredients.

These are the ingredients that you will need:

• 300 ml of alcohol (70%)

• 100 ml of iodine

• 10 aspirin pills of 300 mg

All of the fixings are promptly accessible and can be found in a local drug store. The iodine is known for its solid antiseptic properties and it is powerful against extensive variety of pathogenic life forms, including microscopic organisms, protozoans, infections, fungus or spores.

How to prepare it:

Blend the alcohol and the iodine together, then include the crushed aspirin pills and blend it. You can utilize it as a cure subsequent to staying 21 day in a dull and cold place.

Use it as a layer or rub it straightforwardly on the difficult spot.

Eat According To Your Blood Type

Peter D’Adamo, who is a world popular neuropathic medic, is also author of the book Eat Right for Your Type: The Individualized Diet Solution to Staying Healthy, Living Longer & Achieving Your Ideal Weight.

Peter believes that the blood types are important for the overall health and that some foods can be good to one blood type, but to other can be harmful. He says that even workout is connected to the blood type, and that the type of blood might cause some diseases.

Not every person agrees with his way of nutrition, but those 7 million sold copies of the book speak for themselves.

How does the blood type diet work?

Peter D’Adamo says that every person has its own manner of responding to foods and that is connected to the type of blood. According to him, lectins, or carbohydrate-binding proteins, can attach to different type of blood in a different way. The connection between blood types and lectins sometimes can be harmful.

The doctor explained some side effects and changes in his book, but his attention was to analyze which foods are suitable for every type of blood, and the amount that should be consumed.

Four blood types

Blood type A

In the developing stage of agriculture, 20,000 years ago, this type of blood went through a lifetime change. Those people who have this blood type should be vegetarians, and they also are referred to as “the agrarians.”

For the people with blood type A is recommended to avoid the meat, and eat more veggies, fruits, whole grains and legumes. The fresh and organic foods are the right foods for these people, and that is because they have a sensitive immunity.

Blood type O

This is the oldest blood type in the world, dating since 30,000 years ago. This type of blood requires protein-high nutrition. People with this type of blood are “the hunters.”

These people should eat protein-loaded foods, including poultry, lean meat, vegetables and fish. They should avoid dairy products, beans and grains. In order to treat the stomach ache and some other health problems, these people should take different supplements.

Blood type B

These people are called “the nomads” and they can adapt to dairy products. They have the most versatile digestive tracts and their type of blood appeared 10,000 years ago. People with this type of blood should avoid wheat, corn, lentils, buckwheat, tomatoes, sesame seeds, and peanuts. The chicken can cause some problems with the health, according to D’Adamo. The doctor recommends consuming huge amounts of vegetables, certain meat, eggs and low-fat dairy products.

Blood type AB

These people are “the enigmas,” and that is because this type of blood is since 1,000 years ago. Because this type of blood is the most recently developed type, its diet varies between the blood type B and A.

Those people with this type of blood should eat seafood, tofu, green vegetables, and dairy. D’Adamo says that these people should avoid alcohol, caffeine, and smoked meat, and they struggle with heartburn.

In case you haven’t determined your blood type, you should ask your doctor.

Refer to my other page on eat right for your blood type 

Superbrain Yoga: 3 Minutes That Maximize Brain Power

Superbrain Yoga: 3 Minutes That Maximize Brain Power

A baby is born into the world with around 100 billion brain cells (neurons), give or take a few million. The brain is so important to the human species that four weeks after conception, an embryo produces half a million neurons every minute. In fully developed humans, a complex system of 300 million neurons connects the brain’s right and left sides, but they are so minuscule that 30,000 of them can fit on a pinhead.

To make the most of one’s brain, it needs to be exercised and nurtured, just like every other muscle of the human body. Synapses – points of the brain connections – have to be created and conserved for the brain to stay alert and healthy throughout adulthood. How can a parent ensure their child’s development is constantly improving during school? What could a parent of a learning disabled child do to help them develop?

One option is Superbrain Yoga. This simple squat exercise offers benefits not just for young students, but also adults seeking brain wellness into their senior years and patients with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Down Syndrome, Alzheimer’s, or other development challenges and cognitive delays seeking normalcy and cures.

The Science Behind Superbrain Yoga

Based on the research of Dr. Joie P. Jones of the Dept. of Radiological Sciences at the University of California, the exercise works using the body’s energy centres which absorb, digest, and distribute energy to different parts of the body. These primary energy centres are actually major acupuncture points. Acupressure energy points for the brain, eyes, forehead, mouth, ovaries, parotid, temples, and testes congregate around the area of the ear affected by pressure from the exercise. In addition, the finger pads used in the exercise stimulate neuropathways into the brain by activating acupuncture points on the earlobes. According to Dr. Jones, after doing the exercise, an EEG scan shows the right and left hemispheres of the brain have synchronized.

When done correctly, the Superbrain Yoga exercise helps the energy trapped in the lower energy centres move up through the physical body’s other major centres. As the energy travels upwards, it passes through the practitioner’s heart centre and fills it with feelings of calm and inner peace. When the energy moves up further into the throat and beyond, the practitioner’s intelligence and creativity are improved. Other benefits include regulation of the sex drive, which is especially important for teenagers.

We are a culture accustomed to exercising to get fit, but with the power of the Supebrain Yoga squat we can now become brighter in the process! Prolonged practice of the Superbrain Yoga makes the practitioner, in general, smarter and more psychologically balanced.

How To Energize & Activate The Brain

To ensure you achieve maximum benefits:

1. Face East. For the elderly, face North.

2. Remove any jewelry and connect your tongue to the roof of your mouth. Leave it there throughout the exercise.

3. Take your left hand, cross your upper body to take hold of your right earlobe with thumb and forefinger. Make sure that the thumb is in front.

4. Now take your right hand across your upper body to take hold of your left earlobe. Again, make sure that the thumb is in front. At this point you’re pressing both earlobes simultaneously. Make sure your left arm is close to your chest and inside your right arm.

5. Inhale through your nose and slowly squat down to the ground.

6. Hold your breath and exhale as you start making your way back up to a standing position.

7. Repeat this squatting action 14 times. Remember to keep holding your earlobes and to keep your tongue touching the roof of your mouth throughout the entire exercise.

When To Expect The Results

To maximize the benefits of this practice, make it a fun daily habit with your child when getting ready for school or even after school when they need a re-charge. For teenagers, the best way is to lead by example and also make the first 30 days a together practice (proven by first-hand experience). You will start to see results in the first three months of daily repetition, and in seven months your child will improve their cognitive abilities (and average in school) by 20 – 35%, but by that time what once was just an exercise will become a great habit you’ll want to keep all your life – one that will ensure your next generations grow up healthy and smart.

Instant Noodles And You

What Happens Inside Your Stomach When You Eat Instant Noodles?

Instant noodles are a popular go-to lunch or dinner for those who are strapped for time (or cash), like college students. While you probably don’t consider them a health food, you may think they’re not that bad, or, at least, not as bad as eating a burger and fries or a fast-food burrito.

In a first-of-its-kind experiment, however, Dr. Braden Kuo of Massachusetts General Hospital may make you reconsider your love of instant noodles (assuming you have one).

He used a pill-sized camera to see what happens inside your stomach and digestive tract after you eat ramen noodles, one common type of instant noodles. The results were astonishing…

Ramen Noodles Don’t Break Down After Hours of Digestion

In the video above, you can see ramen noodles inside a stomach. Even after two hours, they are remarkably intact, much more so than the homemade ramen noodles, which were used as a comparison. This is concerning for a number of reasons.

For starters, it could be putting a strain on your digestive system, which is forced to work for hours to break down this highly processed food (ironically, most processed food is so devoid of fiber that it gets broken down very quickly, interfering with your blood sugar levels and insulin release).

When food remains in your digestive tract for such a long time, it will also impact nutrient absorption, but, in the case of processed ramen noodles, there isn’t much nutrition to be had. Instead, there is a long list of additives, including the toxic preservative tertiary-butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ).

This additive will likely remain in your stomach along with the seemingly invincible noodles, and no one knows what this extended exposure time may do to your health. Common sense suggests it’s not going to be good…

Five Grams of Noodle Preservative, TBHQ, Is Lethal

TBHQ, a byproduct of the petroleum industry, is often listed as an “antioxidant,” but it’s important to realize it is a synthetic chemical with antioxidant properties – not a natural antioxidant. The chemical prevents oxidation of fats and oils, thereby extending the shelf life of processed foods.

It’s a commonly used ingredient in processed foods of all kinds (including McDonald’s chicken nuggets, Kellogg’s CHEEZ-IT crackers, Reese’s peanut butter cups, Wheat Thins crackers, Teddy Grahams, Red Baron frozen pizza, Taco Bell beans, and much more).

But you can also find it in varnishes, lacquers, and pesticide products, as well as cosmetics and perfumes to reduce the evaporation rate and improve stability.

At its 19th and 21st meetings, the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives determined that TBHQ was safe for human consumption at levels of 0-0.5 mg/kg of body weight.

However, the Codex commission set the maximum allowable limits up to between 100 to as much as 400 mg/kg, depending on the food it’s added to.

(Chewing gum is permitted to contain the highest levels of TBHQ.) 

In the US, the Food and Drug Administration requires that TBHQ must not exceed 0.02 percent of its oil and fat content.

So there’s quite a discrepancy in supposedly “safe” limits, but it’s probably best to have little or no exposure to this toxicant, as exposure to five grams can be lethal and, according to A Consumer’s Dictionary of Food Additives, exposure to just one gram of TBHQ can cause:

•Nausea and vomiting

•Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

•Delirium

•Sense of suffocation

•Collapse

While TBHQ is not suspected to be a persistent toxicant, meaning your body is probably able to eliminate it so that it does not bioaccumulate, if you eat instant noodles your body might be getting prolonged exposures. This is concerning, to say the least. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), based on animal studies health hazards associated with TBHQ include:

•Liver effects at very low doses

•Positive mutation results from in vitro tests on mammalian cells

•Biochemical changes at very low doses

•Reproductive effects at high doses

Eating Instant Noodles Linked to Metabolic Syndrome

If you’re still considering ramen noodles for lunch, you should know a new study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that women who consumed more instant noodles had a significantly greater risk of metabolic syndrome than those who ate less, regardless of their overall diet or exercise habits.

Women who ate instant noodles more than twice a week were 68 percent more likely to have metabolic syndrome — a group of symptoms such as central obesity, elevated blood pressure, elevated fasting blood sugar, elevated fasting triglycerides, and low levels of HDL cholesterol.

Having three or more of the symptoms increases your risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Past research also analyzed overall nutrient intake between instant-noodle consumers and non-consumers, and found, as you might suspect, that eating instant noodles contributes little value to a healthy diet.

The instant-noodle consumers had a significantly lower intake of important nutrients like protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, vitamin A, niacin, and vitamin C compared with non-consumers. Those who ate instant noodles also had an excessive intake of energy, unhealthy fats and sodium (just one package may contain 2,700 milligrams of sodium).

What Else Is in a Package of Instant Noodles?

Aside from a lot of sodium and the preservative TBHQ, what else is found in a typical serving of instant noodles? 

Prevent Disease reported:

“The dried noodle block was originally created by flash frying cooked noodles, and this is still the main method used in Asian countries, though air-dried noodle blocks are favored in Western countries. The main ingredients of the dried noodle are wheat flour, palm oil, and salt. Common ingredients of the flavoring powder are salt, monosodium glutamate, seasoning, and sugar.

…In June 2012, the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) found Benzopyrene (a cancer-causing substance) in six brands of noodles made by Nong Shim Company Ltd. Although the KFDA said the amounts were minuscule and not harmful, Nong Shim did identify particular batches of noodles with a problem, prompting a recall by October 2012.”

The monosodium glutamate (MSG) in instant noodles is reason enough to avoid them. MSG is an excitotoxin, which means it overexcites your nerve cells to the point of damage or death, causing brain dysfunction and damage to varying degrees — and potentially even triggering or worsening learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease, and more.

Part of the problem is that free glutamic acid (MSG is approximately 78 percent free glutamic acid) is the same neurotransmitter that your brain, nervous system, eyes, pancreas, and other organs use to initiate certain processes in your body. Not to mention, MSG is also used to fatten up mice for scientific study. Yes, MSG is the perfect obesity drug. If you want to achieve your ideal body weight and health, avoid MSG at all costs.

Return to Whole, Living Foods for Optimal Health

Occasionally eating a package of instant noodles clearly won’t kill you, but when you make a habit of substituting convenience foods for real food, it’s only a matter of time before health problems will likely develop. Instant noodles are a prime example of the types of processed foods you want to avoid as much as possible, as they are virtually guaranteed to make you sick and fat if you indulge too much (and “too much” may be as little as a couple of times a week).

Processed foods encourage weight gain and chronic disease because they’re high in sugar, fructose, refined carbohydrates, and artificial ingredients, and low in nutrients and fiber. Processed foods are addictive and designed to make you overeat; they also encourage excessive food cravings, leading to weight gain. Eating processed foods also promotes insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, which are hallmarks of most chronic and/or serious diseases. On the other hand, people have thrived on vegetables, meats, eggs, fruits, and other whole foods for centuries, while processed foods were only recently invented.

Ditching processed foods requires that you plan your meals in advance, but if you take it step-by-step as described in my nutrition plan, it’s quite possible, and manageable, to painlessly remove processed foods from your diet. You can try scouting out your local farmer’s markets for in-season produce that is priced to sell, and planning your meals accordingly, but you can also use this same premise with supermarket sales. You can generally plan a week of meals at a time, making sure you have all ingredients necessary on hand, and then do any prep work you can ahead of time so that dinner is easy to prepare if you’re short on time (and you can use leftovers for lunches the next day, so you don’t have to resort to instant noodles).