In a world faced with uncertainties, we crave our holiday traditions now more than ever. We want to embrace what is familiar.

What is more comforting than a table filled with family, friends, laughter, and foods made using holiday recipes and ideas that have been passed down from generation to generation? You don’t have to abandon these culinary legacies, even if you’re trying to eat healthy.

A few simple ways to make your family holiday recipes a little healthier.

 1. Redesign the “sad beige” sides

Potatoes are nutrient-rich comfort foods, but most people have traditionally used white potatoes because there weren’t many other choices at the grocery store, and this was what they were used to eating. However, a healthier choice when preparing a potato dish would be to consider using sweet or purple sweet potatoes in place of white potatoes.

If you’re going for that traditional potato flavor, keep the peels on the potatoes, as this adds protein and healthy fiber!

If you want to try a recipe with something else, sweet potatoes are delicious, and they are high in fiber and beta-carotene. Kansas State University has been studying the potential health benefits of the purple sweet potato and its anti-cancer properties. Purple sweet potatoes typically contain unusually high amounts of anthocyanin, which is a powerful anti-cancer pigment.

Anthocyanins can be red, blue, or purple depending on the food’s chemical structure. (These anthocyanins of blue, red, and purple color pigment can also be found in many colorful fruits, like blueberries, black raspberries, and red grapes.) Anthocyanins are known to have anti-angiogenic properties. (Angiogenesis means the growth of new blood vessels. Anti-angiogenic means that it stops tumors from growing their blood vessels.)

The antioxidants are the color pigment of the food. These dark purple, blue, and red foods also contain phenols. Phenols are organic compounds that are naturally occurring in certain foods, and that have anti-aging and antioxidant components. Additionally, an American Chemical Society study found that eating purple potatoes may lower blood pressure.

For a healthy stuffing, try making one with organic sprouted rice, wild rice, or sprouted organic bread stuffing (using bread like Ezekiel or Alvarado Bakery) in place of the white, refined bread. Then, bake your stuffing in a separate dish instead of cooking it inside the turkey (where it can absorb a high amount of saturated fat from the meat). Also, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Doing both of these things allows the vegetarian or vegan diners to be able to enjoy that dish as well.

When making cornbread stuffing, purchase non-GMO, organic cornmeal (which is free of the BT toxin, that is found in some genetically modified corn, and usually grown with heavy pesticides). If you are feeling brave, try using blue cornmeal, which is about 30 percent higher in protein and has more zinc and iron than white or yellow corn.

     2. Make moister meat with healthy fats

Christmas dishes typically involve a type of creature food, like turkey or other types of meat. Try using a little orange juice and coconut oil to add moisture, and try baking them instead of frying them. If you are baking, frying, or sautéing anything, use organic, pure coconut oil, or avocado oil in place of lard, vegetable oil, or a trans-fat like Crisco. They handle heat well and have fantastic health benefits.

For other types of animals, fish, or fowl, you can grill, broil, or sauté them in a little organic cold-pressed coconut oil. After you remove them from the heat, you can drizzle some pure, organic, extra virgin olive oil on them, and serve  them with lemon juice or a lemon juice vinaigrette. When dining, choose skinless, low-fat meat pieces and then add just a tiny bit of gravy.

    3. Deliver everyone’s ‘just desserts’

For dessert, try making a pumpkin pie! You can make a whole sprouted grain crust yourself, or you can find a whole grain ready-made crust at the store, and serve coconut milk whipped cream for the topping. It’s delicious and it’s a great way to cut down on dairy.

You can also have a simple pitted date as a sweet treat. It’s just fruit and a much healthier choice. Try using non-dairy milk in your recipes or for your coffee creamer. If you want it to be sweeter, blend the milk (like the unsweetened, vanilla coconut or hemp milk) with a little extra added vanilla or maple extract in a blender and add some pitted dates. I soak the pitted dates in water to make them softer so they will crème up easier, and voilà! You have a healthier version of a sweet, holiday creamer for your coffee or desserts. You can also add a sprinkle of freshly ground nutmeg on top for a beautiful and delicious presentation

    4. Add a little nutrition to favorite snacks

When making or serving snacks, try an easy dip option such as a healthy high-protein hummus or nutritious guacamole.

Cut some cucumber, red bell pepper, or celery to use as the dipping chips! If you want to serve crackers or chips, try using a whole grain, sprouted, organic version or an organic sweet potato chip or cracker. (Late July is a good brand for chips and Mary’s Gone Cracker’s is my favorite cracker these days.)

For snacks that are easy for travel or on the go, try combinations of organic, sprouted nuts, sprouted seeds, peeled oranges or tangerines, apple slices sprinkled with a tiny bit of lemon juice, olives, pitted dates, raisins, dry fruits, kale chips, organic healthy food bars, and coconut chips.

Here are some easy substitutions:

1. Unsweetened yogurt in place of sour cream

2. Hummus or mashed avocado instead of mayonnaise for sandwiches

3. Unsweetened vanilla coconut or hemp milk in place of dairy

In closing, we know how important our holiday dinner recipes are and how these traditions can be such a stabilizing part of our lives.

And yet, we also know that some of these foods use ingredients or cooking techniques that may not be as healthy as we might desire. Eating these foods doesn’t always make our body feel its best.

There is a way to promote a healthier lifestyle, while still enjoying these holiday meals. Simply substitute a few ingredients, or make different food choices when making your Christmas dinner recipes. In this way it will be both delicious and healthier for you and your family.

The post How To Turn Classic Holiday Recipes Into Foods That Are Still Traditional But Are Much Healthier appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

If you are avoiding taking the drugs Ozempic or Wegovie, I applaud you, because I don’t believe poisoning yourself is a healthy solution for being overweight.

I did a TV interview and discussed some of the “fad” diets.

A friend of mine recently had a stroke. She had been on the Keto Diet for about 2 years. This diet puts your body into starvation mode, so the body begins to use the stored fat of the body for energy, and it helps people lose weight.

I don’t believe that putting the body into “starvation mode” is a healthy thing to do on a continual basis, because it tells the body it is in a “fight or flight” mode, which basically shuts down the immune system.

One problem with this diet is that it really doesn’t address the quality of the food. Also, it recommends a high amount of protein and fat. Many people on this diet are consuming creature protein and fats, instead of quality plant-based protein and healthy fats.

Also, it is the creature foods that can cause ill health and heart attacks, according to the Cleveland Heart Clinic and other research.

The key is to develop a healthy eating plan, with quality food, and a lifestyle that can be sustainable and support your overall health and well-being long term.

Here are five of my slimming secrets:

First of all, include organic vegetables in their natural, raw state. A raw, uncooked vegetable which has been thoroughly chewed and then assimilated will create a set of carbozyme slimming actions.

For fast weight loss, eat the leaves of vegetables, including baby spinach, beet greens, turnip greens, Chinese cabbage, mustard greens, and baby kale. These carbozymes will burn up unwanted fat cells quickly.

Enzymes in raw, organic foods, such as fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts act by stabilizing the metabolism, which increases control of the secretory processes. This creates an inhibitory effect on appetite and maintains a normal desire for food. Raw food enzymes soothe the hunger urge and control the gastric secretions, resulting in a decreased desire to overeat.

Secondly, eat a raw vegetable (carrot, bell pepper, or celery) about 10–15 minutes before a meal. Eat and chew it thoroughly.

The carbozymes in raw, organic vegetables will promote the formation of red blood cells, plus stimulate the respiration and nitrogen metabolism of the cell tissues. As a result, this creates better metabolism of protein, normalized blood pressure, corrected pancreatic function, and improved circulation.

This all adds up to better health while slimming down. The carbozymes that the raw vegetables produce alert the metabolism to help cleanse the heavy, weighty molecules that cling to the adipose cell tissues. With this catalyst action, the adipose cells are cleansed of the stored-up fats and calories.

The two recommendations above are the two MAIN things to do. As you do these, try to eat a rainbow of food colors daily. The antioxidants are in the color pigment.

Third, when you eat, take your time. Sit down. Really enjoy and chew your food well. Enzymes need time to help raise your blood sugar. Chewing actually releases properties into the vegetables that are important for health and digestion.

Fourth, try replacing a coffee (caffeine) break with a raw juice or green smoothie break. If hungry, try a glass of pure tomato juice or munch on celery, carrots, or cucumbers.

Fifth, try to have a protein at every meal (including breakfast). In order for enzymes to complete the metabolic process to keep weight off and control your appetite, they need protein. I bet you didn’t know leafy greens are a great source of protein. It is the complex amino acids (which are the building blocks of protein) that your body needs to be healthy, and those are provided by plant-based foods. Spinach is 45% protein.

Vegetables with the highest amount of protein in them are: beans, bean sprouts, green peas, spinach, asparagus, artichokes, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and broccoli.

In conclusion, slim down by eating delicious, raw, or lightly steamed vegetables, and have more vitality and radiant health!

Copyright@nancyaddison2013

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison – any amount would be greatly appreciated.

Medical Disclaimer:
Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Healthy Weight Loss Tips appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Traveling can be fun, but also stressful. One of the things that many people complain about when traveling is the lack of healthy food choices. I have noticed a trend toward more healthy choices at airports and gas stations in the last few years, so, I am optimistic about the future of eating healthier while traveling.

The food options I see at airports are usually Starbucks, newsstand snacks, fast foods, bars and a few restaurants that may have a couple of salads or vegetables on the menu. Rarely do I find organic food, even though sometimes they are there! I always try to ask. One negative thing about the abundance of food options is that many of the airports or gas stations carry more “convenience” foods than nutritious ones, so making healthy decisions is not always easy.

Here are a few helpful tips that can make your travel healthier in the food category. Especially over the winter and holidays, it’s not uncommon to get stuck in airports for long periods of time. When this happens, many of us tend to go snack or eat as a way of entertaining ourselves while waiting for our flight. So, I suggest preparing a few snacks or a meal at home before leaving on your trip. As long as they are prepackaged foods or are in clear containers, you can bring snacks to enjoy while you wait to board the flight or even eat while in the air.

Healthy, organic snacks like organic fruit, nuts, whole-grain, gluten-free crackers, bite-sized raw veggies, and sugar-free, organic, raw food or granola bars easily fit into a carry-on bag, and will keep you from needing to buy anything more than a drink at the airport. I like to make a whole grain, gluten-free sandwich, which is delicious and easy to eat. I also love to take an already peeled orange or grapefruit, that has been separated into bite size pieces.

Along with this, I put in a few napkins, paper towels, a few wet paper towels in a baggy to use to wipe my hands, or some non-toxic hand cleaning wipes, like the ones by Young Living Oils, so I can clean my hands before and after having my snack. This is especially important if traveling with small children.

Another idea is to eat a full meal before leaving your home, negating the need to snack or feast while at the airport, and giving you enough time to begin digesting your food before boarding the plane. Preparing or choosing your own food ensures that you make the best possible choices – and have no reason to consume something undesirable.

I also always take along a great book, magazine or games (cards, backgammon, mad libs) with me, so I have something entertaining to do while I am waiting. Then I don’t feel the need to entertain myself eating junk at a local food court.

Research the airport, the city, and the hotels. Each airport offers different options for dining, and you may overlook some great options. Gift shops, kiosks and the newsstands often sell snacks like fruit and mixed nuts, which are preferable to sugary and fatty treats. But read the ingredient list on the back. Many of these snacks have added sugar in them and the packaging can be misleading.

You never know when a flight will be cancelled and your layover extended, so make sure to be prepared for emergencies. Having had this happen to me multiple times, I have learned to pack an emergency outfit and overnight things in a carry on, just in case of a lost bag, an unexpected delay, or simply a spilled beverage.

Select foods carefully. If you have to eat from a restaurant, don’t choose anything too heavy, even if you are facing a long flight. Food that will settle in the stomach can cause discomfort during a flight, and even increase the necessity of using the airplane’s bathroom.

Avoid sugary and caffeinated foods, which will spike your blood sugar, can make you jittery and are dehydrating. Eating fried foods can cause stomachaches and queasiness. Eating wholesome, well-balanced meals can ensure a more comfortable flight.

Drink lots of water, coconut water, or tea. Sodas, coffee, and alcohol can cause dehydration. Staying hydrated while traveling is extremely important. Sometimes I actually find coconut water, Fiji water, or even Kombucha (a probiotic drink) at the airport or gas station, and I feel this is a healthier “water” than many of the ones offered. So, splurge on a bottle of good spring water or coconut water or organic kombucha when you get past security, before boarding your plane.

If you are concerned about the price of buying water, you can bring an empty bottle that can be refilled multiple times. This allows you to drink as much as you want for no cost. They approve of stainless steel, but they took my glass water bottle away, even though it was empty at the time, so be aware of that as a possibility.

Also, one thing that is very important when traveling is to stretch and walk around a little, but frequently. We all need to get our lymphatic system moving, so that we don’t get any inflammation. Stop, get up and stretch, and walk at least once an hour, if possible.

Take some magnesium every day so you can avoid muscle cramping or restless leg syndrome, and it will also keep your emotions calm and reduce stress. This will keep your body and mind feeling much better and your body will be glad you did.

I wear my Aeon Patches when I am traveling. They help reduce anxiety, have better sleep, and when I combine it with two of the other patches, that help protect my body from radiation.  (This is a non-transdermal therapy that is amazing. These patches reduce pain and inflammation also. I have been wearing them for around 3 years now. They have truly changed my life.) A doctor told me once that taking one airplane flight is like having 30 X-rays. Because of this, I try to protect myself from the radiation.

So, next time you are leaving on a trip, take a few healthy snacks, a book or game, and a layers of clothing with you. Preparing ahead of time can save your trip and your waistline.

I wish you joyful and healthful traveling!

copyright@nancyaddison2023

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1
Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer:

Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Healthy Travel Tips! appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

A potato dish can be made with sweet or purple potatoes in place of white potatoes. Use a high quality, organic butter, or use organic ghee or coconut oil as the healthy fat for mashed potatoes or when baking fries. Sweet potatoes are delicious and high in fiber and beta-carotene.
For a healthy stuffing, try making one with organic sprouted rice or even wild rice. Then, bake your stuffing in a separate dish instead of cooking it inside the turkey (where it can absorb a high amount of saturated fat from the meat). Also, use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Doing both of these things allow the vegetarian or vegan diners to be able to enjoy that dish as well.

When making cornbread stuffing, purchase the non-GMO, organic cornmeal (which is free of the Bt toxin). This can be a great option for those guests who need to eat gluten-free. If you are feeling brave, try using blue cornmeal, which is about 30 percent higher in protein and has more zinc and iron than white or yellow corn.

Many people are now needing to eat gluten-free. Rice and corn are gluten-free, so creating a stuffing using one of these ingredients will be a wonderful option for your gluten intolerant guests.

When preparing creature (beef, lamb, pork, fowl, fish) foods, try buying humanely-raised, 100% grass fed, hormone-free, antibiotic -free, creature foods. When preparing these foods, you might try using a little orange juice and coconut oil to add moisture, and try baking it instead of frying it. If you are baking, frying or sautéing anything, use organic, pure coconut oil in place of:
non-organic lard, Crisco (which is a trans-fat), vegetable oils (which can contain GMO: corn, soy, canola, and cotton seed oil, which are toxic oils in my opinion). Pure coconut oil handles heat well and has fantastic health benefits.

You can also grill, broil, or sauté them in a little coconut oil. 
After you remove them from the heat, you can drizzle some pure, organic, extra-virgin olive oil on them and possibly top it with some lemon or lime juice, or a lemon or lime juice vinaigrette. When dining, choose skinless, white meat pieces, and then add just a tiny bit of gravy.

Now for dessert, try making a pumpkin pie! You can make a whole sprouted grain crust yourself or you can find a whole-grain ready-made crust at the store, and make my cashew crème recipe as the whipped cream for the topping. (Recipe is on page 185 in my book: “How To Be A Healthy Vegetarian”, 2nd edition.)

They now have a coconut milk whipped creme in the freezer section of most grocery stores.

I also love having a simple pitted date as a sweet treat or dessert. It’s just fruit, and it is a healthier choice.

There are delicious pre-made, frozen gluten-free, whole wheat, and organic pie crusts in many grocery store freezer sections. Wholly Wholesome is one brand. For the gluten-free family and friends, most grocery stores now have gluten-free sections in the store and also in the freezer section. You may be surprised to find a variety of delicious healthy choices there.

You can create healthier versions of traditional family recipes
 by simply buying organic and/or humanely-raised, hormone-free, antibiotic-free ingredients.

Some foods you can switch out in your recipes are:
1. Use pure coconut oil or organic 100% grass-fed butter, or pure, extra virgin olive oil, instead of Crisco or vegetables oils
2. Use whole grain sprouted flour instead of white refined flour
3. Use organic date or coconut sugar instead of white refined sugar
4. Use honey or maple syrup in place of high fructose corn syrup or agave syrup.
5. Use organic sprouted breads, crackers, or chips instead of white refined varieties

Read the ingredient labels because a lot of gluten-free foods are loaded with sugar and/or have GMO oils in them, like canola oil.

There are new FDA label regulations. Now the labels will read: “Contains a bioengineered food ingredient”. These warnings on labels will tell you they contain Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) in the product. I highly recommend avoiding the purchase of anything which “Contains a bio-engineered food ingredient” 
on the label.

Try using an organic non-dairy milk in your recipes or for your coffee creamer. If you want it to be sweeter, blend the organic milk (like the unsweetened, vanilla coconut or hemp milk) with a little extra added vanilla or maple extract in a blender and add some pitted dates. I soak the dates in water to make them softer, so they will crème up easier, and voilà … you have a healthier version of a sweet, holiday creamer for your coffee or desserts!
When making or serving snacks, try an easy dip option such as 
a healthy high-protein hummus or nutritious guacamole. 
Cutting some cucumber, red bell pepper, carrots, or celery 
to use as dipping chips is also a great choice! If you want
to serve crackers or chips, try using a whole grain, sprouted, organic version or an organic sweet potato chip or cracker. 
(Late July is a good brand for chips and 
Mary’s Gone Cracker’s is my favorite cracker these days.)

For additional snacks that are easy for travel or on the go, 
try combinations of organic, sprouted nuts, sprouted seeds, 
pitted olives, pitted dates, raisins, dry fruits, kale chips, 
and coconut chips.

You can create a candy cane appetizer by simply arranging sliced tomatoes and mozzarella cheese alternately in the shape of a candy cane on the dish, and it’s a healthy and beautiful holiday presentation.

The cute little Santa desserts (in the photo above) are grapes 
with strawberries and slices of banana. Santa’s nose is a 
candy “red hot”, and his eyes are chocolate sprinkles. 
You use small marshmallows for the top of the Santa hat. 
There are a few marshmallow slices (which aren’t the 
healthiest of foods, but there are some healthier versions, 
if you look for them), but it is all about balance and making 
foods more nutrient dense. They are easy and fun to create! 
I taught a cooking class on making healthier holiday foods 
and we made a party of it!

Grown-ups and Children love making these! I like to use the larger wooden shish kebab skewers with a small fork on the tip to hold them, because they are more stable and longer. Be careful to help smaller children with eating them, if you are using skewers of any type.

Here are some easy substitutions I use frequently:

1. Unsweetened yogurt or cottage cheese in place of sour cream
2. Hummus or mashed avocado instead of mayonnaise for sandwiches
3. Unsweetened vanilla coconut or hemp milk in place of pasteurized dairy

With these ingredient substitutions, you can still enjoy all of the delicious flavors you love, and at the same time, you can increase your health benefits.

Eating this way, you can feel and look your very best as holiday activities continue into January. Instead of regretting what you ate, you will glow with radiant health as you welcome the New Year of 2024!

I send wishes for you, your family, and your friends to have a

Blessed, Joyful, Loving, and Healthy December!

copyright@nancyaddison2023

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:
 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Nancy’s website is: https://www.organichealthylife.com
Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer:

Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Creating Healthy Holiday Food appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Save On Health Insurance Premiums

Living healthier could mean you qualify for lower health insurance premiums. For example, if you have a high-deductible health plan (or HDHP) then you may qualify for a Health Savings Plan (or HSA) and can end up saving more money on health-related expenses because it will be tax-free.

Dine-In Instead Of Eating-Out

Suppose you’ve become more accustomed to dining out than eating in. But you’ve now decided that the only way to reach your health and wellness goals is by following a customized eating plan, and eating out just won’t help you reach your diet goals any longer. You could opt to eat at home instead. This way could create a personalized meal plan for yourself as well as save on money too by not splurging on food that comes at restaurant prices.

Choosing to go vegetarian can also cut down on your food costs. Most of the money we spend at the grocery store is attributed to meat and dairy products. Nancy Addison of Organic Healthy Life has plenty of tips and resources for helping you to cut out meat and increase your consumption of organic goods. This is one choice that can be great for your body and your budget.

Walk Instead Of Driving

Another way you can save a pretty penny while enjoying a healthier lifestyle is by saving on transportation costs if you could walk, jog, or cycle to work, especially if the commute is short and you do so on a regular basis. Plus, you’ll no doubt be getting fitter and your actions will be beneficial for the environment too.

Hire Professionals To Spring-Clean Your Home

Perhaps, you need some help on the home front when it comes to giving your home a deep non-toxic cleaning once a month. While this may seem like an extra expense, this could end up saving you money. Plus, it may free up time so that you can focus on your health journey more.

Check Your Home For Health Hazards

Even with a great monthly professional deep clean, there are some health issues that can sneak through. For example, pests can become an issue that you need to contract with a professional to eliminate. But an even more overlooked issue is mold. Even a small plumbing leak can lead to dangerous levels of mold in your home. And if it turns out to be black mold, that is a major problem. To prevent these issues, look online for “plumbers in my area” and read through the reviews to find a few potential options. Then, have them come out for written estimates before committing to one choice. That way, you’ll find someone with reasonable prices and good customer service who can help eliminate the leak – and mold threat – quickly and safely.

Buy Food In-Season

Suppose you’ve decided to cut out meat to consume a plant-based diet instead, then it may be better to buy fruits and veggies in bulk and in-season to take advantage of any savings or discounts. Better yet, you could even grow your own produce. That way, you’ll have access to the freshest of ingredients, and you’ll save on grocery experiences by not having to purchase these items at a cost plus markup price.

Do Free Outdoor Activities

If you haven’t been noticing outdoor gyms popping up everywhere, then you have been missing out on a fun (free) outdoor activity to get fit and make new friends in the process. You can also choose to run, cycle, walk, or rollerblade around your neighborhood or local park.

You can also spend about $20 to invest in a few disc golf sets. It’s a fun activity that you can do alone, with friends, or with your family almost anywhere. There are disc golf courses across the country, and they are usually free or a few dollars for general park admission.

Make Money By Leading A Healthier Lifestyle

You can do more than save money by getting healthy. You may also be able to make money! For example, you can share how you managed to save money while getting healthy, and potentially make some serious passive income through affiliate marketing. Or you could choose to start a business selling athletic equipment or personal training. If you decide to go the business route, then it’s important to market your business adequately. You can create business cards with an online template maker and customize them to reflect your branding. If you have a logo, be sure to include it along with a font and color schemes that reflect your business.

In summary, living healthily will probably mean having to make short-term sacrifices in order to see long-term results. Furthermore, you may have to be more creative in how you approach this lifestyle so that you can save money whilst taking advantage of the many benefits that leading a healthier lifestyle offers. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your home free of germs and mold, fill your fridge with organic veggies, and find other creative ways to save money while you get healthier. Nonetheless, you are sure to reap the rewards soon enough and be happier for it because you decided to take positive steps forward.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC and Katherine Williams. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

The post Tips For Being Healthier Without Putting A Huge Dent In Your Budget appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Grilling, frying, broiling, (and other cooking methods that expose meat to extremely high temperatures) “creates potential cancer-causing compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs).This is especially true when the meat is charred or overcooked. Moreover, when fat drips on the heat source, the plumes of smoke can coat meat with other dangerous chemicals. The worst offenders are fatty, well-done beef, pork and lamb, but even poultry and fish produce HCAs when seared.”(1)

If you love grilling, here are a few ways to reduce the dangers:

• Buy lean types of meat and trim off all visible fat.
• “Marinate meat. Researchers have found that this can decrease HCAs by more than 90 percent. Use combinations of beer, cider, vinegar, citrus juices, mustard, herbs, and brown sugar.”(2)
• Precook meat in an oven, and then finish it on the grill.
•Try using a lower heat. Don’t put the meat right over the fire. Put the meat to the side of the grill where the heat isn’t as hot.
• Turn the meat more frequently, and grill the meat just until it is cooked and safe to eat. Don’t cook it until it is charred. You can use a meat thermometer to check and make sure it is done.
• Avoid breathing in smoke, which also has risks.
• Veggie burgers, seitan (a protein-rich food made of wheat gluten, used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes), Portobello mushrooms and vegetables have little or no formation of HCA’s when grilled.

Try going vegetarian once in a while!
It tastes good, and is good for you!

Sources 1 & 2 Berkeley Wellness Alert University of California – 5/24/2011

By Nancy Addison CHC, AADP
copyright@nancyaddison2017

Nancy’s 7 books on Amazon are also in Audio and some of them are in large print:

 https://www.amazon.com/Nancy-Addison/e/B00E6K5KGY/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Nancy’s website is: http://www.organichealthylife.com

Support Nancy’s work – Donate on venmo – @Nancy-Addison

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast, blog, article, video is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this blog, audio podcast, article, video  for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this video or audio and the use of any products or services related to this video by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post Grilling Tips appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

The post 4 Self-Care Tips for Breastfeeding Moms appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

I started growing my own food as a child with my family, and I’ve continued it all my life. I really encourage everyone to do this, because it not only allows you to be in control of the quality of your food, but it makes it easier and less expensive to obtain healthy fresh food that has ripened naturally on the vine or tree. It also decreases the amount of pesticides you and your family consume, and using less pesticides helps protect the environment in which we all live. Food picked fresh in its vine-ripened state also has solvestrols in it. Solvestrols have natural cancer and disease-fighting components in them that are not present in foods picked green before they are ripe. It is not that hard to start growing your own food at home, whether it’s sprouts in a small container in the kitchen, or leafy greens in a pot on the balcony or porch, or vegetables in a larger garden out in your yard. I suggest starting by deciding what you wish to grow. What do you like to eat? It is a good time to start something, even with just a single plant or two. Don’t worry if things aren’t exactly right. It can be fun and you will learn along the way. Organic gardening means you don’t use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. There are many safe and less toxic ways to prevent bugs, slugs, and snails, or to handle weeds. I will list some resources at the end of this article. Organically grown fruits, vegetables and mushrooms deliver much higher amounts of the essential vitamins, micronutrients, and probiotics than those grown in toxic herbicide-doused soils. You want to start with rich organic soil, compost, high quality water, and a good amount of sunshine. You might consider testing your soil for heavy metals or an imbalance, but that isn’t essential. You can buy soil test kits through some gardening supply stores, which I will list below. You can begin with the simplest garden (and the closest thing to instant gratification), by starting a window box containing a basic organic soil mix. You can find window boxes at most garden centers or order on-line. I prefer small, reputable garden centers that are dedicated to carrying only approved organic soil amendments, as well as organic disease and pest management materials. Place your window box, pots of soil, or garden in a sunny location. Next plant your seeds as directed on the seed package. I have found that herbs and salad greens are quick and easy to grow and full of flavor and vitality.

The post How To Garden And Grow Your Own Organic Healthy Food appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Earn Your Degree

You may have been laid off as a result of the pandemic, or you might have simply realized that your current field isn’t the right fit for you.  Either way, this could be the perfect time to head back to school and complete another degree so that you can advance in your career!  For instance, if you choose to earn your Master’s degree, you can eventually land a lucrative position in a field like education, business, or health science. And you don’t have to attend classes on campus, either – instead, you can pursue your degree online so that you’ll have plenty of time for your current job and your family obligations.

Update Your Wardrobe

Want to put a spring in your step when you head out for future social gatherings?  Update your wardrobe to refresh your style!  You don’t need to spend a lot of money to pull this off, either.  To keep costs low, Literally, Darling recommends checking out flea markets and thrift stores for pieces that you can mix and match with clothing that you already own, like statement jewelry, colorful t-shirts, practical shoes, and cute handbags.

Practice Yoga and Meditation

If you’re trying to cultivate a sense of balance in your life, it’s time to start a yoga and meditation practice. You can enjoy these activities anywhere, and you don’t need lots of time or experience to benefit from them!

If you’ve never done yoga before, you’ll need to get some equipment, like a mat and yoga blocks. You can structure relaxing sequences by incorporating sun salutations, inversions, backbends, twists, and forward bends.  Try to end each yoga session with a few minutes of meditation in order to fully relax.

Start a Fitness Routine

In addition to yoga, you might want to dedicate a few hours each week to more vigorous forms of exercise. But if you haven’t set foot in a gym since before the pandemic, you might be struggling to commit to a regular fitness routine again.  In order to stay dedicated to exercising, The Art of Charm recommends choosing at least three specific days to work out each week, picking an activity that you actually enjoy, and enlisting a friend as your accountability partner.

Change Your Diet

Finally, you might be ready to change your diet.  If you’ve been ordering food from your favorite restaurants and turning to comforting dishes when you feel stressed, you can begin incorporating more home-cooked meals with fresh vegetables and fruits into your diet. You can also make an effort to include more alkalizing foods like lemons, dates, and leafy green herbs on your grocery list!  These foods help boost your metabolism, support your immune system, reduce joint pain, and increase your overall energy so that you can pursue all of your post-pandemic goals.

After living through the pandemic, you may feel like your life isn’t quite on track. But as the world enters this new phase, it’s the perfect time to focus on beneficial personal changes.  With these tips, you’ll be able to prioritize self-improvement during the pandemic recovery!

Ready to transform your health? Working with Organic Healthy Life can change your life!  Fill out the contact form on our website today to schedule a private phone consultation.

5 Self-Improvement Tips for the COVID-19 Pandemic Recovery – Guest Written Article By Beverly Nelson

Copyright@beverlynelson2021

Beverly Nelson is the creator of Stand Up For Caregivers, which aims to help protect and advocate for the health and well-being of adult caregivers.
Beverly Nelson’s website is: beverly@standupforcaregivers.org

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this email is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC and Beverly Nelson. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Do not use the information provided in this email for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read in this email.

Information provided in this email and the use of any products or services related to this email by you DOES NOT create a health counselor-client relationship between you and Nancy Addison, certified health counselor and Beverly Nelson. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post 5 Self-Improvement Tips for the COVID-19 Pandemic Recovery appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Between work, school, events, family, kids, and everything concerning life, it may seem impossible to eat healthy.

Here are my top tips for maintaining your healthy eating and health, while on the go with an busy schedule.

1. Start your day by eating a good nutritious breakfast. Your body needs fuel to function. It’s like a car that requires gas or electricity to function. Your body needs to eat. When we eat early, it revs up our metabolism.

Make a quick smoothie (I have some smoothie recipes in my books), or prepare some toast with avocado, or have some plain, organic yogurt and fruit or granola that you keep available in your kitchen. Eating a healthy breakfast is vitally important for maintaining optimum energy for your whole day.

I can still remember my daughter saying, “I am not leaving for school without having my smoothie!” She knew she felt better, could think more effectively, and could thrive until lunchtime (which was late in the day), if she had her power smoothie that I prepared for my family every morning. Invest in the time to do this, because it is well worth the effort. With healthy ingredients, this alone can transform your life.

2. Another one of my top recommendations is that if you know you shouldn’t eat something, then don’t buy it. Don’t have it in the house or office. I see people with candy and cookies sitting on their desks or in their offices. Sugar or artificial sugar (which is worse), acts like a drug and it will destroy your immune system.

One teaspoon of sugar can shut down your immune system for up to 5 hours. It is also addictive and it takes more sugar each time to satisfy that craving, because you build up a tolerance. The mind is very suggestible, so keep it out of sight and therefore out of your thoughts. I’ve found that it’s much easier to eat in a healthy way if you only have healthy foods from which to choose.

3. I really don’t believe in snacking, because it makes your body dependent on a constant intake of food. I think this leads to obesity and diabetes, because it never allows the body time to rest or the ability to use its storage of fat that it has put away for extra energy. Try to eat only at meal time.

What we think of as a meal doesn’t necessarily have to be what the advertisers or movies would have us believe. We really need just a small amount of nutrient-dense food, not a huge amount of food with empty calories and no nutrition.

Serving sizes have grown over the years and they really aren’t healthy. My son or daughter would say, “Mom doesn’t eat hardly anything.” But in reality I eat very well. I eat sitting down, slowly chewing my nutritious food that feeds my body on a deep cellular level. In this way, I feel satisfied and my body gets what it requires to feel energized and healthy.

One thing that works for me is to pick one day in advance to prepare my foods for the week ahead. I buy the ingredients the day before, and then have a day of fun, music, and the creation of my healthy dishes for the week. I find this day of food preparation to be very enjoyable, relaxing, and therapeutic.

If you have family, do it together and share the fun and healthy food preparation! Children learn by watching, and they are also more inclined to eat what they help prepare, so get everyone involved! My children now prepare amazingly healthy meals for work, school, and travel, because they learned how to do this when they were growing up.

What I know is that nutrient-dense foods give you more energy, make you feel fuller and more satisfied than nutrient-deficient foods. So, go for the nutrition that feeds the body on a deep cellular level.

The meals I eat are small but nutritious, and they are eaten slowly and chewed well, without liquids that would water down my digestive enzymes. Remember to have your liquids at least 2 hours after a meal or 30 minutes before a meal, but NEVER with a meal. You need to digest your food fully and completely. If you water down your digestive enzymes and aren’t chewing your food until it’s liquid before swallowing it, then your body won’t be able to digest your food effectively. Digestion-related issues are a major cause of many health problems.

Some healthy meal suggestions:

Combine some slices of apples, pears, peaches, or other fruits or vegetables, with some sprouted seed or nut butter of your choice to have as a light meal.

Cut up some vegetables to use with hummus. This makes a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal. I cut up cucumber, red bell pepper, zucchini, squash, mushrooms, and tomatoes, and put them in a good glass container to take with me for meals. Be sure to put the hummus in a separate container, so the vegetables stay fresher.

My daughter was telling me about her “jar salads” that she is making. You can make salads in large jars in advance, and set them in the refrigerator, to have ready for utilizing another day. Put the salad dressing on the bottom of the jar, then stack your salad ingredients on top of it. I would place things like small whole tomatoes, olives, or radishes, or something not too absorbable on the first layer over the dressing. This way the salad dressing doesn’t make your salad soggy before you are ready to enjoy it. When you are ready for your salad, simply shake it up in the jar and eat it out of the jar, or you can pour it out into a bowl or plate to combine and enjoy.

My son makes his salads for work in transportable containers. He places his dressing in a separate small container to add to his salad later. Use your favorite veggies or greens.

For any of your meals, (hummus, nut butters, smoothies, salads), you can even add some Indoor Organic Gardens Of Poughkeepsie’s broccoli powder to it for extra nutrition. (Put my name “Nancy”  in the discount code box for a discount.)

Mix the broccoli powder in the food (hummus, butter, potatoes, salad, smoothie, avocado, etc.) for the magnificent sulforaphane nutrition. New studies show that if you add broccoli to your diet a few times a week, it can reduce the chance of cancer by up to 40%. Remember it’s all about the quality of your nutritious food.

The Indoor Organic Gardens Of Poughkeepsie, makes this powder from organic, freshly grown sprouts which are even more nutrient-dense than full-grown broccoli. They can overnight them to you also!

4. Beware of buying things that are pre-chopped. Many of my clients go for these, but when I show them that they are usually not organic, and are conventionally grown with GMO seeds or glyphosate (an antibiotic used on foods as a drying agent and/or herbicide chemical to kill weeds, but really kills all life), which is one of the main reasons they are having health challenges, they decide to try a different approach.

Most of these pre-cut or pre-prepared meals and foods are NOT organic, have canola oil in them (or other unhealthy ingredients), and are very high priced and tough on the budget.

Another thing to be aware of is that when foods are cut, they start to lose their nutrients as soon as they are exposed to oxygen. So, chop them yourself and have control over how long they are cut and if they are organic.

What I do is take them whole and just cut them up as I eat them. I find it easy, and it also slows me down from eating my food too fast. I sit and cut a bite at a time and eat it. Take a plate and silverware with you. Eat with dignity. You deserve it.

5. Make time for yourself and your health. As I mentioned earlier, choose a day to make a large pot of soup, beans, rice, quinoa, stew, lasagna, or pizza to have for meals in the coming week. Make it an event that is fun, with music, candlelight, and family or friends. Put it on your calendar like it is a business appointment with the Doctor, only it is a health appointment with yourself that is going to give you a higher quality of life, more energy, less sick days, and more vitality!

Decide on two to four main dishes you will have for the coming week and cook them on a weekend day or a day you have off from work.

You can also get a recipe prepared and use a crock-pot to cook it during the day while you are at work, and have a meal ready when you get home. It can be a marvelous dinner and enough left over to save for another day.

Once you do that, put it into a variety of single-serving bowls you can put in the refrigerator or freezer, and take them out as needed for meals at work, home, or school.

6. One thing I recommend for everyone, is to make an investment in a set of glass “Oven to Freezer” single or double serving containers with snug-fitting lids. This will make your life so easy! Make large amounts of foods, then store them in these containers for use later in stir-fries, side dishes, meals, etc. If you come home late and are tired, take one of these out of the freezer, remove the lid, and put it in the oven to heat it up while you take a shower, walk the dog, or are going through your mail.
7. I understand that not everyone has access to a work refrigerator, but many folks do. I recommend utilizing the office fridge and freezer to optimize your diet and keep your healthy foods available for your meals.
8. Just remember to NEVER use a microwave to heat ANYTHING! Microwaves destroy the molecular structure of your food and destroy the nutrients. Don’t even heat water in them. Please, I care about you. Use a little hot plate to put your warm drink on so you don’t have to reheat it. Try using a little warming oven or toaster oven, or don’t heat it, and eat it at room temperature.

I’ve worked with movie stars, models, CEO’s, doctors, lawyers, etc. Most of them were sick quite often, or had “allergy” problems, autoimmune, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc. Once they decided to make their health a priority, and actually started taking control of the quality of their food and what went into their body, their health transformed.

Usually within a week or two, they had improved quality of sleep, higher amounts of energy, sharper mental focus, and better blood tests, and they became believers.

What goes into our body turns into our cells, our tissues, and our blood. How could our food and drink not affect our overall health and well-being.

So, take control of your life!

I have many wonderful easy recipes in my six cookbooks. I also have a lot of recipes in my blog, and on my Youtube videos. Preparing healthy food is easier than you think.

Oftentimes when I do a pantry make-over for a health counseling client, I find out what a person likes to eat, and then we go together on a grocery store shopping trip. We replace their favorite foods with better, more nutritious versions that support their health and well-being.

Let’s turn those tired sick days into energetic healthy days!

You can do this!

It is a choice.

It can be easy, delicious, and fun!

If you would like to ask a question, please email me at nancy.g.addison@gmail.com.

I will pick one question each month to answer.

Please forward this newsletter to friends, family members or colleagues who might be interested and inspired by it, or share it with your social media! Then they will be getting these great tips and yummy recipes!

If you like this newsletter, you may like my books,

which are also now in audio!

To view my books, go to this Universal author link: Author.to/nancyaddison

copyright@nancyaddison2019

You can reach her on her website, Organic Healthy Life .com, or find easy, healthy recipes in Nancy’s books (which are half cookbook).

Here is her author page on Amazon. Author.to/nancyaddison

Nancy’s social media links:

Twitter – Nancygaddison https://twitter.com/nancygaddison

Linked In – Nancy Addison https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyaddison/

Facebook – Nancy – organic healthy life https://www.facebook.com/authornancyaddison/

Instagram – Nancy- organic Healthy Life https://www.instagram.com/nancy.organichealthylife/

I Heart Radio Show Podcasts Organic Healthy Lifestyle https://www.iheart.com/show/209-Organic-Healthy-Lifestyle/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/nancyaddison/

The information from Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison, Organic Healthy Lifestyle is not offered for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease or disorder nor have any statements herein been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We strongly encourage you to discuss topics of concern with your health care provider.

Medical Disclaimer: Information provided in this article, book, podcast, website, email, etc. is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Nancy Addison CHC, AADP. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professionals, or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.

Limits of Liability and Disclaimer of Warranty

The author and publisher are not liable for the misuse of this material. This article, website, podcasts, and books are strictly for informational and educational purposes. Nancy Alisa Gibbons Addison offers information and opinions, not a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or healthcare provider before taking any home remedies or supplements, or following any treatment suggested by Nancy Addison or by anyone listed in the books, articles, or other information contained here. Only your healthcare provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.

Nancy’s website: https://www.organichealthylife.com

For more information about Nancy Addison and her work please visit her website at www.organichealthylifestyle.com

The post How To Eat Healthy With A Busy Schedule appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Grilling, frying, broiling, (and other cooking methods that expose meat to extremely high temperatures), “creates potential cancer-causing compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs). In fact, The American Institute for Cancer Research just released a warning that grilled foods can be carcinogenic.

This is especially true when the meat is charred or overcooked. Moreover, when fat drips on the heat source, the plumes of smoke can coat meat with other dangerous chemicals. The worst offenders are fatty, well-done beef, pork and lamb, but even poultry and fish produce HCAs when seared.”(1)

If you love grilling, here are a few ways to reduce the dangers:

• Buy lean types of meat and trim off all visible fat.

• “Marinate meat. Researchers have found that this can decrease HCAs by more than 90 percent. Use combinations of beer, cider, vinegar, citrus juices, mustard, herbs, and brown sugar.”(2)

• Precook meat in an oven, and then finish on the grill.

•Try using a lower heat. Don’t put the meat right over the fire. Put the meat to the side of the grill where the heat isn’t as hot.

• Turn the meat more frequently, and grill the meat just until it is cooked and safe to eat. Don’t cook it until it is charred. You can use a meat thermometer to check and make sure it is done.

• Avoid breathing in smoke, which also has risks.

• Veggie burgers, seitan (a protein-rich food made of wheat gluten, used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes), Portobello mushrooms and vegetables have little or no formation of HCA’s when grilled.

Try going vegetarian once in a while!

It tastes good, and is good for you!

Sources 1 & 2 Berkeley Wellness Alert University of California – 5/24/2011
By Nancy Addison CHC, AADP
copyright@nancyaddison2017

The post Safe Grilling Tips For The Summer Cookout! appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

The post Holiday Survival Tips appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

Grilling, frying, broiling, (and other cooking methods that expose meat to extremely high temperatures), “creates potential cancer-causing compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs).

This is especially true when the meat is charred or overcooked. Moreover, when fat drips on the heat source, the plumes of smoke can coat meat with other dangerous chemicals.

The worst offenders are fatty, well-done beef, pork and lamb, but even poultry and fish produce HCAs when seared.”(1)

If you love grilling, here are a few ways to reduce the dangers:
• Buy lean types of meat and trim off all visible fat.
• “Marinate meat. Researchers have found that this can decrease HCAs by more than 90 percent. Use combinations of beer, cider, vinegar, citrus juices, mustard, herbs, and brown sugar.”(2)
• Precook meat in an oven, and then finish on the grill.
•Try using a lower heat. Don’t put the meat right over the fire. Put the meat to the side of the grill where the heat isn’t as hot.
• Turn the meat more frequently, and grill the meat just until it is cooked and safe to eat. Don’t cook it until it is charred. You can use a meat thermometer to check and make sure it is done.
• Avoid breathing in smoke, which also has risks.
• Veggie burgers, seitan (a protein-rich food made of wheat gluten, used as a meat substitute in vegetarian dishes), Portobello mushrooms and vegetables have little or no formation of HCA’s when grilled.

Try going vegetarian once in a while!
It tastes good, and is good for you!

Sources 1 & 2 Berkeley Wellness Alert University of California – 5/24/2011
By Nancy Addison CHC, AADP
copyright@nancyaddison2017

For more recipes or nutrition information you may like Nancy’s award-winning cookbooks, that include health and nutrition information. You can see them on her website: www.organichealthylife.com

Leave a comment and join the conversation!

The post Grilling Tips appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

First: Before going to a cocktail party, I usually take one tsp. of raw, organic green food powder (I like “Perfect Food” powder by Garden of Life, spirulina powder, or chlorella powder), and 1 tsp. of organic psyllium husks, with a little water. I then drink another glass (16 ounces) of water immediately afterwards.

Doing this makes me feel a bit full and prevents me from showing up to a party hungry, which can lend itself to overeating.  This drink mixture  also contains a lot of fiber, which can be helpful if one overindulges in the liquid spirits at the party.

Second: When I am in a buffet line, or at a party where there is an amazing amount of food, I use an appetizer or salad plate instead of a dinner plate. People who do this, on average, eat 40 percent less! I try to choose cut up fresh veggies, hummus and other truly healthy foods. In addition, I try to avoid sugar.

According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, one teaspoon of added sugar shuts down a person’s immune system for up to five hours. (1) Since I am wanting to feel really great this season, boost my immune system, and avoid being sick, I keep this in mind while I am eyeing the beautiful deserts and goodies.

Third: If overindulgence in spirits is a problem, here are a few natural ways to help relieve a hangover:

Remedy #1: Combine 1 tsp. raw, unfiltered honey, 1/2 c. freshly squeezed orange juice, and ¼ c. kefir or yogurt. Consume. 
•   Remedy #2: Soak organic dates
(pitted) in water for a few hours or more. Drink the water and eat the dates.

Remedy #3: Eat a banana.

Remedy #4: If feeling nauseous, try cutting up a bit of fresh organic, ginger root (you can buy this in the fresh produce section of the grocery store) into little pieces, and steeping it in hot water for about 3 – 5 minutes to make a ginger tea. It is very effective for relieving nausea.

Four: Make sure to get enough rest. Everyone has experienced the fatigue, lack of focus, and short temperedness that can follow a poor night’s sleep. We don’t want to experience that during the holidays! But even beyond these side effects, research has linked poor sleep with higher risks of heart disease and stroke, Type 2 Diabetes, and depression.(2)

If you have trouble sleeping, try having a little chamomile tea or warm milk (hemp, coconut or from organic, humanely raised, and grass fed cows or goats) with 1 tiny bit of raw, unfiltered honey.
If you are under a lot of stress and need a little relief, valerian root can help with tension or anxiety. For thousands of years, the herb valerian has been used in Europe and Asia to aid with sleep or anxiety. For insomnia, it’s suggested you use between 400 milligrams to 500 milligrams of valerian root up to two hours before bed.

Also, as we get older, humans don’t produce as much melatonin, which is what helps us sleep. You can buy melatonin as a supplement at the store. It comes in different strengths (one to three milligrams). Dr. Gary Massad, who has researched melatonin and sleep problems in depth, states that studies show if you take half a milligram of melatonin around three or four in the afternoon and then another half gram again about an hour before bedtime, it will work most effectively.

Other hormone imbalances can also disrupt sleep patterns, so have your doctor check you for any hormone imbalance or vitamin deficiencies. I recommend only using a vitamin from a whole food source, and I do not recommend ever taking synthetic vitamins.

You might also listen to recorded sounds of rain or ocean waves to help with sleep, as they may relax your mind. Experiment to find out what works best for you.

Five: Most people are so busy doing everything for everyone else, that they aren’t making enough time to nurture and take care of themselves. Let’s face it, the better we take care of ourselves, the better we can take care of the ones we love.

Make sure you take some time each day to slow down, calm the mind, get a little exercise, and love yourself. If we don’t take a little time for ourselves, stress can get hold of us.

Try making an appointment with yourself each day to slow down, rest, exercise, and do whatever you need to do to take care of yourself. Even consider marking it in your calendar or setting a daily timer to keep you on track. Try and keep that appointment like it is with your most important client or friend.
I have exercise down as an appointment, and although I reschedule once in a while, I don’t cancel it because it is a commitment to myself (even if that just means walking around the block briskly).

Six: If you’re feeling blue, pamper yourself and do what feels good. Try to take a walk, or spend time alone if that’s what you want. Remember, this is your holiday too and you can be there for yourself just like you try to be for everyone else.

I’ve spent many a holiday alone. Sometimes I have felt a little blue. When that happens, I intentionally will shift my focus to something new. Exercise has been shown to help with weight maintenance, health, stress relief and depression. So, make sure you keep it in your schedule. Or, I may turn on a funny movie, take a walk, turn on joyful music and call a friend to come over, or take a supplement called 5 HTP.
5-HTP or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is an essential amino acid that can increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, similar to antidepressants.

Low levels of serotonin can contribute to the development of depression and increased appetite. I have found 5 HTP really helps me when I am feeling low. Studies show it begins working as quickly as 15 to 20 minutes after taking it. You can purchase it at a healthy grocery store.

Remember, the holidays only come once a year and only last for a short time. So many of us have an idealized idea of what the holidays should be like and can be disappointed when they don’t live up to those expectations.

Try to be realistic and remember, nobody has a perfect holiday or perfect family. If you follow these tips, you might just find this year to be healthier, less stressful and more joyful!

Please leave a comment and join the conversation!

Everyone would love to hear what you think!

Sources:
1- Albert Sanchez, J. L. Reeser, H. S. Lau, P. Y. Yahiku, R. E. Willard, P. J. McMillan, S. Y. Cho, A. R. Magie, and U. D. Register. “Role of sugars in human neutrophilic phagocytosis.” The American Society for Clinical Nutrition, Inc. 1973. http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/26/11/1180.abstract.
2- NHS, Government of United Kingdom, Why lack of sleep is bad for your health 
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/tiredness-and-fatigue/Pages/lack-of-sleep-health-risks.aspx.

3- Find a Vitamin or Supplement, 5 – HTP,, Web MD, http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-794-5-HTP.aspx?activeIngredientId=794&activeIngredientName=5-HTP.
copyright@nancyaddison2015
I’d love to hear your comments.
For more information contact Nancy (at) nancyaddison.com

The post Healthy Lifestyle And Nutrition Tips For Surviving The Holidays appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.

1. Stay hydrated! Even though they are liquid, sodas and coffee are not hydrating. So, drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Hydration is a major factor in staying well and healthy!
2. Juice half an organic lemon or lime and add to a glass of warm purified water. Drink this first thing in the morning before anything else goes into your stomach. This will help cleanse your organs, give you a vitamin C boost and help alkalize your system.
3. Make your healthy breakfast and/or lunch your largest meals of the day. You need this to give your body sustainable energy throughout the day.
4. Eat healthy fats. Fats are good for you in the right form, quality and quantity. These “good fats” will actually give you more energy, help you lose weight, fight inflammation and support your brain function.
5. Exercise at least 50 minutes 3 times a week. This helps you get oxygen flowing throughout your body and cuts down on stress.
6. Take time for yourself. Take a long hot bath, a walk, a nap, a massage or manicure. Even if it is just for 15 minutes, nurture yourself, breathe deeply, and think of peaceful thoughts. Play some uplifting music. It is amazing how rejuvenating this can be!
7. Volunteer. There is no better way to invigorate your life than to do something in a volunteer way. No matter how low things seem to be, when you volunteer, it puts everything into perspective and can empower you! It is a great activity to do as a family or a group. There are so many worthy groups out there that could use some help. If you are lonely, it is a great way to get out, meet some new friends and have some fun. When we give, we always get much more back in return.

Remember, if you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of others. So, be patient and kind to yourself during the holidays.
I wish you and yours a merry holiday season! Love, Nancy
copyright@nancyaddison2012 for more information go to wwww.organichealthylifestyle.com

The post Survival Guide to the Holidays! by Nancy Addison appeared first on Organic Healthy Life - Nancy Addison - Nutrition.