Friday 27 February 2015

7 WAYS TO HEAL IBS NATURALLY


Cute woman having a stomachache in the bathroomIrritable Bowel Syndrome: it’s an affliction that affects millions of people worldwide (including one in five Americans) every day – causing chronic pain and driving those who suffer with it to their wits end.

But what if I was to tell you there is a way to kick IBS in the guts without resorting to prescription drugs and chemicals?
7 Ways To Heal IBS Naturally

Here are my top seven tips to showing IBS the door naturally.  

1. ELIMINATE ALLERGENS

Anyone who knows me will be able to tell you that I am not a fan of gluten! With our guts not designed to break down the protein (gluten destroys the gut lining), eradicating it from your diet can be a simple yet effective way of curing IBS – fast! Present in wheat, barley, rye, oats and spelt, gluten pops up everywhere, including in bread, cereal, pasta, sauces, crackers, cakes, pastries, tortillas and beer, amongst other foods. When removing gluten from your diet to help reduce IBS therefore, it is critical to ascertain exactly what items need to be avoided in order to give your gut the true break it deserves.
 
Other such common allergens include dairy, yeast, eggs, corn, soy and nuts. If you get no relief from boycotting gluten (make sure you cut it out for at least six weeks), eliminating one of these other food groups from your diet (and then reintroducing each one over a period of 12 weeks), can also be an effective way to ascertain if your IBS has a trigger. And remember – whatever you eat, always ensure it is high quality, organic and unprocessed.

2. GO PROBIOTIC

When it comes to gut health, it is vital that the natural flora in the stomach is allowed to thrive. As we already know, our immune systems are connected to our gut and when our gut is not happy, our whole body is not happy. Unfortunately however, certain life stressors such as anxiety, prescription drugs, chlorinated water, farmed meat, and processed food etc. can throw off the natural bacteria in our bodies, inflaming the lining of the gut as a result.
 
So how to get a happy tummy? Probiotics.
 
Probiotics are the ‘friendly’ bacteria that keep our digestive systems healthy. Natural probiotics include sauerkraut, kefir, miso soup, kombucha, tempeh and kimchi. Apple cider vinegar is also great for ‘good’ bacteria. If you cannot get your hands on any of these foods, a good quality probiotic supplement can work equally as well.
   
3. OIL UP

Essential oils are one of nature’s most potent medicines. Did you know that frankincense can help to reduce inflammation in the body – boosting the immune system and supporting the human emotional and nervous core? Until Laurentine and I made the Food Matters documentary, neither did we!
 
Did you also know that peppermint oil can calm muscle spasms in the gut, while tarragon, fennel, caraway, coriander and anise can together soothe stomachaches and reduce bloating? Essential oils are capable of so much, and their amazing healing properties in relation to IBS are no exception.
 
4. FEED ON FIBER

Taking additional fiber to keep your bowel functioning can be very effective at reducing IBS systems. Organic psyllium is the best in this regard in my view – adapting to the needs of the digestive system as they arise. Alternatively, a few tablespoons of freshly ground flax seeds taken daily can work wonders.
 
5. TREAT YOUR MIND

When it comes to the physical manifestation of our inner minds, our guts tend to be a primary outlet. Many people with unresolved emotional conflict and tension present with IBS, and therefore treating the mind can be just as important as treating the body. Yoga, meditation and exercise are three such ways to help cleanse the mind and work through inner turmoil, and can make an immense difference to gut health.

6. MAP YOUR DIET

Recent research has shown that a group of gassy carbohydrates called FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides And Polyols) significantly contribute to IBS. It is therefore arguably possible to reduce the symptoms of IBS by avoiding these foods. The program is known as the Low FODMAP Diet and is now recommended as one of the most effective dietary therapies for IBS. Foods to avoid include apples, onions, milk, beans and mushrooms.
 
7. AMEND YOUR EATING REGIME 

Eating small portions slowly and regularly can help reduce the impact and strain on the gut. In doing so, IBS symptoms can be greatly decreased. Sounds easy? It is.


Do you have any natural IBS-fighting suggestions to add to this list?

A Recipe For Fat Flush Water


by Alanna Ketler.
You may have heard some of the hype about “Fat Flush Water.” But how exactly does a water flush fat out of your system? Clearly, water is not some kind of magic diet supplement. Your body needs enough water every day to keep hydrated and cleanse itself of unwanted materials. Fat deposits that form on the body can be tough to break down and eliminate, but proper nutrition and exercise can help greatly with this.

Fat is broken down when the body uses its fat deposits to produce energy, the triglycerides in the fat cells are removed. Then, these are broken down into fatty acids and glycerols and are then absorbed into your muscle tissue and internal organs where they are then broken down even further through various chemical processes. If the products leftover from these chemical processes is not used by the body as energy, they have then considered waste products and need to be removed from the body. This is where the role of water comes in.

The Role Of Water

Water is the vehicle used to remove these waste products from the body. The leftover materials from the fat breakdown are then filtered out of your organs by the water that you drink. The water carries the waste to your bladder where it is then expelled from your body through your urine! Our bodies truly are amazing! It is important to drink enough water each day to keep you hydrated and facilitate the breakdown and elimination of fat cells. Many sources claim that you should be consuming around 8 glasses of water per day, but this number can largely vary depending on your size, how often you are exercising and even how hot it is outside. Try and keep drinking water consistently throughout the day and consider water before soda, fruit juices or other sugary drinks as these can actually dehydrate your body even more. Often a lack of energy and even headaches throughout the day are simply caused by mild dehydration. It is a good idea to make a conscious effort to drink more water. A little extra is definitely better than not enough!

The Fat Flush Water Recipe -And How It Works

2 Litres (64 oz.) Purified Water
1 Tangerine, sectioned
1/2 Grapefruit, sliced
1 Cucumber, sliced
4 Peppermint or Spearmint Leaves
Ice, (made from purified water) optional
Mix in a pitcher before bed and drink throughout the entire next day. Please consider using organic produce for this, if it is unavailable to you, thoroughly wash the produce before adding it to the water.
  • The tangerine increases your sensitivity to insulin, stabilizes blood sugar and because they are high in vitamin C, you increase the fat burning during exercise
    Tangerine increases your sensitivity to insulin, stabilizes blood sugar, and stimulates genes to burn fat. – See more at: http://rawforbeauty.com/blog/fat-flush-water.html#sthash.uB4BsHaw.dpuf
  • The grapefruit will increase metabolic energy, burn fat and increase energy
  • The cucumber helps you to feel more full and acts as a natural diuretic which means less bloating and water retention
  • The mint leaves aid in digestion
There you have it! Please be advised that drinking water alone or even this recipe for the water provided above is unlikely to burn fat on its own. This is considered a fat flush, meaning that you will still need to do the exercise that is required to break down the fat, so that it can then be eliminated by the body. Proper nutrition also plays a huge role, it's not about restricting calories, but making sure to get enough calories for your body from healthy, lean, whole foods. At the very least, this tasty water recipe will give you some added nutrients throughout the day, and help to ensure that you are drinking enough water. Enjoy!

Sources

Thursday 26 February 2015

13 WEEDS, PLANTS & CACTI YOU CAN ACTUALLY SURVIVE ON


plate-2

OK so you are out in the wild and you are out of food…. Or are you?
Look around people there is free food everywhere! The hard part is figuring out what you can eat and what will kill you.
First, to find the right food you have to know where to look. If you are in a tropical or warm humid climate, the food will be basking in the sun normally in a clearing or on the edge of a forest. In a dry climate, most of the food will be near whatever water source you can find. So what if you cannot find water? No problem you should be able to find cactus and you will be amazed that many are edible.
If you have internet access, or better yet if you think about it before you go, you can look up local plants that are indigenous to the area you are planning on going to. Print out what you can and get pictures so you can compare. Be careful because some plants look different in different regions and at different life stages.
4-panel

Did you know that ALL grass is edible? Its true and anything less than 6” is easy to find, chew and digest. The flavor ranges from sweet to bitter and if you have ever been to a juice shop that sells wheatgrass you know how sweet it can be. Grass is also very healthy!
Weeds are abundant everywhere and many are not only edible but they actually taste great! Here are just a few that you can eat.
  • The leaves of Dandelions make a great salad especially if you packed a light vinaigrette. The flowers of the Dandelion can be made into wine if you have the time.
  • Green rippled Plantain leaves can be cooked like you would any other tough green.
  • Sorrel tastes somewhat lemony and is found all over North America and Europe. The younger leaves have a citrus flavor and the older leaves go good in soups.
  • Most Cresses (Garden cress, water cress, rock cress, pepper cress) are great in salads and soups.
  • Catnip is not just for cats. Cats find the aroma irresistible and humans find the plant very relaxing.
  • Chickweed is a succulent and is filled with vitamins, minerals, omega-6 fatty acids and more. Do not eat too much as it can cause diarrhea.
  • Burdock tastes like asparagus when stripped of the rind and boiled before the flower opens.
  • Echinacea is not only a medicinal herb it is also a wild edible food. The leaves and flower petals are edible raw or cooked.
  • Garlic Grass has small shoots and looks like spring onions or cultivated garlic. Chop it like scallions and use in salad or pesto.
  • Red Clover can be eaten raw or you can steep it in hot water for a delicious tea. You can also use the leaves and the flower blossoms in a salad.
  • Alfalfa is not only good but it is good for you. You can eat the leaves or the young shoots raw or cooked
  • http://www.offgridworld.com/13-weeds-plants-cacti-you-can-actually-survive-on/

Avocado Pasta


Avocado Pasta - The easiest, most unbelievably creamy avocado pasta. And it'll be on your dinner table in just 20 min!

The easiest, most unbelievably creamy avocado pasta that everyone will love. And it’ll be on your dinner table in just 20 min!
Avocados. I love them. I could eat them by itself with a little bit of sea salt. I could eat them mashed up in guacamole with an entire bag of chips.
Avocado Pasta - The easiest, most unbelievably creamy avocado pasta. And it'll be on your dinner table in just 20 min!
And now, I can eat them in the most glorious, most creamy pasta I’ve ever had. And the best part about this is that there’s no cream or butter in this. All you need is simple, fresh ingredients. That’s it.
Avocado Pasta - The easiest, most unbelievably creamy avocado pasta. And it'll be on your dinner table in just 20 min!
So how is this so creamy? Well, all you need are a couple of ripe avocados, fresh basil leaves, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil. From there, you can just throw it all into a food processor and give it a whirl! Done and done.
Avocado Pasta - The easiest, most unbelievably creamy avocado pasta. And it'll be on your dinner table in just 20 min!
Toss it with your favorite pasta noodles – spaghetti, rotini, macaroni, etc. – along with some fresh veggies. You can really use any veggies you’d like but I loved the sweet corn kernels and crisp cherry tomatoes.
Avocado Pasta - The easiest, most unbelievably creamy avocado pasta. And it'll be on your dinner table in just 20 min!
Plus, it’ll be on your dinner table in 20 min from start to finish. It doesn’t get much easier than that!
AVOCADO PASTA
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Yield4 servings
The easiest, most unbelievably creamy avocado pasta that everyone will love. And it'll be on your dinner table in just 20 min!
INGREDIENTS
  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 2 ripe avocados, halved, seeded and peeled
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup canned corn kernels, drained and rinsed
INSTRUCTIONS
  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
  • To make the avocado sauce, combine avocados, basil, garlic and lemon juice in the bowl of a food processor; season with salt and pepper, to taste. With the motor running, add olive oil in a slow stream until emulsified; set aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine pasta, avocado sauce, cherry tomatoes and corn.
  • Serve immediately.
NOTES

Top three factors for improving your eyesight naturally

By: Derek Henry
eye


When looking to improve your eyesight, it seems that eye exercises are the most commonly prescribed method to do so. Although it is an important component, there are may other factors you need to consider if you want to seriously improve your eyesight.

Detoxify your liver

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is a strong relationship between your liver and eye health. Improving the health of your liver can often help prevent and improve eye conditions.

The liver is your main detoxifier and filter of your bloodstream. Any toxins you ingest eventually end up in your liver to be broken down and excreted from your body. The better your liver is at detoxification, the fewer toxins you will have in your body.

However, when the liver becomes compromised, the quantity of toxins increases, causing free radical damage and harm to your organs and tissues. The delicate retina and macula in your eyes are very vulnerable to free radical damage, and it can have a seriously negative impact on your vision. Free radicals can attack the retina and result in the breakdown of healthy tissue.

Liver blood deficiency can cause blurry vision, short sightedness, dry eyes and floaters. If you have excessive liver heat, it can result in painful, burning and blood shot eyes.

Based on these points alone, it becomes apparent that detoxifying your liver is an important component to improving your eyesight naturally.

Nourish your eyes and brain

As a general rule, eating plenty of raw vegetables that are rich in antioxidants and various carotenoids (typically yellow, orange and red pigments) will help protect and improve eyesight. This is mainly accomplished through lutein and zeaxanthin, two specific antioxidants found in large quantities around the lens and retina of the eyes, which have been shown to reduce the risk of macular degeneration.

Foods that are high in carotenoids:

• Carrots
• Sweet potatoes
• Pumpkin
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Goji berries
• Cantaloupe
• Apricots

Another important source is astaxanthin, known as the "King of Carotenoids."

Also consider eyebright herb, cayenne pepper, red raspberry and bayberry bark for additional benefits, as well as foods high in zinc such as pumpkin seeds, spinach, beans, beef and chicken.

Another important part of clear vision is brain function, so ensure that you eat plenty of healthy brain foods as well like wild-caught salmon, avocados, coconut oil, hemp, walnuts and brazil nuts.

Eye exercises

One of the best ways to do eye exercises is to use the sun as the focal point (do not look at it directly but, rather, around it) during less intense sunlight hours (typically before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m.) in order to strengthen the "oculo-endocrine system."

Quite simply, the key to this therapy is the invisible ultraviolet band, and the retina. While the visible bands of light stimulate the retina's cone and rods that produce vision, the invisible band stimulates the adjacent epithelial cells, which transmit the stimulus as a powerful nerve impulse through the optic nerve directly to the pituitary and pineal glands. This is a powerful healing and strengthening exercise for the eyes.

To put this powerful force to use, try the "sun blinking exercise":

• Look once to the north of the sun (about 15 degrees above it) while blinking the eyes for 3-5 seconds
• Do the same after looking to the east (right), south (below) and west (left) of the sun

Again, do not look directly at the sun, as the as the part of the retina we want to hit with the rays of the sun is on the sides and not the center.

Enjoy your new and improved vision.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.liverdoctor.com

http://www.naturalnews.com

http://www.3fatchicks.com

http://science.naturalnews.com
http://www.naturalnews.com/044533_eyesight_natural_therapy_ocular_health.html

Wednesday 25 February 2015

Video About Ankh Rah

 

Video About Ankh Rah

 
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We care about your health!
Our mission is to make the world a healthier place
Starting with a happier, healthier, stronger, fitter more focused You!!
 
 
 

Tai Chi Vs Boxing


 What would a Tai Chi fighter do against a Boxer?

Tuesday 24 February 2015

Moringa: A superfood packed with nutrients that you must try

 
Moringa Leaf

Did you know that if all the people around the world ate the leaves of this plant, we would not suffer from anemia? I mean Moringa, also known as the miracle tree, a small plant native to India widely used in the rest of Asia and Africa too. Each of the parts of this plant has a unique benefit that makes it essential for good health. This tree can survive even the harshest climates. Some people call it the "tree of life" and when you discover all its benefits, will agree with this nickname.

1. Has countless nutrients.
Studies have shown that just one ounce of this plant contains more vitamin A than carrots, more iron than spinach, more calcium than milk, more potassium than bananas and more vitamin C than oranges. Also contains vitamin B. It is also said to be an excellent source of essential amino acids. Regarding minerals containing calcium, potassium, sulfur, iron, selenium, magnesium, zinc, copper phosphide. Furthermore, it is rich in choline and essential fatty acids. This tree is rich in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and enzymes, call it a it is simply an understatement food. Moringa is a true superfood.

2. It is antibacterial and antifungal.
 The extract from the leaves and seeds of the tree contain a compound that prevents the growth and proliferation of microorganisms such as E. coli, Enterobacter aerogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, the seeds can be used to purify water.

3. Delays aging
. Moringa contains over 36 antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Zeatin also contains a cytokinin that slows the aging process. It is also a powerful antioxidant that suppresses the growth of cancer cells. Moringa contains high amounts of lutein which prevents has macular degeneration and caffeoylquinic acid which is a choleretic and diuretic. It also protects the liver from hepatitis and other diseases.

Some of the other antioxidants in the leaves include rutin, quercetin, xanthines, alpha carotene and kaempferol.

4. Protect the heart. Studies and research have shown that Moringa is very effective in reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. Its reducing effect on blood pressure can be attributed to compounds such as nitrite and glycosides. Even contain a bioactive compound, known as B-sitosterol which maintains cholesterol balance. Beta-sitosterol also prevents prostate enlargement, and contains several anti-inflammatory properties. Reduce LDL and triglycerides.

5. Take care of your liver.
 Moringa leaves contain a compound called quercetin which has been shown reverses liver damage induced by high consumption of foods rich in fat and high protein. Moringa also eliminates the accumulation of fat in the liver and prevent insulin resistance. Containing chlorophyll, detoxifies our body and supports the optimal functioning of our liver.

How do you eat?

The can be eaten raw or you can cook. You can even make tea with leaves. Dried Moringa leaves can be crushed and stored as a spice for years without risking the loss of nutrients. Young green beans of the tree, can be prepared as asparagus, but the most mature pods are harder and must be cooked, and then the inner fiber is extracted. It is recommended to eat raw leaves to get the most nutrients.

Add Comment 
And you, have you ever tried moringa?

About the author
Ingrid is a holistic health coach, personal trainer, motivator fitness, and wellness author. After finding the key to losing 50 pounds in 90 days, she wants to share how she did it With Her free course 9 Simple Secrets I Used to Melt Away 50 Pounds.
http://quemas.mamaslatinas.com/health_fitness/129823/moringa_un_super_alimento_lleno

The Best 8 Types of Honey and Their Medicinal Uses – Can Treat Many Serious Diseases

The following are descriptions of various types of honey and what are the most appropriate, and on page 2 you can read about the benefits of pollen, royal jelly and propolis.
the-best-8-types-of-honey-and-their-medicinal-uses-can-treat-many-serious-diseases
As for quality, we can mention one, almost unknown fact – evidence that consuming real, natural honey “nipps” while it slowly dissolves in the mouth and throat.
This effect creates a toxin which is injected in honey by bees, for protection.
In selecting the proper type of honey for disease prevention and healing is good to consult with an experienced apitherapists scholar of honey bee products.
Acacia honey
Good for those who have digestive problems, it’s soothing and balances the entire body. Due to the high content of fructose, it cannot be taken by diabetics. It is also recommended for children up to three years because it is simple.
Lime honey
It’s antiseptic and soothing. It is used in influenza, colds, bronchitis and respiratory diseases that cause streptococci, staphylococci and other gram-positive bacteria. Promotes sweating and certain idle time in bed is recommended during the treatment.
Forest honey
It contains 13 (or more) times the minerals of flower species. It is especially rich in iron salts, which play an important role in strengthening the blood, oxidation processes and the process of growth, which is particularly important in childhood. It is recommended for anemia, gynecological, respiratory and other diseases.
Chestnut honey
Chestnut honey has a specific and intense aroma and slightly bitter and aromatic taste. It helps with disturbances of the digestive organs (stomach, liver, gallbladder, duodenum).
It is recommended for healing of gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, jaundice, bacteria in the urethra . It boosts the heart muscle. Some research suggests that the chestnut honey one of the best kinds of honey in the world in general. Chestnut honey is suitable for making homemade cakes and gingerbread, just because of his royal flavor.
Sage honey
Sage honey is produced from the flowers of sage, and is collected around the middle of May to mid-June.
Sage grows in areas where the Mediterranean climate, and in Istria on the eastern coast of the peninsula. This honey is one of the best kinds of honey, and is very good for the repair of all types of diseases of the oral cavity and respiratory tract.
It is recommended to people who have problems with runny noses, coughing, sore throat, bronchitis, colds accompanied usually dry and unproductive cough.
Flower honey or meadow
It contains more essential oils and children like to eat it. It’s especially recommended to heart patients, with respiratory illnesses caused by Gram-negative bacteria, in gynecological diseases and avitaminosis.
Bees begin to collect flower honey in the early spring, with plants and trees, such as dandelion, cherry, plum, apple and other meadow and wildflowers. Flower honey tastes exceptionally, and it’s full of vitamins, minerals, trace elements.
Everyone loves flower honey, from newborns to the elderly, due to its specific taste. It strengthens the immune system in the broadest spectrum.
Flower honey is a little more aromatic than acacia and is very gentle to the stomach. It was collected with dozens of species of flowers, so it is recommended in all complaints.
It favors the airways, soothes the stomach, and is suitable for the development of children from an early age.
Sunflower honey
Due to high glucose and other important ingredients, it’s recommended for strengthening the body’s resistance, for people with heart disease and to improve circulation.
Honey from rapeseed
It has excellent quality and has strong antibacterial properties. It’s excellent for the preparations based on royal jelly.
Now here are some useful information about pollen and how to use it…
Pollen is a male sexual part of the flower plants, fine-grained appearance. Each grain is biologically unique and contains everything necessary for life: proteins, amino acids, acids, fats, hormones, ferments, coenzymes, carbohydrates, and the secret of life-molecules of DNA and RNA, which determine the shape and development of living beings.
Why do we use pollen?
  • Pollen positively influences the digestive tract – the rehabilitation of the intestinal flora breaks down the blockage. Visible improvement can be observed within a few days.
  • Pollen increases blood flow to the brain and related improves memory and concentration (especially in school children).
  • The surprising successes have been reported frequently in hair loss. But when hair loss is caused by genetic, pollen will not be able to affect it.
  • Floral powder therapy has good effect on liver function. Particles of pollen improve the important function of detoxifying the liver, thus vitalizing effect on the entire body.
  • Pollen encourages normalization and regulation of blood pressure.
  • In addition to the normal blood flow, consumption of pollen can be seen a good blood circulation in the legs.
  • Pollen has an extremely positive effect on the immunity of the whole organism.
  • Pollen generally works very well on the human metabolism, and its use is recommended in:
  • General fatigue
  • Stress
  • Loss of appetite
  • Liver disease
  • Elevated blood fats
  • Eye diseases
  • Psycho vegetative disturbances
  • Prostate disease
  • Weaknesses potency
  • Climacteric problems
  • Athletes
  • Hard physical labor
  • Older people
  • Pregnant women and nursing mothers
  • Malnourished people and those with reduced appetite
  • Pre and postoperatively
  • Chemotherapy
  • People with allergic problems under the supervision of a doctor
Consumption and preparation of pollen remedy:
In order for our body to accept valuable substances of pollen well, its use is recommended in dairy product – yogurt. Stir pollen in yogurt, or milk or tea approximately 2 hours prior to use. This way, the melt composition of pollen and its constituent substance will become fully available. In this form, prepared pollen is an excellent addition to muesli, but also as a snack.
For regular use, one teaspoon per day is sufficient. Pollen is recommended especially to vegetarians, who do not want to use the proteins of animal origin, athletes or patients (eg. for the wounds to heal, after massive blood loss or from poor nutrition). You should take two teaspoons a day.
- See more at: http://www.healthyfoodhouse.com/the-best-8-types-of-honey-and-their-medicinal-uses-can-treat-many-serious-diseases/#sthash.9iyTLxbS.dpuf

5 Natural Ways to Eliminate Back Pain

back pain relief
According to the World Health Organization, back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide and affects more people than some of the most epidemic diseases like diabetes and even malaria. And yet so little is done to help those who suffer day in and day out from this debilitating pain.

In the Unites States alone, lower back pain accounts for 3.15% of all emergency room visits. So why do so many suffer from this chronic pain?

According to a new study published in the Arthritis Care and Research journal, most of the triggers causing lower back pain are avoidable.
The researchers concluded that carrying out manual tasks with awkward posture increases the risk of sparking acute low back pain by 8 times.

The solution? Strengthen your core so as to improve your posture and minimize strain from improper weight distribution.

Part of strengthening your core involves focusing on your buttocks and deep core to help balance.
Here are 5 core exercises which come from the pilates tradition which will strengthen your posture and reduce your sensitivity to lower back pain:

1. Pelvic Tilting:

  • Lying flat on your back with your hands placed by your side, bend your knees so that your feet are flat on the ground.
  • Tighten your lower abdominals to engage your pelvic floor muscles.
  • You should feel your stomach draw in towards your spine.
  • To help engage these muscles, try reaching your right hand down to touch your heal and repeat on the other side.
  • Maintain deep breathing.

2. Half Bridge:

  • Starting in the same position as the pelvic tilt, on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the ground, slowly lift your hips off the floor.
  • Keeping your head and shoulders flat on the ground, your lower back will fall in line with your thighs and buttocks.
  • You should feel you gluteal and hamstrings tighten.
  • Lower and repeat 10 times.

3. Clam:

  • Lie on your side with your knees slightly bent to maintain balance but keep your head, back and buttocks in line with one another.
  • Keeping your ankles flush with one another, slowly raise your top knee.
  • You should feel the muscles in your buttocks working and not your hip.
  • Repeat 10 times then flip over and do the same for the other side.

4. Hip Twist:

  • Starting again on your back with knees bent and a small arch in your lower back, slowly let one leg fall to the side so your knee is close to or touching the ground.
  • Keeping your other leg up, maintain pressure into the foot to keep stable.
  • Slowly bring your knees back together.
  • Repeat 5 times on each leg.

5. 4 Point Kneel:

  • Starting in a tabletop position with hands and knees on the floor, tuck chin in and keep abdominals tight towards your spine.
  • At the same time, slowly lift your left arm and right leg straight into the air.
  • Do not arch the back and keep your body in a straight line.
  • Alternate each leg and arm, repeating 5 times on each side.
Always remember to go at you own pace and if you do feel an overt amount of pain, stop the exercise and try something else. Slow and steady wins the race against back pain!

Sources:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/289163.php
http://www.ergotherapy.co.za/articles/5-easy-core-exercises-reduce-lower-back-pain

Image Source:

http://www.self-healing.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/back-exercise.jpg

Tropical turmeric weight loss smoothie to banish your belly


Tropical Sunshine Smoothie // edible perspective
I've really been enjoying starting my days with a smoothie lately. It's a great way to make sure that I don't go breakfast-less and that I start off my day with a big dose of good-for-me nutrients. A recent addition to my smoothie rotation has been an incredible spice: turmeric! Amigas, turmeric is a miracle spice. It fights bloat, it's an anti-oxidant, it aids in weight loss, it helps detoxify the liver and I don't know about you, but I don't get enough of it in my diet that's why I've started making this tropical turmeric smoothie.

Turmeric is popular in Indian cuisine and it's quite delicious, but if you are not used to cooking with it aren't quite sure how to incorporate it into your meals to reap its health rewards, "hiding" it in a smoothie is a great way to go.
Of course you could just add a half teaspoon of turmeric into just about any smoothie you make and it would probably be fine, but I've been making mine with frozen mango and pineapple chunks as well as some cinnamon and ginger because I think all the flavors really complement each other. Check it out!
Tropical Turmeric Smoothie
Ingredients:
1 cup almond milk
1 ripe banana
1/2  cup frozen mango chunks
1/2  cup frozen pineapple chunks
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon
Directions:
Put all ingredients in a blender, press vrrroom and mezcla it all up until it is a smooth consistency.
If it's too thick for your liking, you can always add more almond milk. Also, it's a smoothie recipe, not the blueprint for the Sistine Chapel, so feel free to play around with how much of the spices or what kinds of fruits you put in it until you get one that makes you crazy happy

http://quemas.mamaslatinas.com/health_fitness/132175/turmeric_smoothie_weight_bloat_loss