What the Heck is MCT and Should I Take it?

Archives for October 2017

If you're health savvy, you may have heard the word MCT. It has become popular due to its outstanding health benefits.

In fact, some of the remarkable benefits of coconut oil are due to the presence of MCTs in them.

What are MCTs?

MCT is the short form for “Medium Chain Triglycerides,” a type of healthy saturated fat. It has one or more medium chain triglycerides which make them easy to digest in your system.

Research shows that MCTs offer many health benefits. Some of them include appetite control, better mood levels, weight loss and much more.

Unfortunately, we do not get enough of this nutrient in our daily diet. Thanks to the bad rap on saturated fats, many have shunned healthy fats for many decades.

This vital nutrient is missing in our food because many people now mistakenly believe that all saturated fats are dangerous. The result, a steep drop in the intake of healthy fats like MCTs.

5 Reasons Your Body Loves MCT

1. Excellent for weight loss

Your body does not store MCT as fat. Instead, the liver metabolizes it to release energy for daily activities.

Studies show that the body absorbs MCTs faster, and converts them to fuel. An analysis of 13 studies found that MCTs were more effective in reducing body weight and body fat.

2. Appetite control 

MCTs help control appetite, an essential factor in weight loss. Studies show that MCTs have a high satiety value, which keeps hunger away.

3. Good for your heart

MCT oils are anti-inflammatory and antioxidants that promote heart health.

A study reported that MCTs help prevent high cholesterol, hypertension, and abdominal obesity. All these factors lower the risk of heart disease and promote heart health.

4. Better cognitive health

MCTs rapid digestion and satiating effects benefit brain function.

The human brain is about 60% fat.

Including MCT-rich foods help supply ketones, a type of fat. Ketones cross the blood-brain barrier with ease. They are the preferred source of energy for the brain.  Research shows MCTs dictate improved mood levels and clarity of thoughts.

5. Enhances gut health

MCTs are antibacterial and combat harmful bacteria and support gut bacteria.

When used as part of a regular diet, MCTs improve gut health over time. The best thing about MCTs is that they kill harmful bacteria without harming the good.

Also, medium chain fats show stronger antibacterial agents. This effect was in comparison with long chain fats when added to milk and products.

So, if you find a product with MCT as one of the ingredients go for it.

Food sources of MCTs 

  • Grass-fed butter & Cheese
  • Coconut oil
  • Full-fat yogurt

Remember, MCT's are not a miracle on their own. They give the most benefit as part of a healthy diet. If you're serious about losing weight, improving your gut and brain health, make MCT's a part of your diet.

If you're a chocolate lover who wants to get more MCT's in your diet then you'll be excited to know that my raw cacao superfood blend, Cacao Bliss, offers a yummy way to get your daily MCT oils.

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please help me get the word out about MCT by sharing this article and I'd love to hear from you in the comments below. Have you used MCT before?

When you hear the word “cacao”, do you automatically think of a rich, chocolate dessert?

There's no denying cacao is a tasty treat. But when you think of cacao, the first thing that should come to mind is SUPERFOOD. That’s because pure, raw cacao like the kind in my Cacao Bliss is one of the healthiest things you can eat, and seriously skyrockets your health!

It contains flavonoids and antioxidants that give it many long-lasting benefits.

What is Raw Cacao (hint it's NOT Cocoa)

raw cacao seeds plant boosts healthCacao comes from a plant. Though it was once only grown in Central and South America, it's now grown all over the world. Much of it comes from Africa.

A single cacao plant can yield about 80,000 cacao beans each year. These beans are the seeds that are found in the pods of the cacao tree.

Cacao is what chocolate (and Cacao Bliss) is made from. That’s why we tend not to think of it as a health food. It’s also what cocoa is made from.

Most people think that cacao and cocoa are the same thing, but they’re not.

Cocoa is made when the product inside of the cacao beans are crushed and ground into a paste. The paste is then dried into cocoa powder.

Before cacao nibs are processed into cocoa or mixed with sugar and other additives to make candy bars, it is a pure food. Unprocessed cacao like the kind in Cacao Bliss has many different compounds that are good for you.

Top 10 Reasons to Eat Raw Cacao

girl smiling holding hot chocolate raw cacao boosts health1. It makes you happy! Raw cacao like you'll find in Cacao Bliss contains anandamide which is also called the “Bliss Molecule.” This chemical that has the same makeup as THC. It makes you feel happier and boosts your energy levels.

2. Cacao perks you up. It offers theobromine which has the same components as caffeine. It boosts your energy and makes you feel more awake.

3. Fights depression. Cacao has something called phenethylamine in it. Your body turns this compound into the good mood hormone known as serotonin. Some people take prescription drugs to boost serotonin as a way to help with depression. This is part of why I've named my superfood infused raw cacao, Cacao Bliss.

4. It's great for your “ticker.” Cacao’s flavonoids help fight heart disease. It does this by fixing the damage caused by free radicals.

5. Battles high blood pressure. The flavonoids found in cacao help to lower your blood pressure.

6. All natural blood thinner. Cacao contains elements that help to prevent the risk of blood clots.

7. Stabilizes blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that cacao can help people who have diabetes. It does this by lowering blood glucose and boosting insulin function.

8. Cacao is one of the world’s top sources of antioxidants. It helps the body get rid of free radicals that can lead to cancer.

9. Protects your brain health. Cacao has been shown to help boost blood flow to the brain. Scientists believe it may help to fend off the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It may also help heal some of the harm caused by stroke.

10. Improves your memory. People who eat pure raw cacao like the kind in Cacao Bliss score better on memory tests and cognitive tests.

Choose Cacao over Cocoa raw cacao powder boosts health

Unfortunately, most of the incredible nutrients found in cacao get cooked away during the roasting process that brings it to market as cocoa or chocolate. That’s because when cacao beans are heated to a temperature of 120 degrees, the nutrients start evaporating.

The best way to dry cacao beans to make them edible is the traditional method of roasting them in the sun.

I love it so much that I've sourced the purest sun-kissed raw cacao so I can share it with the world! You can try Cacao Bliss by clicking here.

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please share this with your chocolate loving friends and I love reading your comments below. Did you realize raw cacao is a healthier alternative to milk chocolate?

Have you heard of Black Onion Seeds? It’s natural to think that it would come from an onion plant, but they’re the seeds of the black caraway fruit or Nigella. The plant grows in Asia.

The seeds are also called “kalonji”. It's used as a spice in the Middle East, and in Indian food for its unique flavor. Its taste has been described as a combination of onion, oregano, and black pepper.

Black Onion Seeds are used in vegetable dishes and in many flatbreads. You may also have seen it in Armenian string cheese.

While the whole seeds are used as a flavoring, the plant is used to make an oil that is rich in conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and other phytochemicals.

The seeds and the oil have both been used in traditional medicine for years because they offer so many health benefits.

8 Ways Black Onion Seeds Spice Up Your Life

1. Skin Health eczema on hands benefits black onion seed

Black Onion Seeds are great for your skin. They're loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. They boost your immune system and fight back against drying skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

2. Cancer-Fighting

The Black Onion Seeds and the plant’s oil are high in CLA. CLA has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. Eating them has been shown to help those who have colon cancer.

The thymoquinone in the seeds has also been shown to cause cell death in breast cancer cells. This helps slow and stop tumor growth.

3. Lowers Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

Black Onion Seeds are high in dietary fiber. They help lower bad cholesterol and lower blood pressure at the same time.

4. Hair Health long brown hair benefits black onion seed

Black Onion Seeds are a powerful anti-fungal agent. Eating them and using the oil on the scalp will help to nourish your hair follicles and fight hair loss.

Some people even think black onion seed oil will stop your hair from turning grey!

5. Powerful Brain Protection

Black Onion Seeds are high in “thymoquinone,” a phytochemical shown to protect brain tissue. This has a couple of very specific benefits.

If you're exposed to any type of radiation, they offer protection of brain tissue against the damaging rays.

They also are good for people who have Parkinson’s disease, as they help protect neurons from the nerve disorder’s effects. It also has been shown to cause cell death in brain cancer cells. Whoah! That's one powerful seed!

6. Weight Loss Booster tape measure benefits black onion seed

Black Onion Seeds are high in fiber. They help to keep you feeling full so you’re less likely to snack. They also have been shown to boost your metabolism!

7. Heart Health

In addition to lowering bad cholesterol levels, the special type of fatty acids found in Black Onion Seeds reduce triglycerides in the blood. This helps to keep your heart healthy.

8. Blood Sugar Levels

Black Onion Seeds lower fasting glucose. They also reduce insulin resistance. They make a great addition to your diet if you are at risk for diabetes, or have been diagnosed with the condition.

If you want to add black onion seeds to your diet, try toasting them lightly and grinding them. That’s the best way to use them as a spice.

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please help me spread the word about black onion seeds by sharing this with your friends. I welcome your comments below too! Have you heard of the black onion seed before?

Painkillers are used by most of us. Most take either an over-the-counter medication or prescription medication. But, regular use affects your body. It leads to liver failure, intestinal damage, high blood pressure and other side effects.

Yet there are ways to ease the pain with minimal to no side effects. Yes, this is possible with natural alternatives for pain relief instead of regular pills.

You can knock off pain, inflammation and swelling with natural alternatives. It's amazing how simple ingredients from your kitchen can do a neat job of pain relief. I use them too!

8 Natural Painkillers You'll Find in Your Kitchen

1. Turmeric Turmeric on wood painkillers

A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent it is a cure-all for most conditions. It improves circulation and the nutrient curcumin in turmeric is a natural painkiller.

It helps in conditions ranging from diabetic neuropathy to wounds. It's most recommended for pain relief by the U.S Army Institute of Surgical Research.

Curcumin is used in treating burn pains in place of conventional medicines. The anti-inflammatory and healing effects of curcumin have a profound effect in pain relief. Be sure to choose organic turmeric in your smoothies and soup recipes.

2. Cloves

Cloves are the unopened flower bud that comes from an evergreen tree. Ayurveda (an ancient form of medicine) uses cloves for its digestive power and its ability to relieve toothaches.

For toothache relief take a few drops of clove oil on a cotton swab and apply in the pain area.

 

3. Ginger

One of the top benefits of ginger is its anti-inflammatory effect. The active ingredient gingerol in ginger has a direct effect on the pain receptors and eases the pain.

Add ginger to fresh pressed juices or enjoy it as a tea.

4. Garlic Galic cloves painkiller

Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds that help fight inflammation and acts as a pain reducer in arthritis. The combo of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect helps with easing the pain of arthritis.

5. Pineapple

If you feel bloated and heavy, pineapple can relieve those symptoms. The enzyme bromelain in pineapple helps to reduce these symptoms.

It also helps with sprained ankles, arthritis, and joint pain. Bromelain prevents inflammation, improves circulation and eliminates the inflammatory compounds in the blood.

6. Valerian root

Drink a cup of Valerian root for stress and anxiety relief. It helps to relieve menstrual cramp, pain and body aches. It helps suppresses muscle spasms and acts as a muscle relaxer. In a study conducted in 2011, researchers confirmed its calming effect on uterine contractions.

7. Cherries

Cherries are rich in anthocyanins which reduce inflammation. Tart cherries are good for reducing pain and athletes take tart cherry juice to lessen pain.

Research shows that taking tart cherry juice for a week before and during a running event lowers pain. The study found tart cherry reduced muscle damage due to inflammation among runners. They even fight painful gout symptoms.

8. Essential oils essential oil aromatherapy painkiller

Use essential oils like chamomile, lavender or sage to get relief from muscle aches and pain. Aromatherapy is a quick and easy way to get pain relief.

A whiff of pleasant smelling oils may soothe your body, make you relax and relieve pain. Try them to complement the other natural therapies for effective pain relief.

Next time, before you pop a pill for a pain symptom, be sure to try these natural remedies for relief. Help yourself with natural painkillers right in your kitchen cabinet.

Enjoy a side effect free pain relief. Remember, besides pain relief, these natural ingredients offer other health benefits too.

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please share this handy guideline with your loved ones and I love hearing from you in the comments below. Do you have a go-to natural pain reliever?

Menopause is a time of life that some women dread and others embrace.

Many people fear that the change of life will mean hot flashes and weight gain.

That’s not the way it has to be.

If you make a few simple lifestyle changes, you can avoid some of “the change’s” most dreaded impacts.

You might even find that you have more energy than ever before.

7 Hacks to Manage Menopause

1. Eat More Fish 

An important thing to remember during menopause is that the levels of some key hormones that protect you from disease will drop.

One way to make up for their loss is to eat foods that promote good health. Fish is one of those foods.

Try eating a serving of fish or trout at least twice a week. The healthy fats they contain will help fight breast cancer and heart disease.

2. Calcium Up

When menopause comes, calcium levels drop. That puts you at risk for osteoporosis.

Make sure that you are getting plenty of calcium-rich foods like Greek yogurt, broccoli, or sardines.

3. Beat the Bloat

Lots of women experience bloating during menopause. The best way to avoid this is by eating foods that are high in fiber.

Legumes, fruits, and vegetables work best, and will also put you on the right path for weight loss.

4. Kick the Caffeine 

Switch from hot tea or coffee to an iced decaf version. Studies have shown that hot drinks and caffeine can trigger hot flashes.

5. Move Your Body

Exercise is always important, but especially during menopause. Not only does it help reduce some of its worst symptoms and stave off weight gain, it also helps stop muscle and bone loss.

You should try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise.

You should do a combination of cardio to lift your heart rate, and strength training to build muscle and bone. Some good aerobic activities include jogging, walking, biking and swimming.

6. Go Zen 

Many women going through menopause get a big benefit from exploring yoga, tai chi or meditation. Not only does this practice help to counter mood swings, they also help to improve flexibility and strength.

7. Study Supplements

There are some supplements that have been proven very helpful in dealing with menopause symptoms. These include evening primrose oil, black cohosh, dong quai, flax seeds (pancakes anyone?), and vitamins B and E.

There are certain foods that will make menopause miserable too. Enjoy your wise years and avoid those 🙂

Studies have shown that if you view this phase of your life positively you are likely to enjoy it more and have fewer symptoms. Take time to feel good about yourself and all that you have accomplished.

Instead of focusing on the changes in your body, think about the freedom you can now enjoy.  Appreciate the wisdom and friendships that have come to you over the years. Enjoy your time with the people who are important to you.

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please share this with your friends who are going through “the change” and I invite you to comment below. How do you cope with menopause symptoms?

Hey there my fellow fitness lovers! I'm super excited about sharing this next level of fitness with you. It's the Infrared Sauna heat! This is one of the best things you can do to improve your fitness, health, and vitality all in one shot.

try infrared sauna HOTWORX

I've tried it, I love it and want you to benefit from it too! If you're considering taking your fitness to the next level, then this is it. Whether you want to try the sauna for weight loss or relaxation, choose infrared. The benefits are outstanding. I love the HOTWORX brand and here's why you will too!

Infrared Sauna – What is it?

HOTWORX Infrared Workout Sauna uses light to create heat. The traditional sauna uses heat to warm the air, which in turn warms your body. The Infrared sauna heats your body without warming the air around you. The result is that the atmosphere around you is cool which helps those that can't stand high heat.

6 Serious Benefits of HOTWORX Infrared Workout Sauna

1. Lowers chronic pain: The infrared light penetrates the skin and generates heat. The heat reaches the deep tissues and warms the body from the inside-out. A study showed that infrared benefits patients with pain and fatigue. After four weeks with a series of Infra therapy, patients showed lower pain symptoms. The study also reported no side effects after the IR therapy.

danette may working out in hotworx studio2. Burns more calories: When body temperatures increase, the metabolic rate also increases and you burn more calories. The Journal of American Medical Association confirms the same. A 30-minute infrared sauna session can burn up to 600 calories.

A 30-minute infrared sauna session can burn up to 600 calories.

3. Promotes muscle recovery: Infrared sauna can stimulate blood flow, which facilitates muscle recovery. Consistent use of infrared sauna helps lower pain and inflammation that accompanies an intense workout.

4. Keeps your heart healthy: Infrared sauna helps normalize blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Research shows infrared sauna treatments help patients with heart failure and irregular heartbeat. It improves the heart function and heart health.

5. Keeps your skin healthy: Infrared sauna helps remove toxins in the form of sweat. Infrared sessions improve blood circulation, cleanses the pores. It leaves your skin soft, clear and healthier.

6. Helps you relax: Infrared light therapy helps balance the levels of stress hormones and keep you relaxed. The heat from the sauna helps relax muscles, relieve tension and thereby de-stress.

Here's what you can expect in an Infrared session

  • Profuse sweating danette may working out in hotworx studio
  • No pain
  • You will experience heat in the body, but not the surrounding air
  • There are no visible light waves

Keep in mind; you will sweat a lot during the session. So, be sure to drink enough water to make up for the loss of water.

And what's so cool about the one by HOTWORX is that there's enough room for 3 people to fit comfortably inside and still have room to exercise! It even has a television screen built right in so you can follow along to a pilates, yoga flow or H.I.I.T workout.

Now that you have learned some of its benefits, I guess your next question is about the safety!

Is it safe?

Studies have looked at the benefits of infrared saunas in the treatment of health issues. Infrared sauna shows no serious or adverse effects and seems to be safe for the majority. People who do not normally tolerate other sauna treatments are comfortable with the infrared sauna.

The infrared sauna is helpful for those that suffer from achy joints and muscles. The method helps to burn calories without adding too much pressure on the joints. It's a boon to the injured and those that are unable to exercise.

An infrared sauna is a great way to lose weight, relax, and get relief from chronic pain. I recommend Pilates, yoga and other forms of exercise in an infrared sauna for the best results. I am sure you will love HOTWORX Infrared Workout Sauna as much as I did!

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please share this article with your friends and I want to hear from you in the comments below. Have you ever tried Infrared Sauna?

It's pumpkin season and most of you have one on your front porch by now! If you're like most, the first thing you do is scoop out the seeds and throw them away. But wait!!

What if I tell you these seeds can help your hair grow faster, maintain your bone health and much more? Would you still throw them away?!

Yes! These seeds are full of vital nutrients your body needs. Best of all they make a tasty snack.

And if you're concerned that the pumpkin patch you pluck your decorative pumpkin from isn't using organic farming methods then you can find pumpkin seeds available at a lot of grocery stores too.

4 Reasons to Eat Pumpkin Seeds

1. Power Packed Nutrition

An ounce of pumpkin seeds gives you 7 grams of protein. It's also packed with minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc and copper.

By eating an ounce a day, you can meet your daily allowance of these minerals. And getting magnesium and copper is ideal for your bone health too.

2. Good for Your Heart 

Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium. This mineral helps in energy production, nerve health, maintaining blood pressure and much more. It's also vital for the pumping action of your heart muscles.

About 80%eighty percent of the U.S population is low in magnesium levels. 

This can cause heart issues and other problems like migraines. Research says that a good magnesium balance helps lower a lot of health risks. This includes conditions like stroke and heart attack.

3. Healthy blood Cholesterol

Pumpkin seeds are among the third highest in phytosterol. This compound helps to reduce high cholesterol levels in your blood.

Eating foods rich in phytosterols helps to block cholesterol absorption in your body.

These tiny seeds are also among your best source of omega-3 fat, ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). ALA helps lower inflammation, maintain healthy blood cholesterol and improve heart health.

4. Immune Booster

Eating two tablespoons of pumpkin seed butter can help boost your immunity. The seeds are rich in iron, zinc and selenium, which help your immune system to work well.

They also contain a special type of protein called lignans. Lignans, help fight viruses and tiny bacteria to keep you healthy.

4 Easy Ideas to Enjoy Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are versatile and easy to use in most recipes. Here are some quick ways to enjoy them:

  • Sprinkle on top of salads.
  • Toast them to carry as a snack or add to trail mix
  • Soak and grind them to make pumpkin seed butter. Great on toast with a drizzle of honey. Makes a great salad dressing!
  • Add them to your breakfast oatmeal.

Be sure to refrigerate pumpkin seeds to keep the nutrients intact. Sprouted seeds are tasty and make digestion easier. To use them as a spread, soak them and grind into a smooth paste for a delicious spread.

Aren't you glad you saved your pumpkin seeds now?! They aren't the only fruit and veggie scraps you should never throw away either.

You may also be interested in:

Delicious Pumpkin Pie

Flavorful Pumpkin Waffles

Healthy Pumpkin Protein Cookies

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please share this with your Fall loving friends and I invite you to comment below. Do you always save your pumpkin seeds when you carve your jack-o-lantern?