5 Home Remedies To Fight Colds & Flu

Archives for November 2015

Winter is here! That means cold & flu season is here too.

If you find yourself battling a nasty cold you may want to run out to the pharmacy and pick up whatever cold medicine you can find.

That may not be the best approach every time.

You need to remember that conventional medical treatments are not natural for the body. If used often enough, they could even lead to unwanted side effects.

Instead, consider trying these natural home remedies for that sore throat or a runny nose.

Here are a few holistic remedies to consider.

1. Try Herbal Tea With Honey

One of the most important things to do when you’re sick is to keep your fluid intake up.

Most people find they aren't as thirsty when they're sick. If you are suffering from diarrhea or vomiting, you’ll be losing fluids too.

Staying hydrated will help keep your energy up. This helps your body fight off whatever it is that’s invaded your system.

Steer clear of caffeinated beverages however as these will only dehydrate you further.

Instead, consider a herbal tea sweetened with a little honey. The honey can help soothe your throat while the warm herbal tea will help clear up your sinuses, provide hydration, and is caffeine free. 

There are a lot of good juice ‘flu shots' like the one below you should try too!

mini green smoothies

2. Turn On The Humidifier

When you’re ill, breathing can be a real challenge. With a stuffed up nose, this makes it a real challenge to sleep – which is just what you need to start feeling well again.

Get yourself a home humidifier and be sure to use it while ill.

This will add extra moisture to the air, which can help ease your sinus congestion while even calming a sore throat. Both of these will make it easier to fall asleep, getting the rest you need.

3. Heat A Damp Towel

If a headache is what’s got you down, try a warm compress.

Simply soak a towel in some water and then wring out until almost all the water is gone.  Then place in the microwave for 60-90 seconds (depending on the power of your microwave) and once finished, place over your head.

It’ll ease your tension, relax your mind, and help that headache go away. This can also work well for those who are heavily congested as well.

4. Try A Mustard Bath

Another quick home remedy trick to help ease sinus congestion is to try soaking your feet in a mustard bath.

To do this, mix one tablespoon of mustard powder in one liter of hot water.

The mustard will increase blood circulation to the feet. This will help relieve congestion taking place in your head.

5. Power Up With Vitamin C

Finally, if you are starting to feel a cold coming on, combat it with a strong dose of vitamin C.

While vitamin C may not stop the cold from coming on entirely, it can significantly reduce the severity and duration of it.

Try taking 500 mg of vitamin C four to six times a day. Also up your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, which contain natural sources of vitamin C.

Just do keep in mind too much vitamin C can cause diarrhea, so if that starts happening, lower your dose.

So keep these holistic strategies in mind this cold and flu season. If you make use of these, you may be able to stay away from conventional medicine entirely.

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S. Please share this with your friends and I welcome your comments below.

It’s easy to miss what may be one of the most important factors dictating how you feel – your pH balance.

When you eat a traditional westernized diet, one that’s rich in meat sources and grains, you’re going to become far more acidic than the body was designed to be.

This can set you up for many problems including

  • increased chronic pain conditions
  • accelerated aging
  • high blood pressure
  • increased inflammation
  • higher risk for osteoporosis
  • low energy levels
  • as well as a slow digestion process.

The good news is that getting your pH balance back on track and more alkaline isn’t as hard as you may think.

Let’s look at five things you can do today.

1. Have A Lemon Cleanse When You Wake Up

Starting your day off right will set the stage for all to come.

Every morning, kick-start the hydration and alkalization process by drinking a tall glass of lemon water.

While you may think that lemon is very acidic, when it enters the body it actually becomes very alkaline, so this is exactly what you want. It’s a calorie-free refreshing start to any day.

2. Build A Large Greens Salad 

 

Getting more fresh vegetables into your menu is one of the best things you can do to reduce your acidity and balance out the protein that you’re eating.

Prepare a large green salad at the start of your day and then serve it as the day progresses, aiming to finish it by night.

Not only will this have you feeling better, but you’ll easily reach your 5-10 recommended servings a day.

3. Cut Out Refined Sugar

The one type of food that you must get out of your diet immediately if you want to be more alkalinized is refined sugar.

Sugar is going to send insulin levels soaring, mess with your energy, and could even lead to rapid body fat storage.

Not to mention, it tilts you strongly in the acidic direction.  If you have a craving for something sweet, try fruit instead, which actually makes you more alkaline instead.

4. Try Alkalinized Water 

Another way to get more alkaline is to look at the water you’re drinking. While it’s important that you stay hydrated on a daily basis, if you’re typically drinking tap water, this could be the cause of your acidity.

Consider getting an alkaline water stick or pitcher and start using that to create healthier water that will help keep your pH where it needs to be.

5. Get Active

Finally, get up and get moving. If you sit for a large portion of the day, this could also be contributing to your state.

Focus on getting up more frequently.

Exercise can help to remove the acidic waste that your body creates naturally, favoring a more alkaline environment.

Even 5 minutes of brief walking can help here, so don’t think that you need to exercise for an hour to reap benefits.

So keep these five tips in mind. Apply them to your current health program and you’ll be feeling your best in no time.

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S. I hope you will share this with your friends and I always enjoy reading your comments below.

Fear should be the last thing on your mind when you get to a traditional Holiday party.

Maybe you DID just spend that last year getting into the best shape of your life but robbing yourself of your favorite foods will only make you feel deprived.

Being afraid you'll backslide over the Holidays won't do a bit of good either.

You are better served knowing right from wrong, and what food traps lie ahead of you.

Let me show you how to channel that fear into fun.

Here's what you want to AVOID:

1. Filling your plate with fat-free and low-fat fare

I'm increasingly amazed that low-fat/no-fat foods are even still being made. After years of fallacy, the truth is finally coming out that fat is NOT the devil!

In fact, with the exception of trans fat, it is quite beneficial for weight loss, hormone production, skin health and brain function.

Why would you want to eliminate a substance that is so good for you? 

The bottom line is, don’t think that the fat-free cornbread or pumpkin pie that your Aunt Mildred made is going to be doing you any favors.

It may be low in fat, but it is sure to be high in sugar to compensate for lack of flavor.  High blood sugar levels increases insulin. This sets off a chain of events that actually make you store MORE fat.

You are better served eating the regular versions, but keep your portions small.

2. Consuming artificial sweeteners

Now let’s look on the other side of the coin.

Just because something is sugar-free doesn’t mean it’s healthy.

Artificial sweeteners like

  • sucralose
  • acesulfame potassium and
  • aspartame

have zero nutritive value.

With this in mind, be cautious of “sugar-free” desserts and beverages.

It’s true they may have a negligible effect on blood sugar levels; however, anything artificial is not recognized as real food by the body.

Regular consumption can cause a litany of reactions, such as headaches, certain types of cancer and even obesity, according to Dr. Andrew Weil.

When making desserts, use a healthy sweetener like coconut nectar, maple syrup or honey.

 

3. Drinking too many beverages

When you arrive at a party during the holidays, usually the first thing you're offered is a cold beverage.

Regardless if it is beer, wine, soda or egg nog, you are looking at liquid calories that can add up. Before dinner is even served, you can slug down three or four drinks which can set you off course in a hurry.

If you want to be sociable, fix yourself a glass of Kombucha or a Cranberry Fat-Flush Drink.

If you must go the alcoholic route, sip on a glass of organic red wine, which has no sulfites. Red wine is also high in resveratrol—a powerful antioxidant.

4. Preparing unhealthy versions of healthy foods

Sweet potatoes might be high in

  • vitamin A
  • fiber and
  • potassium

but something magical happens when they are drenched in brown sugar, marshmallow fluff and white flour.

You’ve just created a recipe of diet destruction.

Sure it might taste good, but it is high in processed carbs and sugar, nullifying its health benefits.  Aim for healthier preparations of all your dishes.

Sweet potatoes are called sweet potatoes for a reason. They are already naturally sweet.

A little grass fed butter and cinnamon go a long way in flavoring sweet potatoes, yams and carrots.

At the end of the day, there is no need to abstain from your holiday favorites.

Make yourself a sample platter of all the dishes you enjoy, including the desserts. Chew your food slowly and enjoy the flavor.

Now go off and enjoy your holidays with confidence, happiness and courage.

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S.  Please share this with your friends and I welcome your comments below.

Everyone has that certain chocolate lover on their gift list! I have just the thing.

Make these chocolate-y treats that are healthier than store bought but every bit as delicious. They're perfect for home made gift baskets and let's face it, everyone likes chocolate!

The best part is they'll be made with love. Most of these are no bake too.

Any or all of these 3 recipes are sure to satisfy the chocoholics in your life this Holiday Season!

1. Healthy Peanut Butter Cups

This recipe for Healthy Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups is a classic favorite that everyone loves! You won't miss the orange wrapper or the amazing flavor.

peanut butter cups

2. Guilt Free Chocolate Truffles

These delicious Guilt-Free Chocolate Truffles are sure to satisfy the most discerning chocolate lovers on your list! They are rich and creamy and yes, chocolate.


chocolate truffles

3. Melt In Your Mouth Guilt-Free Brownies

My Melt In Your Mouth Guilt-Free Brownies live up to their name! So easy to make and no one will ever suspect they're good for you.

brownies with mint

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S. Please share these recipes with your friends and I always love reading your comments below.

No Thanksgiving menu is complete without the cranberry sauce!

Making your own cranberry sauce is almost as easy as opening a can.

The good news is yours will be free from chemicals and extra sugar.

Seriously, it's so easy and unlike the canned stuff, you will be able to actually see the cranberries. And oh, what a difference in flavor!

 

Clean Eating Cranberry Sauce

 

INGREDIENTS:

  • 12-ounce bag fresh cranberries (approx. 3 1/4 cups)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 1 cup distilled water

 

DIRECTIONS:

1. Put everything in a pot and cook over medium-high heat for 30 to 45 minutes.

2. When most of the liquid is cooked out, turn down the stove to simmer.  The longer you let this simmer, the thicker the sauce will get.

*Don’t let all the liquid cook out or it will burn.

4. Stir more frequently near the end.

5. Allow cooling before serving. 

 

Honey-300

 

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S. Please share this recipe with your friends and I always enjoy reading your comments below.

 

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Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce

 

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to

  • get an energy boost
  • increase stamina
  • balance hormones  and
  • sexual function on your way to better health and vitality

Read on….

Maca, native to the Andes Mountains in Peru, is regarded as a superfood of one of the oldest civilizations  in the world: the Incas.

The indigenous Peruvians have long considered this tuber (a root plant like a  potato) to be beneficial for energy, endurance and hormone health.

It was traditionally harvested by Andean farmers, and often exchanged for staples like rice, corn and quinoa. And, there’s even some speculation that maca, being a central part of the diet of the Incans.

It even played a part in providing the strength to the ancient people who built Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders Of The World.

 


Considering that they had to hoist 20-ton rocks up those steep mountains and put them into place as temple walls, that’s saying a lot!

So what is maca exactly?

This root plant actually looks like a robust radish, but it has a nutty, earthy flavor that can be added to all sorts of foods and beverages.

This makes it quite simple to add to your diet. In fact, it’s a perfect complement to a smoothie – or for blending in your morning coffee.

Many people report a subtle, yet noticeable energy boost not long after consuming it.

maca-600

There have been some limited studies to back up these claims too. Some randomized clinical trials have shown it not only has favorable effects on energy, but on mood as well.

Researchers have also found that maca may help decrease anxiety and improve sexual desire.

That sure is a lot of benefits from one odd looking tuber!

The majority of research to date focused on maca has been related to hormone health and sexual function.

Studies have shown, and many women testify, that it can be especially effective at fighting PMS and menopause symptoms.


It may also help to reduce cramps, hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings. Maca is widely used for supporting healthy sexual function in women as well as men.

It boosts the libido and increases endurance as well as fertility.  Many studies have discovered that it may increase sperm count and sperm quality.

Maca is a nutrition powerhouse too!

A 100 gram serving contains:

♦ 14 grams of protein

♦ 7 grams of fiber

♦ 475% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C

♦ 25% of your daily calcium requirements

♦ 57% of the recommended amount for vitamin B6 and

♦ 82% for iron.

It almost sounds too good to be true, right? Fortunately it’s not!

There are no serious known side effects of maca.

Like any other supplement, you don’t want to take it in large amounts. When you first start adding it to your diet, begin with a small amount – about ½ teaspoon, working up to one to two teaspoons per day.

It should go without saying that you should also balance your use of superfoods like maca with a healthy diet.  Include plenty of whole foods like fruits and veggies, nuts and seeds.

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S. Please share this info. with your loved ones and I always love reading your comments below.

You know that what you eat affects your health, but have you ever considered that diet can:

  • worsen PMS symptoms
  • increase or decrease your chances of getting pregnant
  •  and yes, even affect sexual function

Nutrition plays a powerful role in just about every bodily function. It makes sense to pay close attention to your diet no matter what your goal. Maybe you're

  • trying to get pregnant
  • want to enjoy a healthy, active sex life or
  • just want plenty of energy to get through the day.

First, we’ll start with what you shouldn’t be consuming.

Soda.

Hopefully, you’re well aware by now of how damaging soda can be to your health.

It’s bad for  your waistline, your teeth and just about everything else.

Research out of Denmark found that men  who drink at least a quart of coke a day have sperm counts that are almost 30% lower than men who don’t.

This study suggested that it was the caffeine in cola that hindered sperm. Yet, obstetrician Niels  Lauersen says the “real culprit” is likely  the high-fructose corn syrup.

He notes, “…studies show too much sugar can lead to insulin resistance, which disrupts fertility. Second, powerful pesticides used in America’s cornfields—including Atrazine—have been shown in studies to be  endocrine disrupters.  Male corn farmers who regularly work with Atrazine are found to have lower sperm counts.”

Women aren’t in the clear when it comes to soda either.

A Danish study conducted on women, revealed that it was sugar sweetened sodas that caused infertility- not caffeine.

Aside from sugar, researchers feel chemical additives or contaminants like bisphenol A may have an adverse effect.

Both men’s and women’s bodies are adverse to processed foods. That includes the reproductive system.

foods-for-sex-600

Trans fat is present in many processed and fast foods.

This can contribute to infertility.

Research conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that men who had high concentrations of trans fats in their semen had 96% fewer sperm as compared to those with low concentrations of this potentially harmful substance.

In other words, stay away from packaged, processed foods and places like McDonald’s. Focus on natural foods instead!

And here's what you should be eating

Even if you’re not trying to have a baby, sexual health is an important part of what we are. If the  body isn’t functioning as it should, it can have a significant negative effect on your sex drive.

Fueling your body with nutritious foods puts you on the best path to great sex.

There are some that are a bit better than others at boosting sex drive.

According to Cynthia Sass, RD, “The link between food and sex drive isn’t just wishful thinking. Studies show that certain foods or nutrients do play a role in  boosting libido and supporting a healthy sex life.”

1. Strawberries:

Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants that benefit the heart and arteries. This promotes good circulation – essential for sexual function in men and women.

They’re also rich in vitamin C which has been linked to higher sperm counts in men.

2. Avocados:

This superfruit can help promote better blood flow which helps get things going when you’re in the sack .

It’s rich in vitamin E, potassium and B6 that may help prevent or delay heart disease too. Men who have heart disease are said to be twice as likely to have erectile dysfunction.

3. Almonds:

These tasty nuts are packed with libido-benefiting properties.

They’re a rich source of  zinc which is essential to testosterone production.  This hormone is a huge factor of sex drive in both men and women.

4. Sweet potatoes:

Sweet potatoes contain lots of potassium which is known to help battle against high blood pressure. High blood pressure is linked to a higher risk of erectile dysfunction.

Research also suggests that the high beta-carotene content of sweet potatoes may benefit people with infertility issues.

5. Watermelon:

One study out of Texas A&M found that watermelon may have a “Viagra-like effect.

Its lycopene, citrullilne and beta-carotene content is believed to help relax blood vessels, which offers a natural enhancement to sex drive.

Are you seeing a pattern here?  If you answered, “Yes, whole, natural foods,” you’re right.

Foods that haven’t been altered by any type of chemical process and come from the earth, are the most beneficial for good reproductive and sexual health.

And don’t forget to spice things up – not just in the bedroom, but in your meals!

Adding spices,like curry, cumin and cayenne pepper can provide an instant boost to blood flow. That can rev things up when it’s time for intimacy.

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S. Please share this information with your friends and I always love to read your comments below.

When it comes to greens, can you really go wrong?

Eating a diet rich in greens is one of the best things you can do for your health – of course, you already knew that, right?

But what you may not know, is which of those green veggies offer the most powerful punch when it comes to nutrition.

Odds are, the first thing that comes to mind is kale.

And while you’re right in that it’s certainly a “superfood,” it still doesn't top the list for most nutritious.

You might be surprised to learn that the Centers for Disease Control actually ranked it as the 15th healthiest on a list of 47 “powerhouse fruits and vegetables.”

While kale certainly deserves its place in the spotlight – packed with vitamins A, B6, C and K, along with calcium folate and potassium – there are many other greens that are even better.

Which means that eating kale is still a great idea, but you may want to add some of these even more nutritious greens on your grocery list.

1. Watercress

Watercress actually tops the list when it comes to nutrition density. It scores a perfect 100!

That means you get 100% of essential vitamins and minerals from just one 100-gram serving (about 3 cups, chopped).

While many people simply use it as a garnish, you might want to consider adding it to your salad or tossing a handful into your smoothie.

This mild-tasting green contains an incredible

  • 312% of the daily recommended dose of vitamin K per 100 grams
  • more vitamin C than oranges
  • four times more beta-carotene and vitamin A than apples, tomatoes and broccoli.

It’s great for your skin, helping to keep it dewy and youthful looking, and is the richest dietary source of phenylethyl isothiocyanate, a compound that’s been found to help fight cancer, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

2. Chinese cabbage

This Asian green was found to be the second most nutritious in the 2014 CDC report.

Chinese cabbage, sometimes referred to as Napa cabbage, is rich in calcium and iron.

Even more amazing is its ability, similar to other cruciferous vegetables, to “turn off” inflammation markers that are believed to contribute to heart disease.

Chinese cabbage is commonly used in coleslaw and it’s also great to use in a stir fry.

greens-fresh-600

3. Chard

Chard comes in at a powerful No. 3 on the list.

It contains a whopping 13 different polyphenol antioxidants!

This includes anthocyanins, which are anti-inflammatory substances that have been found to lower insulin resistance and improve the regulation of glucose in the blood.

Yes, it’s equipped to battle type 2 diabetes – a common and increasingly prevalent illness that is largely preventable through proper diet.

Saute it, braise it, or even eat it raw. Its hearty leaves tend to hold up well without wilting in salads.

4. Beet Greens

Many people just throw out beet greens, but that’s a shame, because they’re loaded with fiber – nearly 5 grams – plus they look gorgeous in a salad!

You can also use them in a stir fry or toss them in a smoothie.

5. Spinach

Spinach is renowned for its iron content – one of the reason’s Popeye managed to build such strong muscles.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, a 180 gram serving provides 6.43 mg of the “muscle mineral.”

Spinach may even help with weight loss too!

A study out of Lund University in Sweden discovered that the compounds in its leaf membranes known as thylakoids was able to stave off cravings and promote weight loss.

You can:

  • Boil it
  • use it as a base for a salad
  • boost your smoothie’s nutritional value – with its mild flavor, you won’t even notice it’s there.

Try changing things up by adding more of these fabulous greens to your diet. You'll be on your way to better health and a fitter you!

Yours in Health,

Danette

P.S. Please share this list with your friends and I welcome your feedback below.

‘Tis the Season to eat cookies and for many that mean family baking parties and cookie exchanges.But what if you're minding your healthy lifestyle and don't want to blow the progress you've accomplished?

 

Watching your waist should NEVER hold you back from doing the things you love most! In fact, it should do exactly the opposite, empower you to live life out loud. 

Here are 5 of my favorite cookie recipes that you'll be proud to show up with.  No one will have any clue they are actually ‘good for you.

 

1. Dainty Meringue Cloud Cookies – Dainty Meringue Cloud Cookies are a delight to the senses and a breeze to whip up. They look like tiny clouds floating in your cookie tin and literally melt in your mouth.

 

2. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Balls – Deck the halls with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Ball They are protein-packed but no one will ever guess it.

 

3. Healthy Pumpkin Protein Cookies – No holiday baking is complete without something pumpkin! My Healthy Pumpkin Protein Cookies stand up to the occasion. They're super filling, flavorful and taste like dessert but really, you could eat these for breakfast they're so good for you.

 

4. Blissfully Delicious Biscotti – Blissfully Delicious Biscotti live up to their name. They are perfect for the tea or coffee lover on your list and everyone will think you got the recipe from a popular coffee shop.

 

5. Heavenly Coconut Bliss Balls – Heavenly for no good reason! These are one of my most popular recipes and many compare them to eating candy.

 

These are all ideal for including in a Holiday gift basket of homemade goodies. You'll feel good knowing you are giving the gift of love through good health.

 

Wishing You and Yours a Happy, Healthy Holiday Season,

 

Danette

 

P.S. Please feel free to share these recipes with your loved ones and I always love reading your comments below.

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