Foods High In Sodium (Salt)

Sneaky Sodium Bombs
Americans love sodium chloride, also known as common table salt — and they consume far too much. Unfortunately for savory-food fans, a diet high in sodium can wreak havoc on your health. According to the Harvard School of Public Health excess sodium increases your blood volume and with it, the strain on your heart and blood vessels. So how much sodium can you safely eat each day? The latest dietary guidelines recommend keeping sodium levels below 2,300 milligrams, or just 1 teaspoon, per day. And the American Heart Association (AHA) has an even lower threshold, encouraging people to keep their intake below 1,500 mg.While most people already know it's best to steer clear of high-salt foods like movie-theater popcorn and French fries, you also need to be on the lookout for less obvious foods that are loaded with sodium. From canned veggies to bread, here are more salt mines to beware of.


1.  Deli Meats

"Most people know better than to shake table salt all over their food, but there are plenty of hidden sources of sodium in our diets," says Lanah J. Brennan, RD. "Sliced deli meats and hot dogs are packed with sodium." One hot dog can contain up to 700 mg of sodium, while just one slice of regular deli ham can have over 300 mg. "Choose fresh meats or fish instead, and try making an extra serving at dinner and using the rest to make your lunch the next day," she advises.

2.  Breakfast Cereals

The average American consumes more than 3,000 mg of sodium per day, but your body only needs about 500 mg, or less than one-quarter teaspoon. Cereals and other processed foods account for a large majorityof our sodium intake. One cup of cornflakes can have more than 200 mg of sodium per serving, which can add up quickly if you aren't measuring portion sizes. And other processed breakfast foods are even worse: "Biscuit and pancake mixes can have up to 800 mg of sodium per serving,” says Brennan. “Instead, try making your own mixes from scratch using low-sodium baking powder and baking soda."

3. Vegetable Juice
Even a healthy-sounding option like vegetable juice can be high in salt. That's why it is important to read labels closely. Sodium content is listed per serving size; to be considered a low-sodium serving, it should read 140 mg or less. Even a can of tomato juice can be a mini-sodium bomb at up to 700 mg per 8-ounce serving. Your best bet is to squeeze your own fresh vegetable juice — a small tomato has only 11 mg of sodium.


4. Canned Soups and Vegetables

Anything in a can could be a sodium bomb. "Check all those can labels and choose products with less sodium per serving," warns Brennan. Some canned soups may contain up to 1,300 mg of sodium. On the other hand, you can make your own soup using low-sodium broth and fresh ingredients. To lower sodium intake, buy your vegetables fresh instead of from a can, and be sure to rinse all canned veggies to remove excess sodium before eating. A half-cup of freshly cooked carrots has only 45 mg of sodium and a cup of green beans has just 1 mg.


5. Canned Soups and Vegetables

Anything in a can could be a sodium bomb. "Check all those can labels and choose products with less sodium per serving," warns Brennan. Some canned soups may contain up to 1,300 mg of sodium. On the other hand, you can make your own soup using low-sodium broth and fresh ingredients. To lower sodium intake, buy your vegetables fresh instead of from a can, and be sure to rinse all canned veggies to remove excess sodium before eating. A half-cup of freshly cooked carrots has only 45 mg of sodium and a cup of green beans has just 1 mg.


6. Flavor Packets and Condiments
Instead of using the salty flavor packets that come in boxes of macaroni and rice dishes, make your own flavorings with fresh ingredients. By using fresh herbs and spices you can infuse plenty of flavor into your dishes without any additional sodium. Consider seasoning with lemon juice, ground pepper, cumin, garlic, onion powder, and fresh herbs.


7. Frozen Meals

The frozen foods section of your grocery store can be another hiding place for salt. Frozen meals like pizza or meatloaf dinners might contain up to 1,800 mg of sodium — enough to put you over the AHA's daily limit in just one meal. Excess salt causes your body to retain fluid, which will not only leaving you feeling bloated, but can also lead to high blood pressure. Look for low-sodium options or, better yet, cook your own meals from scratch.

8. Spaghetti Sauce
Spaghetti may make a frequent appearance in your dinner rotation, but you might want to rethink how you prepare the dish if you are worried about your sodium intake. One cup of spaghetti sauce can have a sodium content of 1,000 mg. If you're a fan of meat sauce you then have to factor in additional sodium for sausage or meatballs. As an alternative, a low-sodium pasta sauce with no salt added can be as low as 100 mg of sodium per cup, or make your own spaghetti sauce from ripe plum tomatoes and fresh basil and garlic. You can also toss spaghetti with fresh veggies and olive oil for a healthy, no-sauce dish.


9. Bread and Tortillas

When it comes to breads, rolls, and tortillas, once again, you need to read the labels carefully. Don't assume that all grains are the same. One 6-inch flour tortilla can contain more than 200 mg of sodium, and that number jumps to over 500 mg for a 10-inch tortilla. Instead, choose plain corn tortillas, which contain just 11 mg of sodium for each 6-inch round. And if you're grilling this summer, a hamburger bun can add an additional 250 mg of sodium to your meal. Instead, try swapping in a lettuce wrap or Portobello mushroom bun for added nutrients and flavor, without any extra sodium.


10.  Dairy Products

Dairy is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, but some products may not be a smart choice when it comes to managing high blood pressure. Some dairy foods like cottage cheese, buttermilk, and processed cheeses can be high in salt. "Cheeses, especially processed cheese like American cheese, can contain up to 400 mg of sodium per ounce," says Brennan. For a lower-sodium option, choose a fresh mozzarella at 175 mg of sodium per ounce or Swiss cheese at less than 60 mg per ounce.

11. Salty Seafood

Seafood is a great addition to a heart-healthy diet — prepared in a healthy way, seafood can help lower cholesterol, which in turn helps lower blood pressure. But you need to choose your seafood wisely, as options like shellfish and canned tuna fish are high in salt. Three ounces of canned tuna has 300 mg of sodium, and four large shrimp have 200 mg. Better seafood choices include fresh tuna, salmon, halibut, and haddock.Before putting any food in your grocery cart, follow this simple rule of thumb: "The bottom line on hidden food sources of sodium is to check your labels and choose products with less than 140 mg per serving," says Brennan.


http://www.everydayhealth.com/heart-health-pictures/10-sneaky-sodium-bombs.aspx?pos=1&xid=nl_EverydayHealthDietandNutrition_20170512

Sinus Infection

Kill Sinus Infection Within Minutes, With What You Have In Your Kitchen!

November 3, 2016

A sinus infection is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses that in many cases lead to persistent headaches, fevers and even facial pains. Fortunately, there are many natural remedies that are effective at cleaning the sinuses and killing the bacteria and viruses responsible for these health problems.

An acute sinusitis is a sinus infection that can last up to four weeks. While a chronic sinusitis can last 12 weeks or longer if left untreated.

Infections of the sinuses—the hollow air spaces within the bones in the cheek bones, forehead and between the eyes—are usually caused by either viruses or bacteria. They cause thick mucus blockage and painful or extreme discomfort in these cavities.

Prescribed antibiotics are not the best remedy for sinusitis as they can cause a lot of dangerous side effects. Your body should be given the right healing food to enable it to cure itself. In any case, antibiotics are not helpful if your sinusitis is caused by a virus.

How It Works

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has many practical uses. It is probably one of the top natural remedies for many ailments.

It contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and malic acids that are beneficial for killing bacteria. It works by binding to pathogens and help the body get rid of them more effectively. It is also effective for fighting viral, fungal and Candida infections.

Look for raw, unfiltered, unpasteurized, organic apple cider vinegar to get the medicinal benefits. How to tell the genuine and “real” apple cider vinegar? The liquid is usually “murky”, not clear, and you can see sediment pieces at the bottom of the bottle—that is the “mother”. If unsure, always buy only Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar.
When taken orally, ACV breaks up mucus and clear airways, while its antibacterial properties kill the infection-causing bacteria.
When mucus and nasal congestion is broken down, ACV delivers its rich nutrients to the body to support and strengthen the immune system, preventing the infection from getting worse.
Although acidic, ACV has all the necessary electrolytes to balance the body’s pH levels and effectively reduces body acidity. Harmful microbes (bacteria or viruses) love an acidic environment and by alkalizing the body it will stop the disease-causing microbes from multiplying. This is why consuming 1-2 tablespoons of ACV every day keeps the viruses away!

Cayenne Pepper

The active component of cayenne pepper is a compound in its fruit called capsaicin that gives the pepper its hot fiery taste. Capsaicin has long been used as a painkiller and for reducing nasal congestion.
There are a few ways you can take pepper to help clear a sinus infection. You can …

• Use a capsaicin nasal spray
• Add ½ teaspoon in a cup of hot water and drink for several days till you recover
• Sniffing a small amount on a spoon to clear airways

Cayenne pepper works because when ingested, it helps to dilate vessels and help to break down mucus for draining. At the same time, this substance lessens your facial pain, reduces inflammation, stimulates circulation and acts as an antibacterial agent. All of these—and many more benefits of cayenne pepper—are helpful in preventing and relieving the symptoms of sinusitis.

 

Apple Cider Vinegar Brew For Sinuses

Ingredients

• ½ cup warm water (not hot)
• ¼ cup Bragg apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon raw honey (or manuka honey)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon wedge

Directions

• Mix all these ingredients in a glass.
• Stir well and sip the mixture warm until the condition subsides.
• You may also use this mixture (without honey) to gargle to speed up your recovery.

http://juicing-for-health.com/kill-sinus-infection-20-seconds.html
 

Blood Types

All people belong to some of the blood types, A, B, AB, or O which is determined from birth. Experts claim that every blood type has its own properties, shared by its members.  This is a review of the most important characteristics of blood types.
Blood type  and offspring
about 85% of people are Rh positive. Yet, if the woman is Rh negative and the man who she conceives with is Rh positive, there is a n increased risk that their child will develop some health issue.
Depending on the health issue or condition, every single blood type can be less or more susceptible to it so you should find out your own risks and try to reduce them.
Blood type and nutrition
You should know your blood type in order to know the foods which are beneficial for your health, and which ones to avoid. Therefore, blood type A individuals should focus on eating more vegetables.
For the people with blood type O is recommended consume more proteins in the form of fish and meat, and the ones with AB blood type should focus on lean meat and seafood. Finally, those ones who belong to the type B should consume more red meat.
Blood antigens
Blood antigens can be present in the blood, digestive tract, lungs, and nostrils, in the mouth and the colon.
Blood type and stress
Individuals with blood type O need more time to relax after a stressful situation than others.
Blood type and weight problems
The blood type can also determine if one will have a belly fat or not, as blood type, 0 people are more susceptible to it, and with blood type A do not suffer from such issues in general.
Blood type and pregnancy
The women who belong to the blood type AB conceive much easier than others, as they have a reduced production of follicle- stimulating hormone.
Blood type and emergencies
In case you ever need a blood transfusion, you should have in mind that people with O RH negative are universal donors and people with blood type AB are universal recipients so you need to know this to save the valuable time in emergency cases.
Source: thehealthguide.org
http://www.healthyfoodhouse.com/know-10-things-blood-type/?utm_source=Shared1&utm_medium=Shared1&utm_campaign=Shared1

Eating Oatmeal

The breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it prepares the body for the following daily activities, stimulating proper digestion, and providing the important nutrients and body energy.
However, if you choose to start your day with oatmeal, you will definitely gain numerous health benefits!
Due to its rich nutritional profile, it has been consumed for more than 2 thousand years, and its medicinal properties have been of great help in the treatment of nerve issues, intestinal problems, skin conditions, and other ailments.
A small serving of this full grain will provide 13gr of protein and sufficient amounts of manganese for the entire day. It is also rich in antioxidants, phytic acid, selenium, phenolic acid, vitamin E, to cotrienols, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin B1, biotin, Molybdenum.
This is what will happen to your body if you consume oatmeal every morning on a daily basis:
It is a great source of energy and fiber, and it will also boost digestion. The low-glycemic index will provide enough body energy but will help you prevent sugar drops, as it will regulate insulin use and reduce the sugar cravings.
If you have oatmeal for breakfast, you can effectively reduce the calorie intake by up to 81%, and it will help you avoid overeating during the rest of the day.


Additionally, if you consume oatmeal for breakfast, due to its satiating properties, you will successfully prevent weight gain and obesity.
These are some other health benefits of oatmeal:

• Whole grains prevent childhood asthma
• Improves immune response
• It is high in fiber which prevents breasts cancer
• Reduces cholesterol
• Lowers the risk of heart failure
• Its regular use can prevent gout
• It is a completely safe grain alternative for people suffering from celiac disease or gluten intolerance
• Regulates blood sugar levels and lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes
• Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases
• Supports longevity

Therefore, oats are an excellent choice for breakfast. However, it is always better to choose the less processed kinds. We recommend that beginners start with steel-cut oats, and add them to your favorite smoothies, yogurts, cookies, of muffins.
Here are some important facts about oat processing:
1.Instant oatmeal
They have been partially cooked before being rolled thinly.
2. Old-fashioned oats
Steaming and rolling have resulted into the flat shape of these oats.
3.Oat groats
These unrefined kernels are great for stuffing or in your morning smoothie.
4.Quick –cooking oats
Their process of preparation is the same like in the case of the old-fashioned oats, but these oats are cut before rolling.
5.Oat bran
Oat bran actually involves only the outer part of the oat grain, which is located beneath the hull.
6.Steel-cut oats
The grains are being placed between running steel blades, and they have dense and chewy texture.
Yet, remember that you can replace any meal with oatmeal and enjoy its benefits. You can choose your favorite combinations and stay healthy in a delicious way!
Sources and References:
www.powerofpositivity.com — Original Article Source
www.homehealthyrecipes.comsupertastyrecipes.com
www.fhfn.org
Featured image source: www.powerofpositivity.com

18 Foods to Clear Your Arteries

and Protect You from Heart Attacks

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world. Clogged arteries pose the greatest risk of heart attack and stroke, by restricting  the blood flow throughout the body. Stress, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diet are some of the major causes for the increased number of heart attacks.

1. Salmon

This fish is loaded with healthy fatty acids which help prevent and reduce triglyceride, cholesterol, and inflammation. Other healthy fish you can consume are tuna, herring, and mackerel.

2. Cheese

You have probably heard that cheese is not so good when it comes to cholesterol levels, but moderate consumption does help reduce the levels of cholesterol, and blood pressure.

3. Olive Oil

Greeks and Italians have long used olive oil as their secret ingredient to optimal health. The high amount of healthy fats present in cold-pressed olive oil help reduce cholesterol. Therefore, this oil as well reduces the risk of heart attack by 41%.
4. Green Tea
The catechins present in green tea provide calming and energizing effects. These antioxidants improve the metabolism and reduce the levels of cholesterol. Drink one or two cups of green tea a day for optimal results.

5. Asparagus

When it comes to fighting high cholesterol levels, asparagus is one of the best allies you can find. Some of the compounds it contains reduce inflammation, and prevent blocked veins. Asparagus is quite versatile so you can use it as both, main dish or side dish to noodles and potatoes.

6.Broccoli

This vegetable is packed with vitamin K, and it’s known for its ability to protect from calcium buildup in arteries. It helps reduce and maintain healthy levels of cholesterol and blood pressure. Broccoli will give a nutrient boost to any dish, and you can also consume it as a snack.

7. Spinach

Spinach is great for building muscles, and also for cleansing arteries and reducing blood pressure. Even though it is thought that it loses most of its nutrients when cooked, spinach still contains high significant amounts of potassium and folic acid, both of which promote healthy muscle tissues and lower the risk of heart attack.

8. Turmeric

Curcumin is the active compound of turmeric which is responsible for most of its healing properties and health benefits. For example, it helps prevent overactive fat storage, and reduce inflammation. You can add it to various dishes, or take it as tea.

9. Seaweed

Seaweed is a nutritional powerhouse containing antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, proteins, etc. If you regularly consume seaweed, it will help widen your blood vessels, promoting your circulation and regulating your blood pressure levels. Eating seaweed on a daily basis can reduce your choletserol by 15%.

10. Whole Grain

The fiber content in whole grain flour prevents high cholesterol levels, due to its ability to bind with cholesterol preventing it from building up in arteries. Another ability of foods high in whole grain is to break down the cholesterol.

11. Avocado

This well-known healthy food provides plethora of health benefits thanks to its robust nutritional profile. The fats in avocados balance the levels of good and bad cholesterol, keeping the arteries clean. You can use it as a bread spread, or add it in salads or juices.

12. Pomegranate

Pomegranates contain phytochemicals which promote production of nitric oxide – beneficial for blood circulation. Consume this healthy fruit as a juice, or combine it in various salads.

13. Cranberries

Cranberries are loaded with potassium, thanks to which they raise the good cholesterol levels, and reduce the bad, LDL cholesterol. You can reduce the risk of heart attack by 40% if you drink just 2 glasses of cranberry juice a day.

14. Orange Juice

The abundance of antioxidants present in orange juice reduce high blood pressure, and promote healthy blood vessels. Drink just 2 glasses of fresh orange juice daily to get the recommended daily amount of vitamin C, and supply your body with the rest of the needed minerals and vitamins.

15. Persimmon Fruit

This sweet fruit is high in healthy sterols and fiber, which help reduce the bad cholesterol levels. Persimmon fruit goes well with cereals or salads.

16. Watermelon

Watermelon encourages the nitric oxide production and widens the blood vessels. Besides being the perfect snack for hot, summer days, watermelon provides many health benefits as well.

17. Nuts

The abundance of unsaturated and omega-3 fats in nuts are good for the memory, joints, and cholesterol. Almonds and walnuts are one of the best sources of healthy fats, so make sure you consume a handful of these daily.

18. Coffee

According to studies, consuming two to four cups of coffee a day reduces the risk of heart attack by 20%. On the other hand, excess caffeine can do more harm than good, such as causing stomach pains.


https://www.healthandlovepage.com/foods-to-clear-arteries-prevent-heart-attacks/?c=HLP&facebook_ads=boost

Chocolate Cake With Avocado

How to Make Chocolate Cake With Avocado Instead of Eggs and Butter
Ingredients:
For the cake:
As soon as you try this tasty vegan chocolate cake, you will never want the try another one again!


It is light, with a silky smooth frosting, and rich in chocolate and healthy fats. When it comes to avocados, you have probably heard about their amazing health benefits, but we can say a few words once more:
These fruits have an impressive nutritional value, as they are abundant in minerals and vitamins, including:

• Vitamin C
• Calcium
• Magnesium
• Sodium
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin B1
• Vitamin B2
• Vitamin B3
• Vitamin B5
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B9
• Vitamin E
• Phosphorus
• Iron
• Zinc
• Manganese

An interesting fact is that avocados are even richer in potassium than bananas, having: 14% potassium

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed until smooth
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 cup olive  oil
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (HHL advises to switch to rice or coconut flour)
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 cups water
• 5 tablespoons dark chocolate cocoa powder
• 2 cups sucanat sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

For the frosting

• 2 ripe avocados, mashed until smooth
• 5 tablespoons dark chocolate cocoa powder
• 1 cups sugar (HHL advises 1/3 cup of Monk fruit sugar)

Method of preparation:
You should preheat the oven to 350, and grease and flour two 9” round cake pans.
Then, whisk the flour,  cocoa powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. In another bowl, whisk olive oil and the white vinegar, avocado, water, and vanilla extract. As soon as they a combined, add the sucanat sugar.
Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir well. Next, divide the mixture evenly between cake pans, and bake. After half an hour, check for doneness.
Afterward, leave the cakes to cool in the pans, and take them out after 15 minutes to be completely cold. Add a frosting layer on the first cake layer, and then top the second one.
In the end, pour the remaining frosting to the top of the entire cake.

9 Reasons to Use Epsom Salt

Epsom salt, which is not really a salt at all but a mineral compound comprised of magnesium and sulfate, gets its named from a saline spring at Epsom in Surrey, England. Epsom salt has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a number of ailments and also has many beauty, gardening and household uses.
Both magnesium and sulfate are readily absorbed into the skin which makes the health benefits readily accessible. Over 325 enzymes in the body are regulated by magnesium which also helps reduce inflammation, alleviates hardening of the arteries and improves muscle and nerve function. Sulfates improve the rate at which nutrients are absorbed and help to flush out toxins.
Ease Stress
If you are stressed, you may be deficient in magnesium and you may have elevated adrenaline. When Epsom salt is dissolved in warm water it is absorbed through the skin and can naturally replenish lost magnesium. This magnesium helps the body produce serotonin, which is a mood elevating chemical in the brain.
Magnesium also increases energy and stamina by encouraging the production of ATP – the energy powerhouse of the cell. Bathing in Epsom salt three times a week can help increase your energy, improve your mood and reduce the negative impacts of elevated adrenaline. Use 2 cups of Epsom salt in each full bath.
Eliminate Toxins
The sulphates in Epsom salt draw heavy metals and other toxins from cells which can ease muscle pain and improve cellular function. Adding Epsom salt to your bathwater pulls salt out of your body along with harmful toxins. Add 2 cups of Epsom salt to a warm bath once a week and soak for at least 10 minutes for detoxification.
Relieve Pain and Cramps in Muscles
If you have sore muscles, migraine headaches or bronchial asthma, you may want to try an Epsom salt bath. It can relieve both pain and inflammation. If you are on your feet all day you may want to soak them in warm Epsom salt. It can also help neutralize foot odor.
For Beauty
Try the following beauty treatments that use Epsom salt:
Exfoliating Facial Cleanser – Mix a small handful of Epsom salt with a tablespoon of coconut oil and rub on your face. Rinse and pat dry.
Blackhead Remover – Add a teaspoon of salt and 3 drops of iodine into half a cup of boiling water. Apply mixture to blackheads using a cotton ball.
Skin Mask – For normal to oily skin, mix 1 tablespoon of cognac, 1 organic egg, 1/4 cup of nonfat dry milk, the juice of one lemon and half a teaspoon of epsom salt together. Dampen your skin and place the mixture on your face – avoiding the eye area. Allow the mask to harden and set for about ten minutes – rinse and pat dry.
Home and Garden
Use Epsom salt around your home and garden:
Clean Bathroom Tiles – Get those dim and dirty tiles in your bathroom clean by mixing equal parts of Epsom salt with liquid dish detergent. Scrub tiles with the mixture and rinse well.
Fertilize Plants – Plants need nutrients including magnesium and sulfur in order to look their best. Sprinkling Epsom salt once a week on houseplants, flowers and vegetables will provide them with the nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus they need to thrive.

http://www.thealternativedaily.com/9-reasons-use-epsom-salt/