Tag Archives: minerals

Chelating Smoothie – Ridding of Heavy Metals

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Chelating agents are used to bind with heavy toxic metals such as cadmium, lead and mercury, and to excrete them from the body.

The following Mango Pineapple Smoothie has been boosted with chelating agents and is heavy in fiber for moving out the heavy metals.

Mango Pineapple Smoothie

  • 1  container (6 oz) vanilla yogurt
  • 1  cup mango, apple and pineapple chunks
  • 1 1/4 cup soy milk (almond milk is the best substitute if soy allergic)
  • 1/4  cup pineapple juice
  • 1 scoop Fiber Blend
  • 1 scoop Green Blend
  • 1 scoop Women’s Blend

Blend and serve

This smoothie uses powerful antioxidants and binding agents like apple pectin to aid in the removal and excretion of toxins including heavy metals.

Chunky Mixed Fruit Smoothie

  • 1 large gala apple
  • 6 oz. soy or almond milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or frozen in own juice)
  • 1 tbsp. coconut oil
  • 1 cup frozen blueberries
  • 1 medium size frozen banana
  • 1/2 cup soaked almonds
  • 1 scoop Fiber Blend
  • 1 scoop Green Blend
  • 1 scoop Women’s Blend
  • Blend and serve.

The Glory of Fiber!

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Yes, I said FIBER!

I know – I know who likes to talk fiber.

Well many years ago now my father had angina.  I had been using a wonderful resource for years to create a healthier lifestyle (The Healing Foods CookBoook from Prevention Magazine’s Editors ISBN-10: 0878579567) and had learned what I thought was a wealth of information.  His heart condition though alerted me to many things I had not yet learned.

FIBER was at the center of the crisis.

The Healing Foods Cookbook is separated into 3 sections – healing foods, diseases and recipes.  I ended up using two books so I could open to the first two sections simultaneously.  And as I did I researched what would heal his angina and reduce his risks for further problems.

One thing came up fast – FIBER.  Not over the counter fiber but natural fresh fruit, veggie and grains fiber.

30 grams of fiber per day reduces cancer risk by 50%.

But what else can it do?

After researching for this online quite a bit the best article I found was from Dr Sears – Fantastic Fiber

And I would have loved to bring the whole article over but that’s unrealistic.  So I encourage you to click and read.

Here though are some highlights with sources noted.

Via eHealthMd

Getting enough fiber in the diet can lower the risk of developing certain conditions:

  • Heart disease. Evidence is now growing to support the notion that foods containing soluble fiber (such as oats, rye barley, and beans) can have a positive influence on cholesterol, triglycerides, and other particles in the blood that affect the development of heart disease. Some fruits and vegetables (such as citrus fruits and carrots) have been shown to have the same effect.
  • Cancer. The passage of food through the body is speeded up when fiber is eaten. Some experts believe this may prevent harmful substances found in some foods from affecting the colon and may protect against colon cancer. (However, a recent study conducted by Harvard University concluded that eating high-fiber food did not appear to protect people from colon cancer.) Other types of cancer that are linked with overnutrition and may be prevented by a fiber-rich diet include breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and uterine cancer.
  • Type 2 Diabetes. Adding fiber to the diet helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is important in avoiding diabetes. In addition, some people with diabetes can achieve a significant reduction in their blood sugar levels and may find they can reduce their medication.
  • Diverticular disease. Diverticular disease is a condition in which small pouches, called diverticula, develop in the wall of the colon. In a small percentage of people, these diverticula become inflamed or infected, a condition known as diverticulitis. Diverticular disease can cause pain, diarrhea, constipation, and other problems.
  • Gallstones and kidney stones. Rapid digestion leads to a rapid release of glucose (sugar) into the bloodstream. To cope with this, the body has to release large amounts of insulin into the bloodstream, and this can make a person more likely to develop gallstones and kidney stones (in addition to diabetes and high cholesterol).

Keeping Weight Under Control

Foods containing plenty of fiber have more bulk than low-fiber foods. If taken in the right form at the right time and at sufficient quantities, fiber can sometimes slow the onset of hunger.

Via DrSears.com

NUTRITIP:
Fiber Soaks Up Fat 

Eat high-fiber foods with high-fat foods to decrease the absorption of fat. Increase your daily fiber and you’ll absorb fewer calories.

Via MayoClinic.com

How much fiber do you need?

How much fiber do you need each day? The National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Medicine, which provides science-based advice on matters of medicine and health, gives the following daily recommendations for adults:

Age 50 and younger Age 51 and older
Men 38 grams 30 grams
Women 25 grams 21 grams

Triple Chocolate – Almond Shake

[Source: Complete Idiot’s Guide to High Fiber Cooking]

Chocolate lovers will flip over this luxurious shake made with creamy soy milk and ice cream. Cocoa powder adds the final punch of flavor and fiber.

1 1/2 cups chocolate almond or rocky road ice cream
1 cup chocolate soy milk
2 TB unsweetened cocoa powder
2 TB local honey

1 TB toasted wheat germ

1/2 tsp almond extract

1. Place ice cream, soy milk, cocoa powder, honey, wheat germ and almond extract in a blender and puree until smooth.

2. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.


Want to add a boost to your smoothies? Add Smoothie Essentials Boosts to any smoothie. Most are 0% Taste and 0% Color thus making them blendable into any drink.

Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids – very powerful anti-inflammatory agents.


Proteins – Important to muscle growth and maintenance but many red meats are thought to trigger inflammation.


Jello Shots

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Today I ran across an great blog “Jelly Shot Test Kitchen

Rainbow Cherry Jelly Jigglers

Rainbow Cherry Jelly Jigglers

The site of course has me intrigued.  I’ve loved Jello my whole life yet jigglers have never been in my focus yet today they have come to my attention not just as an adult drink treat but as a fun healthy alternative!

My inspiration the lovely rainbow cherry jigglers above.

The mold used for these also can be used for making the eye balls – under October’s archives.

So here we are in fall and I am thinking what else can we jiggle into a cute mold besides cherries?

Pears?  Pomegranate?  Mandarins?  Fresh seasonal fruit seems an obvious choice.

As we enter the season of potlucks and school parties I wonder . . . what can you place into gelatin to create a tasty treat?

Here is another great site for ideas!

Kid’s Jello Recipes

Let me know what you try!!

Gelatin Tips and Hints

• Unprepared gelatin has an indefinite shelf-life as long as it is wrapped airtight and stored in a cool, dry place.

• Keep gelatin dishes refrigerated until ready to serve to maintain their gelatinous state.

• Do not add fresh or frozen pineapple to gelatin or Jell-O. These fruits, along with raw figs, kiwifruit, guava, ginger root, and papaya contain an enzyme called bromelain which breaks down gelatin causing it to lose its thickening properties. The enzymes are deactivated by cooking, so canned pineapple and kiwi are fine to use.

• To avoid clumping, dry unflavored gelatin should be mixed with a little cold water first for 3 to 5 minutes to moisten and separate before adding hot water.

• Thicker stock and a more delicate flavor results from using veal bones rather than beef bones since the veal has more collagen which gels the stock.

• Store gelatin desserts in a covered container to avoid the formation of a thick rubbery skin on the surface.

• Too much sugar can inhibit gelatinization. The more sugar in the recipe, the softer the resultant gelatin will be.

• Firmness varies on the ratio of water to gelatin and temperature. You can successfully melt down (gently using a double-boiler) and re-chill gelatin several times before the mixture loses its thickening ability.

• Gelatin takes twice as long to dissolve when used with cream or milk.

• When using sugar with unflavored gelatin, mix the sugar and gelatin first before dissolving.

• To suspend fruits, meats, or vegetables in gelatin, chill until it is the consistency of cold egg whites. Then mix in the additions and chill until completely set.

• Be sure to drain all solids of their liquid before adding to gelatin to avoid watering down the gelatin.

• For 2 cups of gelatin mixture, allow 1 to 2 cups of solids, either minced, cubed, or cut into small pieces.

• To easily unmold gelatin, spray the mold with cooking oil before filling. If you want to avoid an oily film which might cloud the surface by using oil spray, simply rinse the mold with cold water prior to filling. Or dip the mold into warm (not hot) water to the depth of the gelatin for 5 to 10 seconds, loosen edges with a knife or spatula, and unmold. Return to the refrigerator for 20 minutes to refirm.

• Use 1 envelope (1 tablespoon or 1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin to 2 cups of water for standard firmness. Decrease or increase water for your particular needs. One 3-ounce package of flavored, sweetened gelatin needs 2 cups of water. One tablespoon of unflavored powdered gelatin equals 4 sheets of leaf gelatin.

• Two hours of chilling should be enough for standard clear molds, while it may take up to 4 hours for those with additions. Layered gelatins will take longer, since each layer must be individually chilled and firmed before adding the next layer.

• If you are doubling a recipe originally calling for 2 cups of liquid, use only 3-3/4 cups of liquid in the doubled recipe.

• Other liquids can be used in place of water to prepare gelatin, including fruit juices, clarified vegetable or meat stock, wine, vegetable juices and seafood broths.

• Do not bring gelatin mixtures to a full boil or you risk losing its thickening properties.

• To easily center a mold on a plate, rinse the plate with cold water before unmolding the gelatin.

Sponsored by Smoothie Essentials.  The essentials nutrients your body needs in a  drink you love!

Dieting and You

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Plant A Dream

Plant A Dream

 

There are numerous books written on dieting. Many we have written ourselves since of all who know how the body we own responds it is us. Like many I have tried many of these “experiments”. Few have worked. Of them all the most successful has been “You on a Diet”. 10,000 foot steps a day changes ones life, regular watering grows good health and eating foods that honor one’s heart has life long consequences. Regular care of one’s garden ensures a healthy harvest, regular care of ones body is much the same. As we all know from years of experience – “Diet’s don’t work.” GardeningProper care of our personal garden (our bodies) is a life time passion.  There are a few basic care principles we can implement into our daily lives –

Water – Like every garden our bodies need water.  Clear clean water.  No need for additives – proper hydration is the key.  What equates to proper hydration? Water is essential to good health, yet needs vary by individual. These guidelines can help ensure you drink enough fluids.  Water: How much should you drink every day? by the Mayo Clinic.

Food – Feeding our boodies healthy organic nutrient rich foods is critical to our total well being.  The food we eat feeds every cell from the top of our heads to the bottoms of our feet.  More on eating healthy “Nutrition and Healthy Eating” by Mayo Clinic.  Making conscious aware food choices to optimize the nutrients we give our bodies is an easy way to ensure a healthier tomorrow.

Exercise – The final basic in our gardening plan.  10,000 steps a day is all it takes.  The benefits of walking can be seen in as few as 90 days and are known to slow the aging process.  Drs. Oz and Roizen Speak Out: Top 10 Benefits of Walking  This list will get you moving! Is Your Job Making You Fat? Study Links Office Work With Obesity Walking has been shown to reduce stress and also lower your risk for cubicle obesity.

Three simple steps that will change your life in as little as 90 days.

  1. Proper Hydration

  2. Nutrient Rich Foods and Balanced Meals

  3. Exercise – One step at a time

Maintaining the garden that is your body is a life long process beginning is 3 simple steps.

Smoothie Essentials a quick easy way to boost your life.

Back to School

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As we see the beginning of the 2010 school year parents and children alike ready to enter the new adventure that will eventually be but a memory.  Every year parents every where promise this year the balanced breakfast will start each day out “right”.  Cereal, milk, eggs, toast, and juice! Whew! No frozen short cuts it’s pancakes after all; they aren’t hard or time consuming – except when you are 30 minutes behind to begin with.

Why not a fresh fruit smoothie with a boost for the whole family!

With the new school year come also new coughs, sniffles and general bacteria; a never ending battle for parents and kids alike to stay well.  A healthy immune system is a cornerstone to an active healthy life. Herbs like Echinacea and Goldenseal, plus a regular intake of adequate Vitamin C, will help keep your immune system running in optimum performance. Smoothie Essentials Immune Support Blend is an excellent source of Vitamin C.

Berry Banana Immune Support Smoothie Recipe Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup orange juice fresh squeezed or from the carton
  • honey or sugar to taste
  • 2 scoops Smoothie Essentials Immune Support Blend

Mix in blender till smooth.   Pour into glasses and serve.   This makes 2 servings

Breakfast as a Smoothie –

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Good health begins with a good breakfast.

For many of us the busyness of life short changes our quality of life and thus our health.

“Dietary supplements aren’t intended to be a food substitute because they can’t replicate all of the nutrients and benefits of whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables. So if you’re generally healthy and eat a balanced diet, daily dietary supplements may not be worth the expense. However, if you can’t eat enough healthy foods or have certain conditions, you may benefit from taking a daily dietary supplement.” – Mayo Clinic Staff

For us the great way to add that balance to our lives is a wonderful fresh fruit smoothie with the addition of a boost.

Breakfast Smoothie –

Ingredients

Directions
In a blender, combine banana, apple, and orange juice. Blend until smooth. Add soy milk and yogurt. Blend again.  Add 1 scoop Smoothie Essentials Multi-Vitamin (I also like Smoothie Essentials Women’s Blend).   Blend again until well blended.

Pour into glasses and serve.

Energy Blend

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Energy Blend

The true beauty of this blend of healthy ingredients is that it can help

  1. fight fatigue
  2. increase stamina
  3. boost vitality
  4. reducing stress

Ingredients

  • Ginseng (eleutherococcus senticosus)
  • Ginkgo Biloba
  • Green Tea
  • Bee Pollen
  • Kola Nut
  • Gotu Kola

Nutritional Information

  • 20 Calories
  • 4 grams Carbohydrates
  • 0 Total Fat
  • 0 Cholesterol
  • 0 Fiber
  • 0 Protein
  • 0 Sugars

Serving Size: 1 Scoop = 5.0 Grams

Smoothie Essentials

0% Color, 0% Flavor, 100% Essential

A Closer Look

Why an Energy Blend?

Why not just have a strong coffee or a soda?

Although those are traditionally the most popular daily energy boosts,

science now shows us that they are not always the most effective

way to feel more energized and stay that way.

Natural ingredients – without sugar and caffeine – are more suitable to many people.

Especially for sustained energy, rather than a quick burst that’s followed by a crashing low.

Featured Ingredient.

Green Tea

Green Tea has long been a standard part of a

healthy diet across Asia, especially in China.

Today the benefits of Green Tea’s rich antioxidants

– from the leaves’ catechin polyphenols content,

particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) –

have become broadly accepted and Green Tea drinkers

all over the world praise its ability to lower cholesterol and

reduce the risk of heart disease.

Other Ingredients

Kola Nut

Kola is said to have a general stimulating affect due to its caffeine content, but is also able to lift mood, increase alertness and boost energy. The nut itself has long been chewed, often in ceremonies in West African Cultures.

Ginkgo Biloba

The extract found in the leaves of the Ginkgo Biloba tree have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine, only in the past few decades has its usefulness also been realized by Western medicine. It is said to regulate the tone and elasticity of blood, enhancing circulation, while promoting the delivery of oxygen and blood sugar to nerve cells.

Are you looking for a sports energy drink?

Perhaps you use Monster, Red Bull, Rock Star.

You’re looking for energy drinks on the display rack?

Weighing options, choices, flavors, prices.

What about all those extra things that might be lurking inside of that drink?

Did you know you can get the pure powder without all those add-ins?

Smoothie Essentials offers a powdered, green tea based, energy supplement.

Add Energy Blend to whatever you want, whatever you already have!

Smoothie Essentials Energy Blend is flavorless on it’s own.

0 Fat, 0 Cholesterol, 0 Sugar.

It is the pure, genuine ingredient in its base form.

Smoothie Essentials offers the best green tea energy.

We offer health benefits instead of artificial flavors.

You don’t have to rely on caffeine for energy.

For energy with vitamins, Energy Blend is the best source for your energy drink.

You can decide what else you should be drinking or eating with it.

Click here for locations.

Add it!

To shakes!

To smoothies!

To fruit juice!

To your own beverage!

To your strawberry banana smoothie recipe!

To your fresh fruit smoothie recipe!

To your quick, easy, simple and favorite smoothie recipes!

To ice cream!

Whatever you have in your blender, fridge, mug!

Make the Smoothie Essentials Energy Blend part of:

  • Your energy source
  • Your diet plan
  • Your weight loss program
  • Your day!

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Antioxidant Blend

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Drink to Your Health!

Drink to Your Health!

Antioxidant Blend
This powerful blend,
based around the well-known benefits of natural antioxidants,
helps fight infection, increase your immune function
and decrease your risk of getting sick.
Ingredients
Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E,
Green Tea, Tomato, Celery,
Spinach, Carrot, Milk Thistle
Nutritional Information
15 Calories, 0 Total Fat, 0 Cholesterol,
4 gms Carbohydrates,
0 Fiber, 0 Protein, 0 Sugars
Serving Size: 1 Scoop = 4.6 Grams

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle

A Closer Look
What is Antioxidant?
Antioxidants are consumed in foods and supplements, and they help prevent the development of “free radicals” within the body. Free radicals attack different parts of the body, making it harder to fight infections and stave off the effects of aging.

Beautiful greens with purple crowns

Beautiful greens with purple crowns

Featured Antioxidant Ingredient
Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle has long been associated with better liver health and its medical use has been traced back more than 2,000 years. Nicholas Culpeper, a well-known 17th-century pharmacist, cited its use for opening “obstructions” of the liver and spleen and recommended it for the treatment of jaundice.
It is now also said to aid general digestion, through its effect on free radicals.

Other Ingredients
Green Tea
Green Tea has long been a standard part of a healthy diet across Asia, especially in China. Today the benefits of its rich antioxidants – from the leaves’ catechin polyphenols content, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) – have become broadly accepted and Green Tea drinkers all over the world praise its ability to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Smoothie Essentials

Smoothie Essentials

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Hello world!

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Smoothie Essentials Blends are a wide
range of functional supplements,
delicately mixed by our herbalists for
maximum health benefits. Almost all
of our Blends have no color or flavor,
making them easy to add to your favorite
blended drink. On our website you’ll find
detailed information on each Blend’s
ingredients and benefits, so you can pick
the one that’s just right for you.

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