Archives for June 2013

Alkaline Foods versus Acidic Foods: Which Are Better?

June 30, 2013 by Lou Ann Donovan Leave a Comment

Alkaline foods versus acidic foods: which are better and why does it matter? Basically alkaline foods consumed 80% of the time should allow the body to maintain a pH level of 7.365 which is just slightly alkaline. With a more alkaline body, longevity and optimal health increase and the risk of chronic diseases like; diabetes, obesity and heart problems decrease.

How the Body Processes Nutrients

Well the body is constantly trying to maintain a pH level of slightly alkaline. The body pulls the nutrients from the food you eat then either acidifies or alkalizes the blood. When there are not enough nutrients to maintain the slightly alkaline state next the body pulls from nutrients stored in the bones and other places in the body. When this backup runs dry, the body becomes a hotbed for chronic diseases.

[iconbox title=”TIP” icon=”List_w__Images.png”]Biggest fear regarding an acidic diet is bone loss due to the body releasing minerals from your bones in order to optimize your body’s pH level.[/iconbox]

Alkaline Vegetables Fruits

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High Glycemic Foods to Avoid

June 27, 2013 by Lou Ann Donovan 3 Comments

Glycemic Foods series first article – High Glycemic Foods to Avoid. Check back soon for my next post about low glycemic foods to enjoy!

A high glycemic diet, day after day, puts the body at risk for higher body fat levels. Basically high glycemic food raises the blood sugar causing the pancreas to keep pumping more insulin. Specific health problems include; weight gain, obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

[iconbox title=”TIP” icon=”Bended_Arrow_Up.png”]For every additional 100 grams of sugar per 2,000 daily calories, there’s a 45 percent higher risk of type 2 diabetes.[/iconbox]

High Glycemic Common Foods to Avoid
Breads – white breads, white flour products, corn bread
Cereal – ALL except low glycemic cereal; bran, oatmeal, Special K
Fruit – bananas, melons, pineapple, raisins
Grains – white rice, millet, corn products
Pasta – thick, large pasta shapes
Snacks – popcorn, potato chips, corn chips, rice cakes, pretzels
Vegetables – potatoes, corn, carrots, beets
Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load Food List [Read more…]

Anti-Aging Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

June 9, 2013 by Lou Ann Donovan 2 Comments

anti-aging-look-young

Did you know omega-3 fatty acids have anti-aging properties that can help you live young?

Omega-3 fatty acids are ‘’healthy fats’’ that help prevent many chronic health conditions which helps the body live and look young! Although foods are the best source for omega-3’s, supplements help as well. Look for products with these nutrients listed; alpha-linolenic acid, EPA eicosapentaenoic and DHA docosahexaenoic.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help the Body…

Reduce inflammation which can reduce risk of chronic health conditions
Lower the amount of lipids which reduces cholesterol and triglycerides
Prevent cancer cell growth
Decrease platelets which prevents excessive blood clotting
Reduce risk of obesity

[iconbox title=”Tip:” icon=”Key.png”]Recommended daily dose of omega-3 for women 1.1 grams and men 1.6 grams. Best to absorb omega-3 from foods but supplements can help as well.[/iconbox] [Read more…]