I Just Love This

"There is a growing body of evidence that wellness programs that promote lifestyle changes can diminish the incidence and severity of chronic disease, provide a substantial return on investment, and reduce reliance on the conventional medical care system." This is a quote from the resolution that congressman Jim Langevin of R.I. has introduced into congress. This man also wants universal healthcare, but at least he’s on the right track with this.

I’ve seen two more TV programs this week that talked about taking responsibility for our health thru diet, exercise and supplements. One was on a PBS station and the speaker was Brenda Watson, ND, CNC. She was saying a lot of the things that I have been saying here. Fiber, digestive enzymes, omega 3 oils, and probiotics, are all included in her program. You can google her and get some of her materials, ie, books cd’s , etc.

The other program was on Canadian TV and they talked about functional foods. Remember I wrote about them a few weeks back This nutritional expert, Sherry Torkos, B.Sc.Phm., talked about certain foods that actually help a person lose weight. I’ll go thru the list briefly.
1. Green Tea – contains antioxidants and caffeine, which interact together to increase calorie-burning and boost metabolism. 5 – 10 cups a day is a recommended amount to show beneficial results.
2. Apples – They might just keep the fat away, along with the Dr. The soluble fiber makes a person feel full and that can lead to eating less often and therefore fewer calories. They can also stabilize blood sugar and this will keep the body in a fat-burning mode instead of a fat-storing mode.
3. Chia – Yep! The same seeds that grow on “the pet.” The seeds, as a functional food, can support weight loss, balance blood sugar levels and provide high-octane energy. Chia is also high in fiber, protein, essential fatty acids, and many nutrients.
4. Soybeans – Research from the University of Illinois found that soymilk and tofu raise metabolism, helping to lower body fat percentage. It also stabilizes blood sugar and insulin levels, which means fewer hunger cravings and fewer calories being stored as fat.
5. White kidney bean – works as a starch neutralizer; reduces amount of starch absorbed from a meal, lowers GI, and promotes weight loss. This supplement allows you to enjoy starchy carbs without guilt.!
6. Cayenne – a great spice to give your food some kick and help burn calories by triggering a thermodynamic response that lasts hours after eating.
7. Cinnamon – works synergistically with insulin to improve blood sugar control. As little as 1/4 teaspoon added to food helps the body metabolize sugar faster and lowers the body's blood-sugar levels.


I had not heard of the Chia seeds before, everything else I am familiar with. The only one that I do not use is Soy. I just don’t like it. I’ve tried it in many different forms, but it doesn’t really like me and the feeling is mutual. So, I get my protein from other sources.

I’m just happy that achieving and maintaining good health is being talked about, more and more, in terms of “It’s your responsibility”. Brenda Watson said “Education is key to good health.” My sentiments exactly!!

Healthy Days to You, Your Smiling Maven