Posts by controlyourhealthdestiny

Declutter your life

Mar04
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

We all have treasured possessions in our lives. We all have cherished memories. We all have a past, good or bad.

When I moved several times in the past, I was able to let go of much of my excess stuff, yet I kept a few items that have sentimental value to me.

In my experience, excessive clutter can prevent us from focusing on our relevant priorities. Cleaning out the clutter in our lives, can free up more than our physical space. It can free up our mental space.

We are only in control of the present. The past is simply a memory. It has as much power as we choose to give it. Focusing on our past sends us backward. How can we make any progress by looking in the rear-view mirror the entire time?

Can you let go of all irrelevant stuff? Can you look at every part of your life and determine what really matters now? Do you really need to hold onto “irrelevant or useless possessions?

Bring some calmness to your life!

Posted in Healthy Living - Tagged declutter, getorganized, health, healthyliving, personalgrowth, wellness

Love Love Hummus

Feb16
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

A friend introduced me to hummus when I was younger. I have had a love affair with hummus ever since.

Hummus is one of the healthiest foods you can eat and one of the oldest foods dating back to ancient Egypt.

Hummus is a dip or spread that is made from chickpeas (garbanzo beans). Hummus is the Arabic word for chickpea (which is “garbanzo” in Spanish).

I always make my own hummus and it’s so easy to make!

INGREDIENTS

2 15 oz cans of chickpeas or garbanzo beans
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup water
2/3 cup tahini (sesame paste)
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 cup grape seed oil or extra virgin olive oil
3 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground red pepper (Optional)

For garnishing: 1-2 tablespoons grape seed oil or extra virgin olive oil, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground red pepper (Optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (Optional)

DIRECTIONS

Rinse and drain the chickpeas. In a food processor, process chickpeas with lemon juice, water, tahini and garlic until blended. Add oil slowly while processor is running until hummus is smooth. Then, add cumin, red pepper and salt. Blend well until creamy.

Place hummus in a serving bowl; drizzle with oil. Garnish with cumin, red pepper and chopped parsley (if desired).

Serve with fresh, warm, toasted pita bread or roasted zucchini sticks.

Enjoy!

Posted in Brain Health, Healthy Eating, Healthy Living, Heart Health, Weight Loss - Tagged autoimmunedisease, brainhealth, cholesterol, HealthyFoods, healthyspices, hearthealth, immunity, nutrients, vitamins, weightloss

Spinach Mushroom Barley Patties

Feb15
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

If you love barley, you’ll love this healthy recipe.

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons shelled sunflower seeds(raw)
1 medium onion
3 cloves garlic
2 cups mushrooms
1 medium carrot
1 10 oz frozen spinach
2 1/2 tablespoons tahini
2 cups cooked barley
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper(optional)
Grape seed oil for skillet

DIRECTIONS

In a food processor, add sunflower seeds, onion, garlic, carrot and mushrooms. Grind thoroughly, then add spinach, barley, tahini, salt and cayenne pepper; process until all mixed. Form the mixture into patties.

Preheat a nonstick pan or skillet coated lightly with grape seed oil. Cook each side of the patties over medium-heat for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy these patties with a green salad!

Posted in Brain Health, Healthy Eating, Heart Health, Weight Loss - Tagged cholesterol, detoxification, healthyeating, HealthyFoods, hearthealth, hypertension, nutrients, wellness

Are you getting enough “Vitamin D”?

Feb08
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

Did you know that “Vitamin D” is actually not a vitamin, but a hormone?
“Vitamin D” is simply produced when the cholesterol in your skin is exposed to sunlight.

It’s generally termed as “Vitamin D” or known as the “Sunshine Vitamin”.

“Vitamin D” is critically important for the development, growth, and maintenance of a healthy body regardless of age. Getting sufficient amounts of the “Sunshine Vitamin” is essential for bone health, immunity, lower risk of cancer, heart and thyroid health. It is required for the absorption of Calcium for strong bones.

Americans’ “Vitamin D” levels dropped considerably lower during the past two decades. More alarming is the fact that this widespread “Vitamin D” deficiency has been reported in young children and teens.

“Vitamin D” is found in fish like tuna and salmon. Some manufacturers fortify their foods with “Vitamin D” (such as Orange Juice, Milk and Breakfast Cereals).
There are also “Vitamin D” supplements (CAUTION: certain risks and side effects).

Personally, I prefer getting my “Vitamin D” from sunlight, because I enjoy small amounts of sun exposure frequently as well as being outdoors. I also love salmon.

If you avoid sun exposure or live in northern climates, you might want to talk to your health care professional as your “Vitamin D” levels can be low.

Posted in Bone Health, Brain Health, Healthy Eating, Heart Health, Thyroid Health, Weight Loss - Tagged autoimmunedisease, bonehealth, healthyeating, hypertension, immunity, nutrients, Osteoporosis, stress, VitaminD, vitamins, weightloss, wellness

SHRIMP QUINOA – A healthy recipe

Feb07
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

INGREDIENTS

2 cups Quinoa, rinsed
3 cups hot water
1 lb large uncooked shrimp, washed, peeled and deveined
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 green pepper, washed and chopped
1 red bell pepper, washed and chopped
1/2 chili pepper, washed and finely chopped (OPTIONAL)
4 tablespoons grape seed oil or extra virgin olive oil
1 fresh lemon’s juice
Salt to taste (about 2 teaspoons)
Cherry tomatoes for garnish (if desired)

DIRECTIONS

1) Put the measured Quinoa in a large bowl and cover with cool water.  Use a wooden spoon to mix the Quinoa with water.  Pour the Quinoa into a very fine-meshed sieve to drain the water.  Repeat this process twice before cooking. This will remove the bitter resin-like coating.

2) Pour the hot water in a sauce pan and stir in the Quinoa. Add 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, close the lid and cook until the Quinoa absorbs all the water. Remove from the heat and set aside.

3) In a wok or skillet, add 2 tablespoons oil, chopped onion and peppers. Saute for about 4 minutes. Over medium heat, stir in the shrimps and 1 teaspoon salt to taste. Cook until the shrimps are opaque, about 7 minutes. Avoid overcooking the shrimps.

4) Mix cooked Quinoa with 2 tablespoons oil and fresh lemon juice; toss with the sautéed shrimp mixture. Garnish each serving with a cherry tomato, if desired.

This is one of my favorites; a healthy dish and can be served cold or warm.

Enjoy!

Posted in Healthy Eating, Heart Health, Weight Loss - Tagged cholesterol, detoxification, glutenfree, health, healthyeating, minerals, nutrients, wellness

Eat More Quinoa

Jan26
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

The Incas referred to quinoa as “chisaya mama” or “mother of all grains.” Quinoa is now widely cultivated in Peru, Bolivia and Chile. South Americans refer to quinoa as “little rice”. Quinoa can be found in most natural food stores.

Quinoa is a whole protein, a good source of phosphorus, magnesium, iron, fiber, vitamin E and most of the B vitamins. It contains a balanced set of all eight essential amino acids.

Quinoa is an alternative to white rice; a much healthier choice.
It’s easy to digest. More important, It’s gluten-free, wheat-free, and nutrient-packed.

Quinoa can be cooked just like white rice. However, it’s necessary to wash quinoa thoroughly before cooking. This will remove the bitter resin-like coating.

* Put the measured quinoa in a large bowl and cover with cool water.
* Use a wooden spoon to mix the quinoa with water.
* Pour the quinoa into a very fine-meshed sieve to drain the water.
* Repeat the process twice before cooking.

You can use quinoa in place of rice in any dish. Use it in soups, stews, casseroles, salads and try it in bread, muffins, nutrition bars.

Quinoa is an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate “healthy food” into their everyday diets.

Posted in Brain Health, Healthy Eating, Heart Health, Weight Loss - Tagged glutenfree, health, healthyeating, minerals, nutrients, vitamins, weightloss, wellness

Are you planning a detox this spring?

Jan21
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

In my experience, one of the easiest cleansing habits you can adopt is to start each day with a large cup of hot water with a lemon squeezed into it. This is the most beneficial cleansing as it stimulates cleansing of both the liver and the gallbladder. The liver is the primary detoxifying organ.

Here is a few more tips that may help:

1. Eliminate refined sugars, hydrogenated and saturated fats from your diet.

2. Eat fiber-rich apples, pears, legumes and oat bran.

3. Drink at least 8 glasses of pure water a day.

4. Eat vegetables that possess cleansing properties; beets, parsnips, carrots, sweet potatoes, radishes, artichokes, cabbage, broccoli and seaweed.

5. Eat plenty of fiber including brown rice.

6. Cleanse and protect the liver by taking detoxifying herbs such as Milk Thistle, Aloe Vera, Dandelion, Burdock and drinking Japanese Green Tea.

7. Try Yoga, Meditation, Pilates, Jump-Roping, Weight Training, Dancing, Walking up stairs, Aerobic Exercise, Martial Arts.

8. Dry-brush your skin to remove toxins. Dry brushing stimulates circulation.

9. Keep a positive attitude in life no matter what happens. Stay grateful.

10. Always remember this: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle. ~Plato”

BEAUTY IN THE SKY by Danielle Helms

Posted in Healthy Eating, Heart Health, Weight Loss - Tagged detoxification, detoxifyingherbs, hearthealth, meditation, personalgrowth, pilates, positiveoutlook, stress, weightloss, yoga

Not only live longer, but feel better

Jan17
2011 Written by controlyourhealthdestiny

Many herbs and spices are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. I’ve collected the most effective spices and herbs that improve overall health and boost brain power.

CINNAMON

Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s commonly accepted that cinnamon regulates blood sugar levels. I notice the difference when I start my day with a healthy breakfast of oatmeal cereal sprinkled with cinnamon. I feel alert and focused the rest of the day. I use cinnamon in pies, cakes, scones and sweets.

GARLIC

Garlic’s many heart healthy, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antibacterial benefits are well known. Health benefits of garlic are strongest when it is raw and finely chopped or crushed. Recent scientific research suggests that garlic may also be good for fighting brain cancer. I use garlic both in salads and cooking.

GINGER

Ginger is an important ingredient for healthy cooking in most Asian countries. Chinese believe that ginger improves the strength of the heart. It is known to reduce the symptoms of migraines, nausea, vomiting, morning and motion sickness. It’s also known to be a natural painkiller. I use ginger in cooking and in green tea (about 3-4 teaspoons grated ginger).

SAFFRON

Saffron is excellent for depression. It is a powerful antioxidant and an effective antidepressant. I add saffron to rice dishes.

TURMERIC

Turmeric has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also fight against elevated blood sugar. A recent scientific study shows that it also reduces Alzheimer’s related inflammation in the brain. Alzheimer’s disease is not as widespread in India as in U.S.A. Turmeric is commonly used in Indian cooking. I add 2 -3 teaspoons turmeric to almost every dish.

BASIL

Basil is packed with antioxidants. Recent studies show basil also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. I use basil in cooking and salad dressings.

OREGANO

Oregano has the highest antioxidants among dried herbs. It’s delicious in pasta, pizza sauce, veggie dishes, omelets, salad dressing and grilled cheese sandwich. Try oregano on sliced tomatoes, with a pinch of cayenne pepper, some extra virgin olive oil and mozzarella cheese.

CAYENNE PEPPER, CHILI PEPPER, CRUSHED RED PEPPER

They all have excellent health benefits and metabolism enhancing properties. They aid in fat burning and help to rid the body of the bad cholesterol. I use them in my daily cooking.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary has many health benefits. The use of rosemary as a memory enhancer dates back to the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Rosemary also helps to reduce inflammation in the body. It’s one of the most aromatic herbs. I use rosemary in a variety of dishes: soups, salads, vegetables, fish, poultry and potatoes.

THYME

Thyme has antioxidant advantages. Ancient Romans used thyme as a remedy for melancholy. The oil of thyme is used to treat inflammations of the mouth and throat infections as well as in aromatherapy to relieve joint pains and elevate mood. I use thyme to flavor soups, mushroom stews, pasta sauce, fish, veggie dishes and salad dressings.

Posted in Brain Health, Healthy Eating, Heart Health, Thyroid Health, Weight Loss - Tagged bloodsugar, brainhealth, cholesterol, healthyherbs, healthyspices, hearthealth, hypertension, weightloss

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