Tag Archives: Health

Thoughtful Thursday Nuun Vitamins Hydration Review

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Staying hydrated during these hot summer months is essential, and Nuun Vitamins Hydration offers a convenient and tasty way to ensure you’re getting the vitamins you need along with your hydration. These effervescent tablets are designed to dissolve in water, creating a refreshing drink that’s packed with vitamins and minerals.

Key Features:

  • Vitamins & Electrolytes: Nuun Vitamins Hydration provides a blend of vitamins A, C, D, E, and B6, along with key electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
  • Convenience: The tablets come in a compact tube, making them easy to carry in your bag, gym kit, or even a pocket. Just pop a tablet into your water bottle, let it dissolve, and enjoy.
  • Flavor Variety: Available in several delicious flavors like Strawberry Melon, Blueberry Pomegranate, and Tangerine Lime, there’s a taste for everyone.
  • Low-Calorie & Sugar-Free: With just 10 calories per serving and no added sugar, Nuun Vitamins Hydration is a healthier alternative to sugary sports drinks.

Benefits:

  • Hydration Boost: Enhances your water with essential nutrients, helping you stay hydrated and energized throughout the day.
  • Immune Support: Vitamins C and D contribute to a strong immune system, making it a great choice year-round.
  • Workout Recovery: Electrolytes help replenish what you lose through sweat, making it ideal for post-exercise hydration.

My Personal Experience:

I found Nuun Vitamins Hydration to be a game-changer, especially when going on my summer walks or just having fun at the beach. The strawberry melon flavor is my favorite and it’s refreshing without being overly sweet, plus my body loves the added vitamins for an immune boost. The convenience of the tablets is unmatched, making it easy to stay hydrated on the go.

Nuun Vitamins Hydration is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enhance their water with vitamins and electrolytes. It’s convenient, delicious, and supports overall health without the extra calories and sugar. Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments below—how do you stay hydrated and healthy?

Note: Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including Nuun Vitamins Hydration, to ensure it is appropriate for your individual health needs.

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Thoughtful Thursday Easy Homegrown Sprouts

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Last week I talked about the Benefits of Growing your own Sprouts and today I’m excited to guide you through the simple process of growing them indoors. You’ll be amazed at how effortless it is! All you need are a few basic supplies all of which are available on Amazon or possibly in your local health food or grocery stores. I’ve included some links in the supply list below but there are many options.

Supplies:

Instructions:

  1. Fill your mason jar with 2 cups of water and add 1-1.5 tablespoons of seeds. Gently mix the seeds in the water (sometimes they clump together). Place the sprouting lid on and let them soak overnight for 8-12 hours. Follow the recommendation on the seed packet.
  2. Rinse the seeds 2-3 times until the water is mostly clear.
  3. Invert the jar and let it slant slightly inside a bowl allowing the remaining water to drain from the seeds (see pictures below).
  4. Rinse the seeds 2-3 times per day, and put them back into the bowl inverted. Florida is very humid so I only rinse 2 times per day. If you use too much water, you may grow mold so adjust this based on your environment.
  5. Depending on the seeds you have it will take about 4-5 days to get sprouts. At that point they may be yellow so place them on a sunny windowsill to help turn them green.
  6. Give them a final rinse and remove any of the seed hulls. Put the sprouts back into the jar and store in the fridge. Now they’re ready for you to enjoy!

Through my experimentation, I’ve observed that alfalfa tends to sprout faster than broccoli. However, in the photos you see here, I’ve opted for a salad mix variety, which not only sprouts delightfully but also boasts a delicious blend of organic radish, broccoli, and alfalfa. These sprouts aren’t just nutritious; they’re versatile too! I enjoy incorporating them into salads, blending them into smoothies, and using them as a flavorful garnish on a variety of vegan dishes. They truly elevate any meal!

Growing your own sprouts at home is not only easy and rewarding but also adds a fresh and nutritious touch to your culinary adventures. Whether you’re a salad enthusiast, or a smoothie aficionado these vibrant sprouts are sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. So why wait? Start sprouting today and embark on a journey of delicious and wholesome eating!

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“Good nutrition creates health in all areas of our existence. All parts are interconnected.” ~T. Collin Campbell

  • Day 1 – Overnight Soak
  • Day 2 – Sprouts
  • Day 2 – Sprouts
  • Day 3 – Sprouts
  • Day 3 – Sprouts
  • Day 4 – Sprouts
  • Day 4 – Sprouts ready to enjoy!

Thoughtful Thursday Benefits of Sprouts

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Growing your own sprouts isn’t just about adding a fresh touch to your salads or sandwiches – it’s also a gateway to a treasure trove of health benefits. Here’s why cultivating these tiny powerhouses at home might just be one of the best things you can do for your well-being.

  1. Nutrient Powerhouse: Sprouts are bursting with essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants. As they germinate, their nutritional content skyrockets, making them a concentrated source of goodness for your body.
  2. Digestive Health: Sprouts are packed with dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements, helps prevent constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to overall well-being.
  3. Boosted Immunity: Rich in vitamins C and A, sprouts can give your immune system a much-needed boost. These vitamins are known for their immune-boosting properties, helping your body fend off infections and illnesses.
  4. Antioxidant Support: Sprouts contain an abundance of antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and support longevity.
  5. Weight Management: With their low-calorie content and high nutritional value, sprouts can be a valuable addition to a weight management plan. They provide satiety without adding excess calories, making them a smart choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
  6. Heart Health: Sprouts are a good source of heart-healthy nutrients like potassium and magnesium, which help regulate blood pressure and support cardiovascular health. Additionally, their fiber content can help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
  7. Convenience and Cost-Effectiveness: Growing your own sprouts at home is not only easy and fun but also cost-effective. With just a few simple tools and minimal space, you can enjoy a constant supply of fresh, nutritious sprouts without breaking the bank.

Growing your own sprouts is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your health and well-being. Whether you’re looking to boost your immunity, support digestive health, or simply add more nutrient-rich foods to your diet, sprouts are a delicious and versatile option that can be enjoyed in countless ways. So why not start sprouting today and reap the countless benefits for yourself? Your body will thank you!

Stay tuned… next week I’ll show you how easy it is to grow your own sprouts at home. Thanks for stopping by!!!

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“Your diet is your bank account. Good food choices are a good investment.” ~Bethanny Frankel

Thoughtful Thursday The Power of Hydration

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In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of staying hydrated. Yet, proper hydration is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. With last summer being a bit of a scorcher, it becomes even more crucial to prioritize hydration. Here’s why staying hydrated is so important and some tips to help you do so effectively:

Why it Matters:

  1. Vital Bodily Functions: Water regulates temperature, aids digestion, and boosts nutrient absorption, keeping your body running smoothly.
  2. Glowing Skin: Hydration plumps skin cells, flushes out toxins, and prevents dryness and premature aging for a radiant complexion.
  3. Energy Boost: Drinking water maintains alertness, fights fatigue, and keeps you focused throughout the day.
  4. Weight Management: Hydration helps control appetite, supports metabolism, and aids calorie burning.

Tips for Staying Hydration:

  • Carry a reusable bottle everywhere you go for easy access (make sure it’s BPA Free)
  • Set reminders to drink regularly, especially during busy times.
  • Infuse water with fruit, herbs or cucumber for a flavorful twist!
  • Eat water-rich foods like fruits and veggies to boost hydration.

Prioritize hydration to support your health, energy, and overall well-being. Stay refreshed and enjoy the benefits of a hydrated lifestyle!

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Thoughtful Thursday Self Love

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Yesterday was Valentine’s Day and it got me thinking. Valentine’s day is a day to express our love to others and that’s a wonderful thing. But what about giving yourself some love?

We lead such hectic lives and seldom take the time give ourselves love. As important as it is to show others you care for them, it’s just as important to care and love yourself. When you neglect yourself you may have a tendency to be impatient, not feel your best, have low energy, feel stressed, overwhelmed or all of the above.

Take the time to eat fresh healthy foods; processed foods will tend to make you more sluggish. Take the time to enjoy some quiet time to meditate and reflect on your own thoughts and emotions. Take the time to go the spa, or create a spa day at home maybe with aromatherapy or sound therapy; whatever makes you most happy. Take the time to get outdoors; soak up some of that glorious sunshine energizing and soothing your mind, body and soul. Take a break from all electronics; enjoy the inner peace and get a better night sleep.

Simply take the time to care for yourself and give yourself some love. It doesn’t have to be a whole day affair, but at least try to fit a small block of time somewhere into your schedule just for you. You’ll be better equipped to handle any obstacle that may come your way and and be the best person you were meant to be!

Hope this inspires you in some way, thanks for stopping by!!!

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Thoughtful Thursday What’s in your fruit?

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I remember shopping at the grocery store when I was a kid with my mom and being able to buy fruits only when they were in season. I also remember everything bursting with flavor and aroma. But if you go shopping today, pretty much every fruit is available year round from all around the world and sadly they don’t taste or smell as good as they used to.

After doing a little research I found that many fruits are artificially ripened using different chemicals and here’s why: In order for fruit to ripen naturally, it must contain ethylene, a gaseous plant hormone. Green, unripen fruits have low levels of ethylene. But as the fruit matures ethylene production increases and signals the plant it’s time to ripen the fruit. Even after the fruit is harvested, ethylene continues to be produced and as a result it decreases the shelf life of fruits.

Scientists came up with a way to extend the shelf life of fruits by picking them while green and ripening them with artificial ripening agents. However, this process is highly contested around the world because of the health risks associated with these ripening agents. It is said that consuming fruits, on a regular basis which have been artificially ripened can cause heart conditions, lightheadedness, and even skin ulcers depending on the ripening agents used. Thankfully most of the world banned the use of the really toxic agents but there are a few countries which still allow them to be used.

The reason the fruits don’t taste as good as they used to is because by artificially ripening the fruits only the external peel actually ripens. The inside of the fruit will basically remain green and raw. I’ve had avocados which I left out to ripen on the counter but they never did. After some time I ended up cutting them open only to find they were rotting from the inside out and now I know why.

With almost 80% of fruits being artificially ripened, I’m left scratching my head. It’s hard to tell what has been artificially ripened and what hasn’t unless you contact the companies and find out. Apparently, organic fruits aren’t excluded from this process but are less likely to be artificially ripened.

So what do you do? Fruits are very important for a healthy diet. Your best bet is to go back to the old ways and buy locally grown produce that will “hopefully” not be treated with these artificial agents. An even better idea is to plant a small garden and grow your own food. Mother nature made growing many plants fairly easy and you’ll have better control over your health plus you’ll reduce your grocery bill too.

Hope you found this post helpful, thanks for stopping by!!

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“A garden feeds more than the table, it feeds the soul.” ~Unknown

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Thoughtful Thursday WFPB

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As most of you know I started eating vegan due to health issues. But in the last several years companies have created many plant based products including cheese which actually tastes pretty good. So I fell into the trap of time constraints and plain old convenience.

My body started to develop aches and pains. It wasn’t anything major but it was also different than before I went vegan. I didn’t pay much mind to it but a month before we went on our holiday vacation I decided to go Whole Foods Plant Based (WFPB).

You may be asking why I did this when I’m already vegan. Here’s the scoop, a soda and bag of potato chips is vegan but is it healthy for you? The obvious answer is no because it’s highly processed, contains lots of sugar, salt and other things you can’t pronounce.

Whole Foods Plant Based (WFPB) is just that. You’re eating fruits and veggies that aren’t processed. So no plant based products made in a manufacturing plant. You buy your produce, prepare it and then eat it – plain and simple just as God intended.

Every morning when I’d wake up I would lay in bed assessing the daily aches and pains. It took about 3 weeks and I woke up one morning assessing the discomfort and to my surprise there was absolutely nothing! I felt perfectly fine. I continued to lay there because there had to be something. But nope, there was nothing. I was amazed that eating processed foods caused so much inflammation resulting in pain that I felt throughout my body especially my joints. Plus I dropped weight, my energy went through the roof and I felt like I turned the clock back 30 years!

What I learned from this is you don’t necessarily need to eat plant based foods but definitely eat whole foods. If you want to feel good, have more energy, lose weight reduce or completely eliminate the processed foods from your diet. You may be surprised at how great you can feel!

Hope this inspires you, thanks for stopping by!!

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“It’s not about eating healthy to lose weight. It’s about eating healthy to feel good.” ~Demi Lovato

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Thoughtful Thursday Guilty Pleasures

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With Thanksgiving only a week away most of us will be indulging in all the delicious holiday delights. Sadly, our waistlines will be bulging as a result 😂 But have no fear, I have a few tips to help get you through the holidays. What you want to do is limit your calorie intake the week before Thanksgiving so when you go over on that one day, it’s not detrimental to your waistline and you won’t miss out on any of the delectable food. So here are the tips:

  • Plan your meals for this coming week. Eat clean and lean. Load up on salads, veggies, juices and all things healthy. You can do it! It’s only for a few days😅
  • Eat well portioned meals and don’t over eat.
  • Avoid refined sugars like desserts and candies. There’ll be plenty on Thanksgiving!
  • Steer away from carbs like breads, potatoes and pastas.
  • Add more fiber to your diet so you’ll feel satisfied and full.
  • Schedule workouts to burn some extra calories and keep your stress levels to a minimum.
  • Drink plenty of water.

Planning is key to losing or maintaining your weight. After your grand Thanksgiving meal, go for a nice walk and enjoy the great outdoors. It will make you feel good and help burn some calories so you’ll have room for pie!

If you do put on a little weight, follow these tips for the week after to help bring you back down. Stressing over what to eat and not to eat doesn’t make the holiday enjoyable. So eat in moderation and savor every bite. Then get yourself back on track!!

Hope this helps get you through the holidays, thanks for stopping by!!

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Thoughtful Thursday Louis Armstrong

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Music has a way of calming the mind and soothing the soul. Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on August 4, 1901. He became a world wide sensation influencing musicians with his bold trumpet style and unique vocals at the beginning of his career in the 1920’s.

Louis had a charismatic stage presence and was highly respected by musicians from all types of music and not just jazz. He recorded many popular songs throughout his 50 year career including “Hello Dolly, La Vie En Rose, Star Dust” and my personal favorite “What a Wonderful World.”

I created this watercolor mixed media artwork as a tribute to Louis Armstrong and his beautiful, moving song. You can see the lyrics to “What a Wonderful World” in the background of this piece which he recorded in 1967. This recording was different from his others because it did not feature trumpet. It became a #1 Hit around the world including in England and South Africa but wasn’t really promoted here in the US. However, it was used in Robin Williams film, “Good Morning, Vietnam” and as a result became one of Louis Armstrong’s most-beloved songs.

The lyrics are quite beautiful and moving:

Louis stopped performing in 1969 due to health issues and passed away in his sleep July 6, 1971, at his home in Queens, New York. He was a phenomenal bandleader, jazz trumpeter and singer. I love listening to his songs especially “What a Wonderful World” which can be found on YouTube, just click the live link and it will take you right to it. He saw beauty in the simplest things and that’s what I love most about this song; I find it so comforting. Do you have a favorite Louis Armstrong song?

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Thoughtful Thursday What’s in your bottled water?

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Would you intentionally ingest plastic? But if you drink bottled water which is sold in all types of plastic containers, that’s exactly what you’re doing.

Water is the source of all life on this planet and we each need our daily supply if we want to be healthy. But consuming plastic can’t be good for our bodies. I would prefer water bottled in a glass container which is how it was originally done but that’s not practical in today’s world.

Bottled water had been sold as early as 1622 in the United Kingdom’s Holy Well bottling plant. It was believed that natural springs had healing properties and the water was sold as a medicinal remedy. Jackson’s Spa in Boston was the first to sell bottled water in 1767.

Great technological advancements were made in the 19th century in producing glass containers that were efficient and practical. And thus Saratoga Springs in Saratoga New York started producing and selling seven million bottles of water a year in 1856.

It wasn’t until the 1930’s that plastic bottles began replacing the glass water bottles. Almost 100 years later these plastic bottles have became a refuse nightmare this planet. In the US consumers purchase about 50 billion water bottles a year which adds up to a lot of waste especially because they can last for hundreds of years before decomposing in landfills and sadly many end up in our oceans.

Now here’s where it gets pretty scary. Studies showed that 93% of samples taken from 259 popular bottled water brands, sold in several countries contained “microplastic” synthetic polymer particles, in other words tiny pieces of plastic. They also found that many of those particles were visible to the naked eye.

It was also rumored if the bottled water is heated (like leaving it in the car) or refrigerated/frozen it caused more plastic particles to seep into your water. Supposedly there were studies done claiming this rumor was false or is it true?

Bottom line is you need to take care in the amount of bottled water you consume because every time you drink it, your ingesting plastic. Personally, I try not to drink it whenever possible but sometimes you don’t have a choice. So opt for filtered fresh water or water bottled in a glass container whenever possible.

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