Health Tips of the Week Issue 197 | Fitness and Freebies

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Healthy Ezine of the Week: Issue 197

Featured Article

Fitness Tip

Sweat Away Sickness
German researchers have found a potent germ killer right below the surface of our skin. This natural antibiotic, called dermcidin, is made in the body's sweat glands; it bubbles to the surface when you exercise. No one knows what works against cold viruses, but dermcidin does provide a measure of protection from some bacteria that causes common infections such as stomach or skin problems. Since bacteria live on everything from doorknobs to telephones, a daily does of perspiration could prevent your next irritation!

Nutrition Tip

High-Energy Cereal
Adding more dietary fiber to your breakfast daily could boost your energy by making you more regular. A high-fiber diet is smart for many reasons. Not only does it give your energy level a lift, it can lower your risks of diabetes, heart disease and possibly cancer. In addition, it helps control your weight. Note: It may take your system a few days to adjust to a higher fiber level, but stay with it. Go easy at first to avoid some stomach discomfort and bloating. If you do experience these symptoms to any degree, they should ease up during the second week and eventually disappear completely. Try these quick fixes in your breakfast cereal:

If you like Rice Chex, which has 0 grams of fiber, try Multi-Bran Chex, which contains 8 grams of fiber.
If you like Product 19, which has 1 gram of fiber, try Raisin Bran, which has 8 grams of fiber.
If you like Fruit Loops, which has 1 gram of fiber, try 1/2 Fruit Loops and 1/2 All-Bran Extra Fiber for 7 grams of total fiber.
If you like Oatmeal, which has three grams of fiber, try Oatmeal plus 2-tablespoons of ground flaxseed for six grams of fiber. If just beginning to use flaxseed, start with less and build up gradually to 2-tablespoons.

Nutrient of the Week

Fennel Seed
Fennel Seed increases digestive fire. It is the premiere carminative (relieves gas) in the world, especially for adults. Fennel is a cooling spice that calms the nerves and promotes mental alertness. It loosens lung mucus and helps clear the chest. Fennel also balances blood pressure, promotes lactation, will hasten a menstrual period and increases libido.

Quick Recipe

Mexican Pizza
Preheat oven to 425-degrees. Place a store bought 10-ounce thin pizza crust on a baking sheet. Spread with one can (16 ounces) vegetarian refried beans; sprinkle with 1-cup (4 ounces) pre-packaged reduced-fat Mexican blend cheese. Bake eight to ten minutes or until crust is crisp and cheese melts. Top with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, mild taco sauce and chopped cilantro.

Tidbit(s)

Eating Healthy Doesn't Have to Cost A Lot
For about the price of a candy bar you can purchase a day's worth of fruits and vegetables, according to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The study, based on A.C. Nielsen data, found that more than half of fruits and vegetables cost an average of 25 cents or less per serving and that most fruits and vegetables are less expensive fresh than frozen or canned.

Food Fixes

If a recipe calls for butter and yours is hard, you can grate it. The grated pieces blend in batter easily.

You can correct greasy gravy by adding a little baking soda to it.

When using all-purpose flour, keep in mind that one pound flour is the equivalent to 4 cups.

Marinate chicken in buttermilk to tenderize.

This 'n That

Free recipes for many dietary needs!

Fitness and Freebies Sister Site, focuses strictly on nutrition! Lots of great food information! BellyBytes.com

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