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Healthy Ezine of the Week: Issue 199

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Featured Article

Reducing Fat and Sugar in Your Holiday Baking

Fitness Tip

Muscle Pain?
Don't reach into the medicine chest for relief of post-workout muscle stiffness and soreness, according to studies done at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. Both ibuprofen and acetaminophen inhibit the way muscles respond to exercise, they state, and may sabotage results. Instead, apply ice to sore spots. Or try a topical rub. Massaging increases local blood flow, which speeds healing time.

Nutrition Tip

Sniffing for Weight Loss
Researchers at Chicago's Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation reported that in an ongoing study participants lost an average of 34.7 pounds in six months just by sprinkling flavor-enhancing crystals ("tastants") on food before eating. Earlier research showed that enhancing the aroma and flavor of foods can trick the brain into thinking you have eaten more than you have, says neurologist Alan R. Hirsch. The nose's smell-sensing olfactory bulb is directly connected to the brain's satiety center, he says. Smells can convince the satiety center you've filled your stomach. To ask about joining the study, call 800-664-3880 or visit SmellandTaste.org.

Nutrient of the Week

Fo-Ti Root
Fo-Ti Root is native to China, where it continues to be widely grown. Once it has been boiled in a special black bean liquid, it is considered a superior tonic medicine, according to traditional Chinese medicine. The Chinese common name, he-shou-wu, is from the name of a famous herbalist whose infertility and general weakness was supposedly cured by the herb. Traditional Chinese medicine uses fo-ti to treat premature aging, weakness, vaginal discharges, angina pectoris, premature hair loss and graying and impotence. Scientific evidence shows that it is a potent protector of oxidation damage to the heart, normalizes cholesterol levels and decreases joint discomfort.

Quick Recipe

Brownie Macaroons
Heat oven to 350-degrees. Coat cookie sheets with vegetable oil spray. In a large bowl, combine one package (15.5 ounces) fudge brownie mix with chocolate chunks, 1-cup unsweetened shredded coconut, 2-tablespoons water, 1-tablespoon vegetable oil and one egg; beat 50 strokes with spoon. Shape dough into 24 (1-1/2-inch) balls. Place 3-inches apart on cookie sheet; flatten slightly. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until edges set (centers will be soft).

Tidbit(s)

Yo-Yo Dieting a No-No
Weight shifts -- repeatedly losing and regaining ten or more pounds -- may result in a 40 percent decline in immune function, making you more vulnerable to infections like colds and the flu, according to a study at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research center in Seattle.

Food Fixes

Egg Nog can be frozen in its original carton for up to a year. Thaw at least 24 hours in refrigerator before using. After opening, Egg Nog will keep for up to 3 days in your refrigerator.

Save butter wrappers in the freezer to use for greasing pans when baking.

Let cookies cool completely before storing. Store different types of cookies in separate containers so they'll keep their original flavor and texture.

Keep your sink sponge smelling fresh by pouring a little lemon on it after each use.

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

Fitness and Freebies Blog