How To Cook Flavorful Low-Sodium Family Meals

A healthy adult should consume no more than 2,300 mg of sodium a day. If you are middle-aged or older are African American or live with conditions such as high blood pressure, kidney disease or diabetes, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends no more that 1,500 mg of sodium a day. Considering that just one teaspoon of table salt has 2,325 mg of sodium, it can certainly be a challenge to stay within the recommended daily allowance.

Here are a few ways that can help you reduce the amount of sodium you consume on a daily basis:

1. Try a salt-free seasoning such as Mrs. Dash. Many foods naturally contain  sodium, which makes it easy to go over our limit just by adding a few sprinkles of salt. Opt for a salt-free option such as Mrs.Dash.
2. Be a smart shopper. When grocery shopping, buy fresh, frozen or canned “no  salt added” vegetables.  
3. Use Water. By rinsing canned foods, such as tuna fish, to rinse away some of the sodium.
4. Avoid processed foods. This may be one of the toughest, but it will definitely make a huge difference. Processed foods are quick, easy and convenient but they are also loaded with sodium! Processed foods account for most of the sodium and salt consumed. Saving a few extra minutes at lunch or dinner time is not worth the risk to your health. Eliminate processed foods when possible.
5. Read the label on everything. Sodium hides in places you might not think to look such as soy sauce and some antacids. Be sure to check the labels just to be safe.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask. As a former employee in the food service industry, I can tell you that most foods you find on the menu are loaded with salt. When you dine out, it is perfectly acceptable to ask that the cook skip the salt. Your sever will be happy to help you and you will feel much better.

*Disclaimer: I wrote this blog post while participating in the Mrs. Dash and TwitterMoms blogging program for a chance to win a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, http://mrsdash.twittermoms.com/about

Click Espresso Protein Drink Review and Giveaway

Protein is one of the body's main building blocks for muscle, bone, skin, and other tissues. I have tried several varieties of whey protein drinks as well as soy protein drinks. The reason I have tried a variety of brands is because I can never find one that actually tastes good. Sure, it may be packed full of protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, but if I need to hold my nose to gulp it down, I would rather pass.

I recently had the opportunity to try CLICK Espresso Protein Drink. CLICK is like no other protein drink mix on the market. It combines protein with double shot espresso to create a satisfying all-in-one energy drink. 

About Click

Greg and Beth Smith own a chain of women’s fitness centers in the Fresno, California area. They created CLICK after their search for a delicious, healthy, protein drink was unsuccessful. Every serving of CLICK includes 23 vitamins and minerals, a double shot espresso, 15 grams of protein and just 120 calories!

Mocha Nutritional Facts

Serving Size	2 Scoops (32g)
Calories	120
Total Fat Saturated Fat Trans Fat	1.5g 0g 0g
Cholesterol	less than 5mg
Sodium	115mg
Potassium	290mg
Total Carbohydrate Dietary Fiber Sugars	12g less than 1g 7g
Protein	15g

CLICK Mocha Protein also includes the essential vitamin and nutrients:  Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Panthothenic Acid, Phosphorus, Iodine, Magnesium (oxide), Selenium, Copper, Manganese, and Chromium.

My Initial Thoughts

Based on the nutritional information, CLICK certainly appeared to be promising. With it’s high protein level, low calorie, low sugar and low carb content, CLICK definitely has everything a good protein drink should have.

I received my CLICK Espresso Protein drink during the time that my brother was home on leave before his next assignment. He servers in the military and is extremely fit and muscular. He consumes protein drinks on a daily basis so I asked him to tell me what he thought about CLICK. As he read over the label, he told me CLICK sounds like a great product and would be highly beneficial to me.

My Review

I received a 16 ounce canister of the Mocha blend and was very impressed by the sleek (Pink/black) packaging design. I also received the CLICK Shaker, which has a 20 ounce capacity and includes a whisk ball.

The instructions suggest CLICK can be enjoyed as a hot or cold beverage. Since it’s 100° in Texas, I opted for the cold version. I have been enjoying CLICK on a daily basis and have discovered when adding ice, it is best to mix water with your protein powder. Once the protein powder is blended well, you may add ice. The first time I prepared my protein drink, I added ice to water, then my protein powder. The protein powder adhered to the ice and did not mix well. CLICK tastes great without ice, but when ice is added it reminds me of my favorite Starbucks iced beverage. CLICK is smooth and chocolaty. Best of all – it tastes like a gourmet drink rather than a protein drink and there is no bad aftertaste.

When preparing my CLICK protein drink, I used the Shaker with the included whisk ball. My drink blended well each and every time. It was so nice to be able to enjoy my protein drink with out globs of powder. The shaker is clear and includes a pink and black CLICK logo. The lid is black with a white stopper. I love the design and feel comfortable taking my shaker cup with me. I was impressed by the non-leak design. I even dropped my shaker cup when it was full, and it didn’t leak a drop. The shaker cup, lid, and whisk ball are all dishwasher safe, which makes for easy cleanup. I enjoy mine quite often though, so I just rinse with soapy water and place on the drying rack.

Each serving of CLICK contains as much caffeine as a single cup of coffee. CLICK is a great alternative to sugary sodas and energy drinks. I absolutely love the taste! Finally, a delicious protein drink, I actually want to drink. I drink two glasses of CLICK a day, and would drink more, if I could without elevating my protein intake.

I was even surprised to find out my husband enjoys CLICK too. He doesn’t normally drink coffee, but he loved CLICK so much, he stole my shaker from me. When mixing CLICK without the shaker, the majority of the powder dissolves, but there is still a small amount that may surface to the top of the liquid. I would highly recommend the shaker cup, or two if you don’t want yours disappearing.

Besides tasting absolutely delicious, and delivering protein and essential vitamins and nutrients, CLICK gave me the energy boost I was looking for. It tastes better than coffee, has less sugar and kept me going throughout the day, without feeling jittery or crashing mid-morning. Purchase information is available below. To win a canister of CLICK complete with Shaker and whisk ball, enter my CLICK Giveaway.

Purchase Information

CLICK is available in two mouth-watering flavors – Mocha and Vanilla Latte. The cost of the 16 ounce canister is $25.95. CLICK may also be purchased by individual packets. The cost for 7-packets is $16.95 or $2.95 for 1-packet. The CLICK shaker with whisk ball is $5.95.

CLICK is available nationally on Amazon.com, GNC.com, Bodybuilding.com, Netrition.com, Vitacost.com and will soon be rolling out into The Vitamin Shoppe stores nationwide. Additionally, you may click here to view all online retailers and find a store near you.

Disclaimer: I received CLICK at no cost for review purposes. The opinions & thoughts expressed are my own. I received no other compensation for my review nor was I under any obligation to give a positive review.

Win, Lose or Blog Weight Loss Competition

Win, Lose or Blog is a fun new competition designed by six lovely ladies who are on a mission to make blogland a healthier place. 

Each "season" of their competition will last eight weeks and each season they will choose eight new contestants.  Contestants will blog about their experiences and track their progress for all to see.  They will serve as an inspiration to all of us and hopefully they won't be the only ones who accept our challenge to start some healthy habits. 

Every Monday morning they will post the stats so followers can congratulate contestants who have done well and maybe give some encouragement for those that had a bad week.  In the end, the "biggest loser" will be determined by percentage of body weight lost.  The top three contestants will win some great prizes. 

Readers can also win prizes.  There are two ways to do so-
1) be the "biggest non-contestant-loser."  At the end of the competition we will ask for submissions.  You can do this by sending in 3 before pictures and 3 after pictures (a front shot, side shot, and shot of the numbers on your scale for each).

2) Simply by leaving comments!  Every comment on every post throughout the entire season will enter you for the chance to win two great prizes.  Every prize is worth at least $40!

Win, Lose or Blog will be posting all sorts of inspiration and tips throughout the contest.  Healthy recipes, fitness and nutrition information, and more.  Two of their team members are actually very knowledgeable fitness enthusiasts.  You'll have to stop by their "Meet the Team" page to see which. 

Thank you to Fawnda from Fireflies and Jelllybeans, Maria from Huff and Buff, Lindsey from Fitness for the Rest of Us, Sumo from Sumo's Sweet Stuff, and Holly from 504 Main for coming up with such a creative weight loss competition/blog!

Do You Talk To Objects: When To See An Optometrist

Last week, I was taking an evening walk around my neighborhood when I saw a poor cat just sitting there. Being the animal lover that I am, I Knelt down and began to call the cat to me. After several minutes of making my best "mew" sound and holding my hand out, I realized the cat wasn't moving. I slowing crept towards the cat, being careful to to scare it away. I finally made my way over to the stray cat. At this point, I really wished I had been wearing my eyeglasses, because the "Stray cat" was actually a fire hydrant.

As you can probably imagine, I felt like a complete idiot. Fortunately, no one was around to laugh at me ( I did enough laughing at my own expense). You may be surprised to learn I am probably not the first person to mistake an object for a person or animal. According to the Vision Council of America, approximately 75% of adults use some sort of vision correction. Of those adults, 64% of them wear prescription glasses, and about 11% wear contacts either exclusively, or with glasses.

Whether you are near-sighted or far-sighted, glasses are a easy and effective way to correct your vision. Personally, I love wearing glasses. You never truly realize how bad your vision is, until you try on a pair of prescription lenses and see everything brighter and clearer. It''s also fun to wear different style glasses for different occasions or to match your outfit for the day.

Buying glasses online doesn't have to be expensive. Glasses USA offers a great selection of designer glasses up to 70% off. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee so you can feel comfortable shopping with them online. Please don't talk to another tree or pile of brush and take care of your vision.

*This is a sponsored post.

How to Improve Metabolism to Lose Weight

Overview

Your basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the rate at which your body burns calories while at rest. Genetics has a large impact on your BMR. But did you know there are several other factors that play a role in your BMR? If you have a low BMR, you may find it difficult to lose weight and you probably feel tired more often than others. To increase your BMR, you
will need to make several small changes and stick with them. By increasing your metabolism you will be able to achieve your weight loss goals.


How to Improve Metabolism to Lose Weight

Step 1
Drink more water! Research shows people who drink between eight and twelve glasses of water a day have a higher metabolic rate than those who drink just four glasses. Since your body has to heat the water to you your core temperature, you will burn calories just from drinking water.

Step 2
Eat breakfast. I'm sure by now everyone knows they should eat breakfast, but many people don't. When you go to bed at night, your metabolism slows down. You haven't eaten in several hours, this is your body's way of protecting you from starvation. To raise your metabolism, you need to eat. Foods rich in fiber and protein will fill you up quicker and help you stay full longer.

Step 3
Eat more often. Rather than eating three large meals a day, eat six smaller meals (3 meals, 3 snacks). I know you are probably thinking, " if I eat more, I will gain more". It's actually quite the opposite. By skipping meals, you are telling your body that your are full. Skipping meals will slow your metabolism and lead to the storage of fat. The longer you go between meals, the more your body's metabolism slows down. Tip: Eat from a small plate or bowl. This way, you are eating less but tricking your mind into thinking you ate more then you actually did.

Step 4
Exercise. We all know exercise burns calories. It also helps to keep your metabolism raised for nearly an hour post-workout. In addition, exercise builds muscle, which is metabolically active tissue. Since muscle burns more calories than fat, your metabolism will go up.

Step 5
Consume more protein. Protein aids in the muscle-growth process, and muscle burns calories. Not to mention, protein will give you that satisfied feeling much longer then any other food. Choose lean meats and beans to get more protein without the extra fat.

Step 6
Drink caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant. and by adding this to your diet, your body increases its metabolic rate. If you have high blood pressure, you may want to consult with your physician. Those with high blood pressure should avoid energy drinks as they can increase your heart rate to an unsafe level. Think green tea or Oolong tea, which have added health benefits.

5 Ways To Get You Bathing Suit Ready

This is your year! No more hiding behind a enormous beach towel, wearing your baggy t-shirt or borrowing your mom's swimsuit cover-up!

1. Get your mind ready - Believe in yourself and have a positive mindset before you engage in any exercise or weight-loss program. Getting a sleep, toned body is more than just exercising. It is making a commitment to yourself and being your own motivator while pushing forward. Start by changing how you think, from I can't to I can. Think baby steps and set small daily or weekly goals that are attainable. Trying to accomplish too much too fast will only set you up for failure. Tell yourself that everyday you are moving one step closer to accomplishing your healthy/fitness goals, and you WILL do it.

2. Cardio, Cardio, Cardio - I know you are probably reaching out to slap me right now, but as much as you don't want to hear it, it is true. You have to get your heart rate up and sweat if you want to burn fat! If you are able to carry on a conversation while doing a cardio exercise, then you are not working hard enough. Plan to do cardio activity such as running, jogging, kickboxing for 30-60 minutes 3-5 times a week. Even walking for 30 minutes a day will improve your health and help build your endurance.

3. Eat Lean to Be Lean - Eating a healthy diet will not only give you a great physique, but you will also feel better and gain more energy to keep up with your workouts. Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring. You can find great recipes to help spice up your meals. Eat foods high in fiber, whole grains, lean meats, fresh fruits and veggies.

4. Weights are Your Friend - With men, this part is easy but so many women are afraid to lift weights in fear of bulking up. It's very difficult for a woman to bulk up with simple weight lifting exercises. Weights are good for you. Weight training will help to shape your body, speed up your metabolism, tone up and develop stronger bones needed to fight osteoporosis. Aim to do 45-60 minutes of 2-3 times per week.

5. Get Organized - Getting yourself organizes and clutter free will help you feel better, less stressed and more open to accept new things. It may seem like one has nothing to do with the other, but cleaning out a drawer, closet or just getting your home/office organized can lead to a healthier lifestyle. In order to be organized with your workouts, you need to be organized in your life. So go ahead,, clean out a drawer today and see how much better you feel!

Find healthy recipes at All Recipes or American Diabetes Association recipes.

The Benefits of Stretching

As we age, our muscles begin to tighten and we begin to lose the range of motion in our joints. Simple day to day tasks such as buttoning a shirt or reaching for the juice off of the top shelf at the grocery store can become extremely difficult. Stretching regularly can help to lengthen and strengthen you muscles. making daily living easier.

Everyone should stretch, regardless of their age or flexibility. Stretching should be part of your daily routine. It's easy to use an excuse such as " I'm just too busy", or " I don't have the time" , but stretching can be done for just a few minutes each day. You could easily perform stretches while watching TV, getting ready for bed, waiting in line, or even on the computer.

If you are not able to set aside time dedicated to stretching, you should at least try stretching during the activities mentioned above. You can even stretch in bed. So no excuses!

Here are just a few of the benefits you should expect from a regular stretching program:

• Reduced muscle tension
• Increased circulation
  
• Increased energy levels (resulting from increased circulation)
• Enhanced muscular coordination
• Increased range of movement in the joints

Stretching is important for people of all ages. There is no age cut off! When I worked at a WNY fitness facility, we had an 85 year old women who came in every other day. She worked out for an hour everyday, stretching and walking the treadmill. When you do stretch on a regular basis, you increase your range of motion. This means your body's joints can extend further. Your muscles will become stronger and prevent injuries. Stretching should also be done post workout to help to decrease muscle soreness.

For example stretching exercises, please visit The Women's Heart Foundation.

Cure Constipation- My Dirty Little Secret

Many people find it difficult to consume the daily recommended amount of fiber, which is 20-35g. In fact, most Americans only consume about 12-15 grams a day. I will be the first to admit, on most days I don't even come close to getting the recommended daily amount of fiber. I would take fiber tabs and powdered fiber drink mixes to compensate. But no matter what I tried, I was always constipated! It got the the point, where I would only have a bowel movement once a month, sometimes every other month.

I'm full of crap, literally! I don't want to get into too much detail as I know you don't want to hear specifically about my own bowel movements. Let me just say, I went to the doctor and was sent for a cat scan to find out why I was so stopped up. Luckily, there was no blockage, however, I was diagnosed with chronic constipation. My doctor wrote a prescription for MiraLax. This is before it was available over the counter or without a prescription. I tried this in combination with 2 (yes 2, one right after the other) saline laxatives. I hurried over to the toilet and was ready to lose 5 pounds. But, nothing happened. Over the course of several weeks, I had received numerous prescription laxatives in the form of pills, syrups, and powders. None of them helped!

Then one day, on my favorite forum, someone recommended flax seed oil. I had never heard of this stuff, but I was willing to try anything. Skeptical, I went to my grocery store and picked up a bottle of Flax Seed Oil. I took a tablespoon full and later that night I felt the urge to "go". Let's just say I was successful. The brand I used was Barlean's but I have used other brands. They all taste about the same-A nutty sweet taste. I couldn't believe flax seed oil actually worked unlike the prescriptions I had been taking.

To Help With Constipation:

Take 1-2 Tablespoons of Flax Seed Oil by mouth daily or as needed.

May also be added to your salad dressings, mixed with yogurt, cottage cheese, oatmeal or used in blended beverages & protein drinks.

Tastes great in smoothies!

Flax Seed Oil Promotes:

Heart Health
Healthy Cholesterol Levels
Joint Mobility & Bone Density
Energy & Endurance
Healthy Blood Glucose
Skin, Hair & Nail Health

Home Remedies That Actually Work

I love home remedies! For one, they are cheaper then going to the doctor or purchasing a product from the store that probably won't work anyway. Most of the ingredients found in home remedies can be found in your pantry or cupboard, saving you mega bucks at the grocery store or pharmacy. The best thing about home remedies, is the fact that they actually work! Here are a few that have been passed down from the women in my family have passed down. These are all remedies that I have tried and am proof that they really do work.

1.) Blemish/Pimple - The cure? Add a few drops of visine to a Q-Tip. The Visine will constrict the blood vessels, eliminating any redness. You can also pop the Visened Q-Tip in the freezer for a few minutes before applying. The cold temperature will reduce any swelling.

2.) Bags Under Your Eyes - Squeeze a tiny dot of Preparation H beneath your eye. We all know the main ingredient in Preparation H is used to constrict blood vessels, causing the problem area to shrink. You will have the same effect for tired baggy eyes. *Do Not Place on Your eyelids and be cautious not to get in your eyes.

3.) Abscessed Tooth - Place a tea bag in a cup/bowl. Add enough hot water to fully saturate the tea bag, usually a couple of tablespoons. Now place the tea bag on the infected tooth. The tea will draw out the infection. This was a hard one for me to believe, but I'm glad I tried it, because, I believe, its the fastest way to relieve pain from an abscessed tooth. *You want the water to be as hot as you can tolerate.

4.) Menstrual Cramps - Having ovarian cysts myself, I get monthly agonizing cramps. To relieve them, I drink Chamomile tea with Ginger Root. The Ginger will help relieve the pain.

5.) Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) - Drink Cranberry Juice! The cranberry helps prevent the bacteria from sticking to cells that line the urinary tract. If you can't tolerate the taste, AZO makes a cranberry pill you can take.

6.) Too Much Ear Wax - Place a Bottle of Baby Oil in hot water until the baby oil is warmed. Tilt your head to one side and place a few drops of warm baby oil in your ear. Then tilt your head to the other side. The baby oil will run out along with any excess wax.

7.) Dry Cracked Feet - Add 1/2 cup of Epsom Salt to a large pan of warm water. Soak until water turns cool. Not only will the epson salt soften your rough skin, but it will also remove odors and soothe any pain.

8.) Limp Hair, Lacking Volume - Add a few teaspoons of Sea Salt and water to a spray bottle. Spray generously on wet or damp hair. This will help to add volume and sexy beach waves.

9.) Swelling - Take the recommended dosage of Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is an NSAID (Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug) and will help relieve the inflammation.

10.) Bee Sting - Wet a small pinch of Tobacco and place on the area that was stung. I'm not sure how this one works, but it does and immediately.

11.) Mosquito Bite - Spray Perfume on the bite. The alcohol in the perfume will help to dry up the skin, shrinking the infected area. Trust me, my mom was always spraying me with perfume when I was a kid, and now I get to pass it on to my kids.

Get Paid To Lose Weight

Sometimes all we need in order to get on the right track to losing weight is a little motivation. And what could be more motivating than getting paid?! You can register with Healthy Wage and get paid $100.00 for losing weight. This option is free however, if you chose to register with a paid membership, you increase the amount of money you will receive from losing weight. To find out more details, click here.

Let's Talk about Sex- Or Lack Therof.

Once upon a time, I was a young woman who loved sex. Anytime and all of the time. I'm still young, 25, but that girl I once knew is long gone. Check out the most common Libido Killers:

Sex without intimacy-Hey, it's not always about sex. Try spending along time, cuddling, giving massages, having a romantic night without the kids. Learn to express your affection without actually having sex. As the intimacy builds, so will your relationship.
Depression- Many of us already know antidepressants can have a negative effect on sex drive. But did you know depression can also lower your libido?
Testosterone- Testosterone doesn't just effect men. Testosterone is linked to women's sex drives as well. Unfortunately, it has not been determined whether or not testosterone therapy is a safe and effective way to boost a woman's sex drive.
Low thyroid function, Anemia, & PCOS can also effect your sex drive.
Erectile dysfunction (ED)- ED means the loss of sex drive. But often, men with ED worry about how well they will perform that it often drains their sex drive.
Obesity- Being overweight has been linked to lack of sexual satisfaction. It's believed that this is due to a low self-esteem and possible other psychological issues.
Self Esteem- Its difficult to feel sexy when you don't feel sexy because of a poor body image. Your insecurities play a big role when it comes to your sex drive.
Parenting- Okay, so having kids does not lower your libido. But having kids does make it difficult to find time to be intimate.
Not Enough Sleep- Are you getting up too early? How about staying up too late? Maybe you fall asleep fine but have a poor quality of sleep. All of these lead to fatigue and fatigue will drain your sex drive.
Alcohol- Alcohol doesn't increase your sex drive, it only helps you feel less inebriated. Alcohol can actually numb your sex drive. The same goes for recreational drugs.
Stress- Job stress, money troubles, caring for a sick family member, relationship stress can all have a negative impact on your libido.
Medication- Some of the most common drugs linked to a decreased sex drive are: antidepressants, blood pressure medication, antihistamines, Birth Control, Synthetic progesterone-medroxyprogesterone, Anti- HIV drugs and Chemotherapy.

It is always a good idea to share your libido concerns with your physician. There are several blood tests that can be done to diagnose/rule out certain deficiencies and medical conditions. Try to have time alone once a week to de-stress. Turn off your phone, computer, tv and just relax. Plan a date night once a month to re-connect with your partner and build your intimacy. Working out can also help improve your sex drive, not to mention you will look and feel better too. You can also take a natural approach and apply vitamin E to your vagina. This will help rehydrate tissue and increase sensation. Just stick a capsule with a pin and apply several times a week, even if you aren't having sex. And don't forget about your Kegels ( contract your pelvic muscles). While they won't directly increase your sex drive, they will help improve the overall satisfaction.

We Love To Share, but Stay Away; You Don't Want This!

I have been trying to teach the importance of sharing with my 21 month old son. Since, he is an only child, he is spoiled. That's why I feel it is especially important for me to teach him to share with others without being greedy.

Well, I think he's taken it a bit too far! Can you guess what Ayden has shared with mommy?

Chicken Pox!!!

At least, I am pretty certain this is what we both have. I noticed a bump on his neck, but didn't think much of it. He's a little boy and he's always into or up to something mischievous. But yesterday I had a bump on my chin. I knew it wasn't a pimple but I have a bad habit of picking, so I picked it. The bump seemed to be gone after oozing a bit. I woke up this morning and my chin was itchy. I itched it and noticed a scab. So, I grabbed my tweezers and pulled it off. Wouldn't you know the bump is back and so is the scab. It itches so bad and is very painful from picking. There are two more bumps on each side.

This morning, Ayden had a strawberry pop-tart. He had strawberry filling all over his face. I did my best to wipe it off using a baby wipe. There was one spot he wouldn't let me get. I scrubbed and scrubbed but it wouldn't come off. Wouldn't you know, it was not strawberry filling, it's the same bump I have on my chin? Way to go mom. I'm not sure if it is Chickenpox or not. I thought we would have more, but it's ironic that we both have the same bumps on our faces. So, if you are looking to miss a few days of work, stop on by. Otherwise, stay far far away!

Tropical Traditions Virgin Coconut Oil

My Review: I was so excited to receive my Tropical Traditions Gold Label Coconut Oil. I liked it before even opening it, because this coconut oil comes in a re-usable glass jar. My Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil arrived solidified. The instructions indicate that this will happen if the Coconut Oil drops drops below 76f and in order to reliquefy, you simply place the jar in a pot of warm water. Before I took the steps to reliquefy, I opened the jar to see what it smelt like. This must be what heaven smells like! I have smelled other Coconut oils before, and none of them smelt this good.

I have heard so many great benefits from using Coconut oil. The two that interest me most are weight loss and skin care. My father has actually been taking a tablespoon of Coconut Oil daily and over the course of three months has lost 30lbs. This was enough to convince me, so this week I started doing the same. The Coconut oil tastes great. I was afraid it would be too sweet, but it actually has a very mild taste. Although, it tastes great, I was not too fond on the oil texture. To solve this, I simply added one tablespoon of Coconut Oil in with my smoothie. Now, my smoothies taste even better and I am still receiving the same benefits. I haven't lost any weight yet, but it's only been a week. I do feel like I have a lot more energy then I did before, which is the main reason I will continue using it daily.

Coconut Oil is used by many people to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema. I have Keratosis Pilaris (KP), which basically means I have severely dry skin. It looks like I have "goose-bumps" year round. As gross as this is, I compare my skin to that of an alligator; It looks dry, rough , cracked and is very itchy. I added a few tablespoons of Coconut Oil to my bath last night and my skin felt incredibly soft. Today, I haven't experienced the itchiness that I normally do. I have used dozens of prescription and non-prescription medications and lotions and none of them gave me the results that Tropical Traditions Gold Label Coconut Oil did. I plan to use this at least twice a week in a hot bath to find out if my skin will improve even more.

As I said before, I will continue adding one tablespoon to my diet and one to my bath. Be sure to view my one month follow up to find out if this Coconut Oil has helped with my weight and skin. I can't wait to see the results!!


Product Information: Tropical Traditions Gold Label Coconut Oil is made from organic, fresh coconuts in the Philippines, more specifically Mt. Banahaw and rural areas in Quezon Province. Serving Size: 1 Tbsp., Calories 117, Saturated Fat 11.8g. No Trans fat.

Did you know you can cook with Coconut oil? Tropical Traditions has hundreds of recipes, including drinks, desserts, entrees, soups and more. They look very tasty, I can't wait to try some of them!

Tropical Traditions also has a Referral Program, so if you place an order with them as a first-time customer, please select “Referred by a friend” and in the box that says “How did you hear of us?” enter my sponsor ID number (5891072). By telling Tropical Traditions that I referred you, you will receive a complimentary copy of the book Virgin Coconut Oil: How it has changed people’s lives and how it can change yours! by Brian and Marianita Shilhavy with your first order! This book is filled with testimonies and research showing how healthy coconut oil is, and it also includes over 85 recipes showing how one can incorporate coconut into their diet.



Disclaimer: Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

Vinegar Can Be Used For What?!?!

For Years I have been using apple cider vinegar as a salad dressing and a dip for my french fries. You've heard the saying " An apple a day keeps the doctor away". Well in this case, using Apple Cider Vinegar on a regular basis offers many health benefits.

Here is a list of the most common uses for Apple Cider Vinegar:

• Control Appetite/Weight Loss
• Leg Cramps
• Sprained Muscles
• Cough Reliever
• Nausea
• Treat Blemishes
• Burns
• Reduce Infection
• Improve Memory
• Bladder Infections
• Sunburn
• Lower Blood Pressure
• Lower Cholesterol
• Help Arthritis
• Cold Reliever
• Cleaning Products
  

I truly believe in the benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar. I use it, a lot and I get a cold maybe once every two years. I have used it for burns, and it stops the burning almost instantly. As for the blood pressure and cholesterol, well it's possible it works for those reasons. If I stopped using vinegar on french fries, My blood pressure and cholesterol probably would improve!

There are hundreds, of uses for Apple Cider Vinegar. Click this link to find out more uses of Apple Cider Vinegar!

Mirena Contraceptive

I haven't shared my opinions regarding medications in the past. The reason being is because every person is different and I believe medications don't have the same effect on everyone. What I find works for me may be the least appropriate option for you. With that being said, I would like to share facts and opinions of Mirena with you. No birth-control is right for everyone, but if you think Mireana may be right for you, please consult with your physician.

What is Mirena?
The Facts: Mirena is an intrauterine contraceptive that delivers small amounts of hormone directly to the uterus. Made of soft, flexible plastic, it is put in place by your health care provider during an office visit. Mirena is birth control that lasts as long as you want, for up to 5 years. Mirena works continuously, without a pill, without a daily hassle. Once Mirena is properly placed, all you have to do is check the threads once a month. Your health care provider can show you how. If you have trouble finding the threads, be sure to use a backup form of birth control and call your health care provider.
What Mirena Does?
The Facts: Mirena is over 99% effective and is one of the most effective forms of birth control. Mirena prevents pregnancy for as long as you want, up to 5 years. If you plan to become pregnant, your physician can remove Mirena for you and you & you can try to become pregnant immediately.

When Mirena should be placed:
Mirena should be placed within 7 days of the start of your period.

Mirena Bay Be Right For You
Mirena offers a flexible option if you have had at least one child and:
You had a baby and want to explore your birth control options.
You want to have more children*
You are unsure if you want more children*
You are happy with your family size the way it is
You want birth control without a daily routine

My Review
I had never heard of Mirena until my son was born. During one of my post-op visits my physician suggested Mirena for me. At first I was skeptical. The biggest concern for me was whether or not it actually worked. I had a newborn and was not ready for another. After viewing Mirena's Website, and discussing it further with my doctor, I felt at easy with my worries and scheduled an appointment to have Mirena inserted.

Besides preventing pregnancy, the cost is what really caught my attention. Most Insurances will cover Mirena, and mine does. I only had to pay my $30.oo deductible whereas when I was on the pill I was paying $270 each year. Over a 5 year period, that is a savings of $1,200.00!

Inserting Mirena is "a piece of cake". You prepare for Mirana just as you would for your Pap Smear. It's not at all painful. In fact, my doctor was done before I even knew she had inserted it. The first few days were a little uncomfortable because I could still feel the thread. This is totally normal. After a few days, the threads attach to your lining and I didn't even know it was there.

I absolutely hated trying to remember to take a pill every day at the same time. I hated the costs associated with monthly prescriptions and doctor's visits. I've looked into Nuva Ring, but you have to replace that each month, which more hassle then I'm willing to accept. Mireana is definitely a great birth-contol. I don't know how I managed without it all of these years. If you think Mirena might be right for you or are interested in learning more, please check out their official website.

Any & All information found posted about Mirena is based from my personal experience and should be used for informational purposes. I am not a medical physician and information provided by me is not meant to replace medical advice, I am basing my review on my experience with Mirena. This was not purchased for the purpose of a review.

Tune-Up's For Your Body

Tune up your hearing by turning down the volume on your iPod. Of course, those cute little ear-buds are fashionable, but they are also the leading contributor to hearing loss. The president of the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, Dr. Engelmann, Au.D says the unique shape of ear-buds increase sound pressure on the ear canal. Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting people over the age of 40. Help change the statistics, improve your health and turn that music down!

Tune Up Your Blood Pressure by standing up straight. Did you know there is a link between high blood pressure and bad posture? There is a direct connection between neck muscles and the part of the brain system that plays a key role in regulating heart rate and blood pressure. When you hunch, your neck muscles send a signal to your brain to speed up your heart rate, which in-turn increases your blood pressure. When you stand straight, your brain keeps your heart rate steady and your blood pressure will decrease.

Tune Up Your Heart by replacing soda with orange juice and/or milk. If you drink ust one can of soda a day, you are at a 48% higher risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome. Metabolic Syndrome Raises your risk of suffering a heart attack by as much as 4X over just a 10 year period. Look for new varieties of orange juice and milk that have been fortified with plant sterols. These natural substances are very effective at lowing your cholesterol. Just 2 grams a day can lower your total cholesterol about 10% in only 2 weeks. Look for Minute Maid's Premium Heart Wise, Unilever's Promise Activ Supershot, and Kroger's Active Lifestyle Fat Free Milk.

Secret Causes of Weight Gain

Your Taste Buds
Every 1:4 people are considered "under-tasters", meaning they have fewer taste-buds & therefore don't register sweet flavors as easily as everyone else. As a result, they need a lot more sugar to receive the same satisfaction. They aren't just getting added sugar, they are getting added calories.

What Can I do?
Make your taste-buds more sensitive to sweets by avoiding foods overloaded with sugar such as soda and candy. The decrease in sweetness will make your taste-buds more sensitive to sugary flavors, so you will need less to be satisfied.

Tip:
Substitute a pinch of cinnamon for sugar. It will give your taste-buds the same satisfaction, without all of those added calories. Plus, cinnamon helps to regulate your blood sugar levels.


Your "Healthy" Lunch
Many of us think ordering a salad is a great substitute for a Whopper or Big Mac. Scientists say we are probably taking in more calories and fat for two reasons. First, the salad could easily have more calories if it is loaded with cheese and dressing. Second, when we eat something "healthy", subconsciously we think we can eat more of it and we tell ourselves we can have a high calorie dessert because we had a "healthy" salad.

What Can I Do?
Keep track of the actual calories and fat (not just the estimated). Most chain restaurants now post this on their websites and have available to you in the restaurant.

Tip:
Salads can be great for you. Just know all of the ingredients. Don't be afraid to ask your server the next time you go out to eat. That's what they are there for and most of them are happy to answer your questions. You can also order your dressing on the side so that you are able to control the amount that is used.

Oil & Vinegar is not always the best option. I have been to restaurants that use Vegetable oil instead of olive oil. If you chose oil and vinegar, ask what type of oil is used.