Funnies!!!!!

I was recently introduced to a blog called Hyperboyle and a half. It is the funniest blog I have come across in a really long time. What a great blog. If you are in need of a good chuckle, a smile or had a really bad day, I strongly recommend that you log on to Hyperboyle and a half and read on. I guarantee you will laugh-its that funny.

Did you know:

• 100 laughs is equivalent to 15 minutes of cardio on a bike
• Laughing release endorphins that have pain relieving properties that are similar to morphine
• 15 muscles contract in our face when we laugh
• Laughing exercises the diaphragm and contracts muscles in our abs for a good belly workout
• Laughing reduces stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine and dopamine
• The average person laughs 13 times a day

Smile:)

CrossFit Challenge

Before I begin this blog entry, I’d like to address that I haven’t written in awhile due to a new job, moving and a few changes that had me busy for awhile. Albeit, it’s no excuse and I will write more often. This being said, despite not writing, I haven't stopped searching for latest nutritional products, working out or participating in new classes like the CrossFit challenge that a friend of mine introduced me to. And on this note, let me tell you about this great new class I found this summer.

A friend of mine, recently introduced me to a new fitness regime called CrossFit. A true testament of what fitness is all about. A regime that is widely used by police academies, tactical operation teams, military special operations units, martial artists, and athletes. What I experienced in this class was vastly different than what I had been use to. Such as traditional workout routines like, running, weight training, reps, sets, rest and fancy gyms. Rather, this class was held in a garage with a gym like setting. I kid you not. It was actually pretty cool. There was sponge floor, people doing sprints, hammering big old tires with sludge hammers, doing pull ups and chin ups, climbing ropes and doing burpees and they were all writing reps, sets and times on white boards. For those that know me, I’m the typical “I can do it no problem kind of girl.” I’m always up for a challenge. When I attended my first class, I immediately looked at my friend and said, “pshhh, NO PROBLEMO, I can do this.” I dropped my water bottle and mp3 and asked, “where do I start?” So we started…. with what I thought was a workout but to my dismay, it was only the beginning of a warm up…

Lets fast forward a bit to one rainy Saturday to which I thought, cool, a day of rest. But nope, rise and shine and a wakeup call, we all headed to a soccer field and were given a workout program. In one hour, we all completed as many burpees, lunges, sprints and clapping push ups as possible around a mile track-in the rain. I was smack up against the pavement in puddles of water and dirt as I exploded onto the floor for my last push up. At the end of the class, I was lying flat on the grass, soaked, dirty, out of breath and my muscles feeling like rubber. And, I felt like I had the best workout.

I think it’s worth mentioning that when I started, I had a shoulder injury from playing tennis. However, it was quickly rehabilitated after a few classes. I believe it healed as a result of numerous CrossFit classes that strengthened my shoulder muscles. The instructor was great at tailoring each class for individuals with any injuries. I’m happy to say that after I attended a series of classes, I have yet to feel any pain since then. Thanks Chris!

Now, the in on what is CrossFit for those of you that don’t know. I want to start by telling you what Crossfit is not. It is not about specializing as traditional workout routines suggest. Example; isolating muscle groups and working out triceps and biceps on one day and a long stroll for 60 minutes on a treadmill. Rather, it makes use of three different models to ensure the broadest and most general fitness possible. Overall, becoming well rounded and the best at everything. Believe it, it is possible.

CrossFit adheres to three standards and each model is critical and distinct in evaluating overall fitness of an individual or athlete. The three models/standards that make up CrossFit are set below:

1. Ten Physical Skills: One develops and improves their fitness to the extent that it improves each of these ten skills: cardiovascular/respiratory endurance, stamina, flexibility, power, coordination, agility, balance and accuracy.

2. Fitness is about performing at ones best at all tasks and in varying combinations encouraging one to disinvest in rests periods, sets, reps and routine. Every day of training is different.

3. CrossFit requires competency and training in three metabolic pathways. Excluding one of these pathways and not recognizing the importance of these three metabolic engines is arguably a common fault in fitness training.

1. Phosphagen: highest powered activities that last about ten seconds

2. Glycolytic: moderate powered activities that last up to several minutes

3. Oxidative: low powered activities that last in excess of several minutes.

*note: phosphagen and glycolytic pathways are known as anaerobic and oxidative is aerobic.

Have you ever noticed the physiques of the athletes who sprint (majority of training time spent in anaerobic activity) versus long distance runners (time spent in aerobic training)? The difference you’re sure to notice. In a CrossFit Class, conditioning also known as cardio, consist of interval training. Why? Because it is the most effective way without compromising the loss of speed, power and strength as you would performing activity categorized at an aerobic level. Just to back up a bit, aerobic activity (low powered efforts), although effective in losing body fat and required in many sports, contributes to a decrease in muscle mass, strength and speed. Anaerobic activity (explosive efforts), also a very effective fat blaster, is the most effective in dramatically improving speed, power and strength. It is said that anaerobic activity can be used to develop a very high level of aerobic fitness without comprising muscle loss. Having said this, CrossFit combines the two into interval training which is based on mixing bout of work and rest in timed intervals.

Overall, CrossFit combines all the critical elements of models 1-3 described above and molds men and woman into a gymnast, olympic weightlifter and sprinters. After many classes, I felt energetic, fit, flexible and toned. If you are looking at changing things up a bit at the gym and want different results than what you are getting now, try a CrossFit class. I guarantee you will enjoy your workouts and have a new outlook on fitness because of the results it yields, the challenge you undertake, the confidence you build and how fun it is.

* Classes were done at CrossFit Markham

Two Great All Natural Protein Powders

I was on a search recently for a great tasting vegan protein powder and came across "Harmonized Vegan Protein" by Progressive Nutritional. After all the vegan protein powders I've tasted and have come across in my search for an "all natural" vegan protein powder, I think this is a great pick. The protein contains a blend of 5 non-GMO vegetarian proteins: peas, organic sprouted brown rice, organic hemp,cranberry and chia protein. As you can see, the company tries to include as many organic ingredients as possible. It is free of artificial ingredients and has essential and non essential fatty acids, EFA's, minerals and vitamins. As for the sweetening effect, it has stevia rather than aspartame or other artificial sweeteners commonly found in most protein powders. It tastes great and contains a whooping 25g of protein per 35g. Overall, it is a great source of protein for people looking to increase their protein intake but wanting to avoid an animal or dairy based diet.

Opting for a dairy based protein powder? Well, Progressive Nutritional has "Harmonized Protein" containing five quality New Zealand sourced proteins. So what is New Zealand based protein? It is the cleanest and purest form of protein in the world and is highly recommended by Naturopathic doctors. New Zealand protein is derived from cattle that is free of hormones, including rBGH, screened for 250 chemical and agricultural contaminants & free of antibiotics. The protein powder contains no artificial sweeteners and flavors, has 24g of protein per 30g and has organic mineralized sea vegetables, which are known for their alkalizing effect and trace mineral content. Last but not least it tastes great. It is a great blend with various fruits and vegetables such as spinach, kale and carrots. Or just give it a shake with your favorite juice, milk or water and off you go.

All Progressive Nutritional products are also certified by a Naturopathic doctor who is involved in the development of all the products. The next time you are out shopping for protein powder, I would certainly give this brand a try. My two personal favorites based on natural ingredients, organic ingredients, purity, digestion, non-GMO, source, the amount of protein per scoop and of course taste.

2010 Total Health Show-Toronto

So what did I do this weekend? On Saturday March 13, I headed out to the good old “ 2010 Total Health Expo.” For you not so savvy nutrition junkies, a health show is basically that- a health convention...ha ha....just kidding! The “Total Health Show” started out back in 1978 and since then it has grown and become one of the most popular events for those in the natural health industry. It has attracted the most high profile leaders in the holistic health industry who come together and offer workshops, lectures and speak about special topics in holistic health.

The show consists of hundreds of exhibitors such as my personal favourites, Genuine Health, Vega Sport, Interactive Nutrition, Progressive Nutritional, and Blue Mountain Organics (sampled and offered through Upaya Natural) Some even give away free samples. Those with much larger marketing budgets of course.

My experience: When I walked into the show I was expecting to receive a hemp/organic delegate bag or just any bag to carry around and use as safe storage for all the wonderful products, samples and brochures, which I was expecting to carry out. But to my disappointment, there were no bags or free samples. Many health companies promoting all natural protein powder did not have any samples which was surprisingly shocking considering a convention is primarily used to introduce products to consumers. I wanted to introduce my friend to a new vegetarian protein powder that I really like. Unfortunately, there were no samples, so my friend was reluctant to buy a large container given that many protein powders taste completely different. For someone making the transition from a dairy based protein powder to vegan, samples would have been nice. Nonetheless, the show was still had a great vibe and was a good time.

My personal favourite was the Upaya Naturals Booth who provided samples of the new Blue Mountain Oragnics "Cashew Creamery, Raw & Organic, Non-Dairy Ice Cream." It’s half the saturated fat of dairy ice cream, all natural, contains heart healthy monosurated fat, (like that of olive oil), sweetened with all natural agave nectar and has a creamy delicious taste. Need I say more?! My second favourite bwas the table with the abundance of organic Goji Berries by Sun Life Goji. And might I add my personal favourite in the replace of popcorn at the movie theatre. Indeed, I indulged in handfuls of Goji Berries while walking around the show enjoying the fresh scent of honey & lavender aromas in the room in search of new natural products and samples. If you haven`t had these or have not heard about them, click here for the nutritional facts on Goji Berries. You may want to add them into your diet as a healthy snack. My third favourite was Bee's Universe. I was eventually peeled away from the booth once I hydrated myself with their honey hand cream. It smelled so sweet and felt so soothing on the skin. For honey lovers, Bee’s Universe had various assortments of honey that was just delicious- no not the hand cream, the honey. It was “Oh So Yummy!” Lastly, I took a wealth of information out the door with me. In particular, I learned about Bee Pollen Supplements, sold by Bees Universe. If you didn't know this, (because I didn’t) Bee Pollen is known as natures most complete food and as prescribed by some of the most well known traditional health practitioners, such as Hippocrates. Let me explain...

Bee Pollen has many nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. It has 12 vitamins, 28 minerals, 11 enzymes, 14 essential fatty acids, 11 carbohydrates. It is used to increase energy levels, enhance performance, stamina, strength and increased speed of recovery for world class athletes. The nutrients in bee pollen contain proteins, fats, vitamins B, C, D, E, and beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, selenium, nucleic acids, lecithin, and cysteine are all beneficial to counteracting the effects of radiation therapy which is administered as a form of treatments for cancer. The anti-oxidants strengthen the immune system (see a case study by Bee’s Universe) and treats nausea & decreased appetite after radiation treatments. Other benefits of bee pollen include: treating sleep disorders, hay fever and allergies, fertility, menopause, prostatitis and bleeding ulcers.

So as you can see, although there were limited samples and no delegate bags, the information I gathered and the new products I found made it all worth my while. For the not so savvy nutrition junkie, maybe you can try it out next year to learn a few tips, ask questions about certain conditions you may have and want to treat and get introduced to products that may be natural and better for your health.

Nutrition Junkie Connects with NutriSup Law

Nutrition Junkie connects with NutriSup Law also known as "The Nutritional and Dietary Supplement Law Blog." NutriSup Law recently added Nutrition Junkie to their list of Blogrolls. NutriSup Law is a newsworthy blog about legal matters pertaining to the nutritional and dietary supplement industry and is a great source to keep abreast of industry news. You can subscribe (as I have) to receive industry news as it gets published on the site for all you nutrition fans who want to keep up to date. The blog is published by Attorney Joel B. Rothman with the national firm of Arnstein & Lehr, LLP and NutriCompliance, a regulatory compliance firm. Check out the NutriSup Law Blog by clicking here.

Brands Of Fish Oil Contain High Levels Of PCB's

Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acids which is believed to be a major health benefit. However, a recent test conducted by The Mateel Group revealed that certain brands contained very high levels of PCB’s ( polychlorinated biphenyl )- manmade industrial chemicals that were banned back in the 1970s because they cause cancer and birth defects. These findings along with a lawsuit against six supplement companies and two retailers has shaken the multi-million dollar supplement market.

The Mateel Group, along with two citizen environmentalists, filed a lawsuit against eight supplement companies for alleged violations against proposition 65, which requires that consumers be warned about chemical exposures to PCB’s through proper labeling. Tests concluded that three of the ten supplement brands contained much more than 90 nanograms of the carcinogen. This is above the limit that people should be exposed to, according to California Law. The three a supplement companies are as follow: Nature Made Cod Liver Oil, Now Foods' Salmon Oil & Double Strength Cod Liver Oil.

Defendants include the world's largest producer of omega-3 fish oil, Houston-based Omega Protein, as well as drug stores Rite Aid Corp and CVS Caremark Corp. Other defendants include" General Nutrition Corp, a subsidiary of GNC Acquisition Holdings Corp, Now Health Group Inc, Pharmavite LLC, the maker of the NatureMade brand of supplements, Solgar Inc and TwinLab Corp. All of the following manufacturers are said to be in violation of Proposition 65 for not disclosing any non-zero PCB levels in their products.

A guide to select quality fish oil:

• Look for a brand that is both "pharmaceutical grade" and "molecularly distilled." This will ensure the product is free of impurities such as mercury, PCBs and other contaminants.

“Pharmaceutical grade” fish oil is the highest level of purity a product can have. This means the ingredients in the fish oil are over 99% pure, with no binders, fillers, dyes, or unknown substances.

“Molecular distillation” is a purification method which is conducted in vacuum. It is the only process that can effectively remove metals, PCBs and other harmful toxins to a level that is perfectly safe for human consumption.

• Ensue the product has been tested by a third party
• Look for low oxidation levels

Vegetarian options: (* indicates highest traces of Omega 3)

• English walnuts

• Flax oil*

• Flax seed (ground)*

• Hemp Milk/Beverages

• Hemp oil*

• Hemp seed / hemp nut (ground)*

• Olive oil

• Leafy green vegetables (small amounts, but a good omega-3 to omega-6 ratio)

• Pumpkin seeds

• Soybeans

The Low Down On Lactose Intolerance: Alternative Medicine and Nutrition

I have met many people in my days, including family members who suffer from lactose intolerance. Aka lactase deficiency. Lactose intolerance is an irritable little bugger that causes painful stomach cramps, gas & bloating thirty minutes to two hours after eating or drinking foods that contain lactose.

So where can you find Lactose? Basically in just about anything these days. It is found in milk of mammals, including cows, goats, and sheep. Foods that contain lactose include dairy products, such as cream, cheese, some yogurts, margarine, salad dressings, biscuits and chocolate and some breakfast cereals. It’s also added as filler in medications. Of all these, milk has the highest amount of lactose.

So what is lactose intolerance? It is the inability to metabolize lactose (a milk sugar) due to the absence of an enzyme in the digestive system which helps breaks down and absorbs lactose when consumed.

After eating/drinking something that contains lactose, it passes down the esophagus and goes into the stomach, where it is digested. The digested food then passes into the small intestine. Normally, the cells that line the small intestine produce an enzyme called lactase. The lactase enzyme breaks down the lactose into glucose and galactose (a type of sugar). They are then absorbed into the bloodstream. However, this is where people have problems. If the body does not produce the enzyme required to breakdown the lactose, the unprocessed portion moves through the digestive system into the large intestine where the normal intestinal bacteria interacts with it. This causes typical symptoms of lactose intolerance such as the ones mentioned above.

You might find this part interesting. Lactose intolerance ranges (in terms of %) by ethnicity and increases with age. Did you know that almost all Asians and Native Americans are lactose intolerant? And up to 80% of African Americans and Hispanic Americans? According to research, their ancestors did not eat dairy foods, so their bodies cannot digest dairy and their genes have been passed from generation to generation. For a detailed chart by ethnicity click here and scroll down.

Sad but true, there is no way to cure lactose intolerance. For most people, you can find relief by reducing the amount of dairy products you eat and using alternatives to dairy or substitutes. In every grocery store you will find it very easy to find “lactose free” products these days. You can also get milk that is made from soy, rice, oats, potatoes, almonds, peanut, hazelnut and even peas. Almond milk, made by Blue Diamond (unsweetened vanilla flavor) is one of my favorites and is very tasty. In addition yogurts, (containing live bacteria), sour cream, cottage cheese and hard cheeses (such as Edam and Cheddar) are all considered fermented dairy products that have been broken down by substances (yeast, bacteria, or other micro-organisms) and are easier to digest than fresh dairy products. So as you can see, there are many variations and alternatives to dairy that you can choose from.

So you are probably thinking that alternatives are great but what about the health benefits of eating dairy such as calcium, protein, vitamins A, B12, and D? Dairy also helps the body absorb magnesium and zinc. And you're right? Dairy products are essential for a healthy diet. Without these essential vitamins, calcium and minerals, this increase the risk of developing osteoporosis. So how might one go about getting the recommended daily intake of all this good stuff? It is important to eat other foods that contain the same vitamins, minerals and calcium as part of your daily diet such as:

• broccoli

• cabbage

• dried fruit

• sardines, salmon, and pilchards

• kale (a leafy green vegetable)

• nuts (almonds, brazil nuts, and sesame seed)

• soya beans

• soya drinks with added calcium

• tofu

You have probably heard of the word Probiotics with alternative medicine being at the forefront of discussion these days. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when ingested, have beneficial effects on the prevention or treatment of disease. Probiotics have also been reported to help the body digest lactose, thereby alleviating malabsorptive symptoms from excessive lactose. It also helps with symptoms such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome & inflammatory bowel disease.

So where can you find this fancy stuff? Well you don’t have to go very far. Probiotics are available as active or "live" cultures in some yogurts. Yogurts contain a lactase enzyme produced by the bacterial cultures used to make the yogurt. However, many commercial brands contain milk solids, increasing the lactose content so it’s important to look for yogurt that has live cultures.

Acidophilus (lactic acid bacteria) is a name given to a group of probiotics that breaks lactose in the intestine into short-chain fatty acids and other substances that can be absorbed by the colon. Acidophilus is available as a dietary supplement and found in the refrigerated section of health food stores.

The following are most often used for lactose intolerance:

• Lactobacillus acidophilus

• Lactobacillus bulgaricus

• Streptococcus salivarius

• Lactobacillus reuteri

• Lactobacillus plantarum

• Streptococcus thermophilus

For those finding it difficult to cut back on dairy, a lactase substitute (in pill or liquid form) is also available to replace the lactase that the body cannot produce. This can be effective in helping the digestive system to digest the lactose in the meal if you decide to have that ice cream you are craving for.

So now you have the low down on lactose intolerance. Perhaps “Skinny Bitch,” a book written by Rory Freedman was right. An amazing book might I add! You may never look at dairy the same way again and possibly never eat/drink it for a long time. The book discusses how research studies show that milk is the cause of acne, anemia, anxiety, ADD, allergies, asthma, obesity, heart disease, diabetes, autism, multiple cancers and of course lactose intolerance. Have you ever thought that maybe our bodies are not capable of breaking down dairy as we age? Study after study has shown that lactose intolerance increases as we get older. Should we continue to eat or drink dairy as adults especially that of a mammal? A good quote taken from "Skinny Bitch In The Kitchen" says, “just like human milk is for baby humans, cows’ milk is for baby cows. We’re the only species on the planet that drinks the milk of another species. We’re also the only species on the planet that drinks the milk as adults….There are so many awesome alternatives to dairy products. Get with the program, bitches.” (Kim Barnouin and Rory Freedman, 2007)

... And to this I conclude.

(Source)"Excerpt: Skinny Bitch In The Kitchen." MSNBC. 09 January 2008. March 2010. http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/22553738/

The Power Of Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass was first discovered in the 1930'a by Charles Schnabel, a food scientist who made the attempt to bring back dying chickens to a healthy state. Charles discovered that chickens fed on mixtures that contained a high level of wheat grass, were healthier and had 150% better egg production than other hens. He went on to conduct research and experiments, which were later funded by Quaker Oats and American Dairies Inc. to determine the benefits of wheatgrass for human consumption.

In the 1960s, a women named, Ann Wigmore re-discovered the benefits of wheat grass and healed herself of colon cancer. Not long after, Ann Wigmore along with other scientist developed a diet which is now taught and offered at the Hippocrates Health Institute, based on the philosophy, “ let food be thy medicine” to heal critical illness and diseases. The diet/program is reported to be very effective in treating many illnesses such as cancer and is based on the consumption of wheatgrass juice and a raw food diet enriched with over 13 vitamins. Many people who have visited the Institute, founded by Ann Wigmore, and have participated in the program have shared miraculous stories of being cured of many forms of illnesses, including cancer. Click here to view testimonials.

So what exactly is wheatgrass? Wheatgrass is a wheat plant and acts as a blood purifier, cleanser, and detoxifier. It contains the powerful green pigment called chlorophyll. Chlorophyll plays a vital role in transporting oxygen to every cell in the body. With oxygen in the body's cells, cancer cells cannot manifest and the body can function at the optimal level fighting off disease, harmful bacteria, and cancer. Did you know that chlorophyll has the same molecular makeup of blood? The only difference is that of the metallic atom element. Human blood or hemoglobin consists of iron, while in Chlorophyll the metallic atom is magnesium. Why is this important? because when chlorophyll is consumed, the blood absorbs it quickly allowing new red blood cells form and cleansing the body.

Wheatgrass comes in the form of a juice and contains 70% chlorophyll. It also comes in a powder or tablet form. You cannot eat or cook wheatgrass due to the body's inability to breakdown the plant in its raw form. You will also be happy to know that wheatgrass is different from the grain and refined grain products that people often develop allergies to. It does not contain gluten found in grain, which is the main critical component of wheat resulting in allergic reactions.Therefore, if you're allergic to wheat, wheatgrass is an exception to anyone suffering from wheat allergies.

Now for the miraculous benefits of wheatgrass, which can also be found in more detail on the Hippocrates Health Institute website by clicking here.

-Increases red blood-cell count and lowers blood pressure.

-Cleanses the blood, organs and gastrointestinal tract of debris

-Aids in reducing blood pressure by dilating the blood pathways throughout the body.

-Stimulates the thyroid gland, correcting obesity, indigestion

-Restores alkalinity to the blood.

-Used to relieve many internal pains, and has been used successfully to treat peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, constipation, diarrhea, and other complaints of the gastrointestinal tract.

-Powerful detoxifier, and liver and blood protector.

-Fights tumors and neutralizes toxins.

-Externally applied to the skin can help eliminate itching almost immediately.

-Soothes sunburned skin and aids in healing cuts, burns, scrapes, rashes, poison ivy, athlete's foot, insect bites, boils, sores, open ulcers, tumors.

-Neutralizes toxic substances like cadmium, nicotine, strontium, mercury, and polyvinyl chloride.

-Greatly increases energy levels when consumed daily.

-Cleanses the blood and helps rejuvenate aging cells and slows the aging process down. It helps to tighten loose and sagging skin.

Now that you know a bit about wheatgrass, you can now begin to incorporate it into your diet or as a healing remedy. Never underestimate the power and the ability of the natural wonders of the world that god provided to combat illness and disease.

A Cup Of Chamomile Reduces Anxiety: Tried, Tested and True

Feeling stressed, overwhelmed or anxiety ridden? Try drinking a cup of chamomile. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, reports that "chamomile extract therapy was found to be efficacious for mild-moderate GAD". (Medical News Today) Those who participated in the study and consumed chamomile, reported changes in GAD (General Anxiety Disorder) compared to those that had the placebo. Unlike many other claims to herbal remedies which have no supportive data, this was backed by scientific study. So the next time you're feeling anxiety ridden, try sipping on a hot cup of chamomile. To read the full article "The Calming Power of Chamomile" published by Medical News Today (Feb 11, 2010) click here.

Get Your Butt Kicked: Phenomenal Fitness Bodies Boot Camp

I recently attended this phenomenal fitness boot camp held by personal trainer Drew Miller. Boy did I get my butt kicked. The class consisted of 6 people and based on circuit training. For those that don't know what circuit training is, its a combination of high-intensity aerobics and resistance training designed to target fat loss, muscle building and heart-lung fitness. In this program, a "circuit" was the completion of 6 exercises (each performed at 1 minute intervals to your maximum potential) When one circuit is complete, you begin the first exercise again for another circuit. (6 exercises at 1 minute intervals. Repeated 4 times)

Now these weren't just any stations or exercises, they were hardcore leg, butt and hamstring exercises that worked every muscle in your lower body. Including the ones I didn't know I had. Man was it awesome! There were dead lifts, reversed lunges, kettle bell exercises and butt blasting moves that really had Drew listening to us exhale and inhale. (He wants to hear everyone breath or else you might be adding double time for everyone else in the class) For the first time, I actually left a class feeling like I had the best leg workout ever. The best part was that Drew took the time with each individual correcting form and pushing each person to their maximum. When you felt like you couldn't do anymore, he would be right there in front of you (with eyes at the back of is head) pushing you through the last 20 seconds. With his help, you end up pushing yourself beyond your limit and it's the best feeling. Well not exactly in the moment. Basically, it felt like a one on one session with a personal trainer.

The objective of the Phenomenal Fitness Bodies is to provide an intense, dynamic and challenging group of exercises in a boot camp format. Each program is designed to promote strength, flexibility, endurance & stamina, power, proper nutrition, as well as utilizing our abilities of agility, balance and speed. For anyone looking to build strength, tone, melt away excess body fat or improve physical performance, I would highly recommend Phenomenal Fitness Bodies to complement any nutrition/health regime you are following. After all, whats "healthy" without exercise.

Drews vision for creating Phenomenal Fitness Bodies is to share his knowledge and passion for health and fitness to anyone looking to improve their physical, mental, and spiritual conditions. Graduating with a sociology degree from York University, Drew has been able to utilize his strength in social skills as well as his continuing education in the health and fitness industry to spread the awareness and effectiveness of living an active and healthy lifestyle. He became a certified personal trainer through Canadian Fitness Professionals (Can Fit Pro) in 2003. Drew’s continuing education includes certifications in BOSU Integrated Trainer through TWIST Conditioning, Kettle bell Trainer Specialist level I & II through the Kettlebell Training Academy, and Sports Nutrition through The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). Drew turned his passion into a profession and created Phenomenal Fitness Bodies.

For more information about Phenomenal Fitness Bodies click here.

Melamine In Milk Products Sold In China Yet Again!

I wouldn't normally blog about the same entry twice in two days but I am. Yesterdays entry was about the contamination of milk in the EU as a result of reheating milk and the way in which it is stored. Today, I came across another interesting factoid in the news about milk which I thought was worth noting. This one is about melamine found in milk products which are sold in China yet again! The same outbreak and product scandal in 2008 that sickened 300,000 people and killed six is said to be back on the market. Three companies were discovered in China selling milk products with expiry dates dating back to early 2009.

So lets juts refresh our memories and understand exactly what is Melamine. According to a report published by Public Health Canada in 2008, it said, "melamine is a chemical used in a number of commercial and industrial applications, is unsafe for human consumption. Melamine is not approved or permitted in food in Canada. Consumption of melamine may lead to reproductive damage, bladder or kidney stones, bladder cancer, acute kidney failure and death. " (Public Health Canada, 2008)

Ling, a Guizhou provincial government spokeswoman said "health officials have continued to target distributors who sold melamine-tainted milk to stores, but some distributors — wrongly assuming the government scaled back its crackdown — continue to sell it." (CBC News) Obviously there are still greedy individuals and companies out there who have a complete disregard for public safety. China has recently launched a new investigation in attempt to clean up the mess that spilled in 2008. Indeed, China needs to tighten up product safety measures and food supply chain.

Study: Reheating Milk and Microbial Contamination

A research study from the University of Valencia (UV) was published by ScienceDaily on Jan. 29, 2010. Scientists examined 265 batches of milk and ready-to-use milk derivatives and checked whether their microbial quality fell into line with European Union regulations. It concluded that one-third of samples of milk and dairy products analysed in various restaurants and bars across Valencia (Spain) exceeded the microbe contamination limits set by the EU. Moreover, the samples were deemed unfit for human consumption.

Outcome of study

· 35% of the dairy products sampled exceeded the maximum contamination levels established by EU law for enterobacteriaceae

· 31% exceeded the limits set for mesophilic aerobic microorganisms

· 2% of the samples of hot milk (kept in jugs or stainless steel thermos ) tested positive for the bacteria Escherichia coli .

· Custards, mousses, puddings and crème caramels had the highest levels of contamination with microorganisms. This could possibly be due to the fact these are further processed after being heated.

· Greater contamination risk from milk kept in jugs.

· Reheating milk over and over again and pouring it back into a thermos, increases the risk of microbial contamination.

Tips

· When using milk it is important to clean jugs, thermos flasks and the steamers of coffee machines thoroughly and frequently. Use the right kind of hygienic sponges or cloths. Kitchen cloths are not suitable for disinfecting because of their microstructure, which means they transfer even greater levels of contamination.

· Containers with a lid are better, since tetrabricks opened with scissors are more exposed to microbial proliferation, and are especially vulnerable to enterobacteriaceae.

· Adding cinnamon to dairy products led to reduced microorganism

Click here to read the full article " One Third of Milk and Dairy Products Tested in Spanish Restaurants Exceed Accepted Microbe Contamination Limits" published by ScienceDaily (January 29 2010).

Source: Science Daily

The Truth About Artificial Sweeteners: Splenda

"Get The Sugar Out" is a book published from one of my favorite authors, Louise Gittleman, a well respected health pioneer on weight loss and award winning author of twenty five books. In her book, Louise Gittleman explains how sugar contributes to weight gain, mood swings, immune system deficiencies, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some forms of cancers. In addition, it also goes into detail about the origin and harmful side effects of many artificial sweeteners such as Splenda, Malitol and many others on our bodies. It provides many natural substitutes that are low on the glycemic index, less toxic and harmful and better for the waste line. Thus, providing great insight to help people make better choices when purchasing snacks or packaged food that contains artificial sweeteners.

After I read the book, I found that I became a sugar detective. I started to browse the isles of the grocery store noticing the lack of products with natural sweeteners and a surplus consisting of Splenda, Malitol, Aspartame and the likes. Prior to reading the book, I was oblivious as to how bad artificial sweeteners actually were and the harmful side effects they have on our body. My personal experience was when I ate "no sugar added" licorice. After eating the licorice, my stomach was in so much pain and discomfort. I later realized, after reading the book, that it wasn't the licorice that had caused major discomfort but rather the product was laced with Malitol- a major gastric distress hidden at the back of the package in the list of ingredients and a replacement for sugar. Boy was that great marketing. I am now very cautious of the types of foods and snacks I purchase, especially, no sugar added products.

Notice how "reduced sugar" or "sugar free" products have skyrocketed. Lets take Splenda as an example. It is an artificial sweetener that is harmful and toxic to our bodies. It has been linked to a variety of symptoms such as: severe headaches, dizziness, cramps, mood swings, seizures, convulsions, changes in vision and abdominal pain. Product labels, such as Jelly Belly's suggest that children under 3 years of age should not consume sugar free products because their immature digestive system could trigger massive discomfort. Sure lets remove sugar and replace it with artificial sweeteners such as Splenda or Malitol and slap a sugar free label on it.

Splenda aka Sucralose is one of the most popular sweeteners found in over 5000 packaged foods and was discovered in 1976 made by chlorinating sugar. The same chemical found in swimming pools and we are putting this in our bodies! It was discovered accidentally by scientists looking for ways to test chlorinated sugars as intermediates. Two scientist were working together and one scientist said to the other scientist to test the powder. Well, the scientist thought he said to taste it and so he did. It was very sweet. The rest is history. Whole Foods currently takes a strong stance and has banned any products containing Sucralose from being sold in the store. A major contributing factor was that most studies conducted were commissioned by organizations that had an invested interest in the approval of the sweetener.

The example above is just one artificial sweetener of the many artificial sweeteners that we should be avoiding. In her book, Louise Gittleman goes into detail about the major side effects of various other sweeteners found in our food. She provides many natural substitutes that you should use instead in your baked goods and when buying your groceries. When I read the book, my entire outlook on sugar changed and I became smart about what I wanted to put in my body. So the next time you decide to pick up that "no sugar added" product, look at the ingredients and see if in fact there is no sugar or if its substituted with the artificial kind. You might want to think twice about your purchase.

Cassis Berries: The Next Super Fruit

The latest super fruits is called the cassis berry. Heard of it yet? Probably not. It is a native shrub of Northern Europe and Northern Asia and its in the same category as the acai and maqui berries. In the early 1900s, cultivation of the cassis berry was banned in America, as it was wrongly considered a threat to the logging industry. As a result, cultivation of these rich berries was discontinued for a century. In 2003, New York was the first state to right the wrongs as the ban was lifted and others followed. So due to its unique history, cassis berries are not as well known in American as they are in Europe and Asia. Americans are just beginning to discover the their new berry friend.

Cassis berries were used as a substitute for oranges in World War II, with a vitamin C potency four times that of oranges. Rich in anthocyanins and having twice the antioxidant power of blueberries, the cassis berry is all set to compete for the next super fruit crown. The cassis berry is sweet and has an astringent flavor, similar to that of a black grape. It grows in clusters and has a thin skin. Underneath the skin is a gelatinous, nutrient-dense green pulp consisting of rich nutrients ranging from B vitamins, vitamin C, and essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and zinc. It also has substantial amounts of fiber, amino acids, and essential fatty acids called gamma-linolenic acid. Just 100 g of the cassis berry offers 300% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C in our diets.

Research is available as the berry is already consumed in Europe and Asia and below are just a few examples of some of the health benefits the berry has.

• bone health (calcium and magnesium ratio of 2:1)
• positive influence on heart health and eye healthanti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
• benefit to brain health
• anthocyanins in the berry are believed to act as neuro-protective agents
• acts as a detoxifier to cleanse tissues of oxidative stress and also stimulates liver functions
• relieves menopausal symptoms and improve venous circulation
• leaves of the berry have medicinal properties and are used in herbal tea preparations.

Having been hidden from our eyes for 100 years, Americans know very little about the berry. Since the lift on the ban in American, the cassis berry is growing and has a market for growth similar to that of the accai berry with many rich health benefits.

Source: Nutiritonal Outlook

History Of The Cough Drop And A Homemade Recipe

Using syrups and herbal teas to control coughing has been known since antiquity but it was not until the nineteenth century that the actual cough drop was born.One of the first mass-produced cough drops was the Smith Brothers cough drop. James Smith was operating a restaurant when a journeyman introduced him to a formula for a cough candy. James mixed up a batch in his kitchen and started to sell them. Demand for the product grew and he began advertising in 1852. In 1866 when James Smith died, his two sons took over and renamed the company Smith Brothers. During this time, they sold their cough drops in large glass bowls. In 1872 they developed a unique package to prevent imitators. And so the cough drop was born. Today, the cough drop business has grown as part of the $2 billion cough and cold market.

Cough drops are made up of ingredients found in typical hard candy recipes. They are mixed together, cooked, cooled, and packaged. The essential ingredients include sugar, corn syrup, acids, colors, and flavors. The problem is that the cough drop today, contains many artificial ingredients such as aromatic chemicals like methyl anthranilate and ethyl caporate rather than natural ingredients such as good old herbs that were once used when James Smith first created the cough drop. So the next time you're feeling sluggish, instead buying a pack of cough drops that contain artificial ingredients and dyes, try a homemade recipe infused with your favorite herbs. (see recipe below)

Ingredients In The Natural Cough Drop

Sugar is responsible for the physical structure of the cough drop along with its sweet taste. Corn syrup is a main component of cough drops. The main reason it is used is to control the crystallization of sugar. It also provides some sweetness and body to the cough drop. Additionally, it reduces the formation of dust from sugar during the blending stage. To cover the taste of the active ingredients, various natural flavors from fruits, berries, and honey are used. Active ingredients such as eucalyptus, vitamin C, echinacea or ginko biloba, peppermint oil are used and believed to have a medicinal effect functioning as a relief agent for minor mouth and throat irritations.

Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup light corn syrup

1 1/2 cup waterherbs (see below for herb options)

vegetable/food coloring (optional)

powdered sugar (optional)

Directions

1. Make a strong tea with the herbs. Steep the herbs in 1 1/2 cups of water.

2. Mix sugar, corn syrup and tea. Cook over low heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved and mixture boils.

3. Continue boiling without stirring until the mixture begins to crystallize.

4. Reduce heat. Wash away crystals from the side of your pan with a damp cloth.

5. Remove from the heat after a few minutes. (Optional: Add food coloring)

6. Drop some of the mixture from the tip of a spoon onto a greased surface or into prepared hard candy molds.

7. Allow to harden and cool completely before removing.

8. Roll the candies in powdered sugar and wrap in plastic wrap or waxed paper for storage.

Herb Choices (Loose herbs found in natural food stores or prepared teabags) that sooth the throat and provide

Peppermint /Spearmint : Soothe the bronchial and help eases sore throats

Ginger: Soothing (Tastes yummy)

Horehound: Great for congestion

Thyme: Contains antiseptic and antibacterial properties for coughs and colds

Mullein: Helps ease coughs

Marshmallow: Very soothing and helps shrink inflamed bronchial making it easier to breathe

Slippery Elm: Relieves inflammation

Fennel:Sooths soar throats and is great for really bad coughs

Drugs In Our Food: Want Some Fries With That

Where does it stop and will it? Health Canada now has a proposal to amend the Food and Drug Regulations to allow the enzyme asparaginase to be used in, or in the manufacture of, various standardized and unstandardised foods. These foods include: Bread, flour, whole wheat flour and other flours, French fries, potato chips and potato-based products, reaction flavors, and unstandardised cereal-based products such as cakes, biscuits, cookies and processed breakfast cereals.

The enzyme asparaginase is a cancer drug. It is used to treat acute lymphocytic leukemia, lymphoma as it interferes with the growth of cancer cells and has been reported to slow the growth and spread of the cells in the body. Asparaginase is also known to be a very high toxic solution and powder that must be handled with care. According to Health Canada, this new substance to the aforementioned foods above will not raise any health issues or concerns.

Why add this to our food? When certain starchy foods are heated (fried or baked) at high temperatures, acrylamide forms. The highest amount of acrylamide are found in french fries. Studies in mice suggest that acrylamide may cause cancer, but there is less evidence in human studies. None the less, Health Canada is proposing amendments to the Regulations to allow asparaginase (a drug) to be used in the manufacture of bread, flour, whole wheat flour, and unstandardised foods as a health benefit to reduce acrylamide formation. Do you want some fries with that? Click here for the full report by Health Canada and feel free to add your comments.

Source: Health Canada

Calorie Information From Restaurants, Packaged Foods Examined By Study

A recent study completed by researchers at Tufts University suggests that calorie count on menus, packaging and websites provided by packaged goods companies, fast food and chain restaurants are unreliable. The research concluded that on average, the calorie content information provided by the restaurants was 18 percent less than the researcher's calorie content analysis. The calorie content information reported by packaged food companies averaged 8 percent less than the researchers' analysis. Click here to read the full article "Calorie Information From Restaurants, Packaged Foods Examined By Study" published by MedicalNews Today (January 8, 2010).

Source: MedicalNews Today

Curvy Kate Winslet Tops UK 'Perfect Body' Chart

Actress Kate Winslet has topped the UK national poll for the perfect celebrity body with 16% of the overall votes and Kelly Brook took second place with 15%. Super thin celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Kate Moss finished at the bottom of the poll, scoring just 1% each of the votes. Former Casualty actress and Slimming World Woman of the Year, Rebecca Wheatley, believes this marks a shift in people's perception of what is attractive. She says, "it's fantastic to see that finally women seem to be aspiring towards a healthy body shape that is realistic and achievable. It's definitely a step forward rather than persuading women to set their sights on being super thin, which can lead to misery when they fail to achieve their target..."

Perfect celebrity body table

Kate Winslet - 16%

Kelly Brook - 15%

Halle Berry - 12%

Cheryl Cole - 10%

Beyonce - 6%

Megan Fox - 5%

Lily Allen - 4%

Keeley Hazell - 2%

Sienna Miller - 2%

Kate Moss - 1%

Jordan - 1%

Victoria Beckham - 1%

Click here to read the full article "Curvy Kate Winslet Tops UK 'Perfect Body' Chart" published by MedicalNews Today (December 30 2009).

Source: MedicalNews Today

2010 Law and Business Predictions in the Supplement Industry

The dietary supplement industry in 2009 had an incredible year. Many supplement businesses went public and got bought considering the rest of American businesses floundered amidst the depths of a recession. With respects to the regulatory landscape, it was tightened, but not as much as was expected. Joel Rothman, counsel to dietary supplement marketers in regulatory matters before the FDA and FTC, predicts the top issues and concerns the supplement industry will be faced with in 2010. Click here to read the full article "2010 Supplement Law and Business Predictions" published by Nutrisuplaw(January 3, 2010).

Summary by NutritionJunkie (Source: NutriSupLaw)

Essential Ingredients For Making Detox Smoothies

A detox smoothie cleans your body of accumulated harmful substances caused by processed foods and the environment that exert a negative effect on individual health. It is a great way to provide your body with nutrients and flush out any of harmful substances and toxins that make us feel sluggish. It can also be used as a rich and nutrient packed meal replacement in the morning to kick start your day.

When preparing your detox smoothie, there are three essential ingredients that you should include. They are fiber, diuretic and citric acid. These essential ingredients all have a role in the detox process.

1. Fiber should be used as the base for your fruit smoothie. Fiber helps your digestive system by moving food through the body and keeping the nutrients it needs to function at its best. Pears, apples, bananas, carrots or fresh berries are great sources of fiber. You can also add spinach to any fruit or veggie smoothie as it contains a rich source of fiber. For extra fiber, you can add flaxseed or raw granola.

2. A Diuretic makes your digestive system work faster. It helps remove excess water which causes bloating or swelling. Sea salt is known to be the best and most natural diuretic. It also contains over 80 minerals that which is healthy for our body. If you use sea salt, do not add it to the blending process as it will crush into small pieces and make your smoothie taste salty. Instead, add a pinch at the end and stir in gently with a spoon. Another great diuretic is ginger or watermelon. Pick ingredients that blend well with either a veggie or fruit smoothie.

3. Citric Acid makes its way through your digestive track to break down excess plaque and mucus that surrounds the lining in the walls of the intestines. While fiber and diuretic help flush toxins out, citric acid breaks toxins down so your body can dispose of them easily. Oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits are all great sources of citric acid. When peeling oranges and grapefruits, its recommended to leave the white skin on as the skin contains the highest amount of nutrients.

Try incorporating one item from each of the three groups to prepare a healthy detox smoothie. Mix and match ingredients to create your favorite blend of a fruit or veggie smoothie.

The Effects of Olive Oil on Breast Cancer

Ana Ripoll of Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB) and Pedro Barato, President of Organizacion Interprofessional del Aceite de Oliva Espanol, signed an agreement to study how the effects of olive oil can help prevent and fight against breast cancer. The study will begin this year and will last up to five years. So far up until now researchers have found that the intake of olive oil in moderate amounts slows down the spreading of breast cancer. For more details on this study click "UAB To Study The Effects Of Olive Oil On Breast Cancer" published by Medical News Today (December 29, 2009).