1. Pumpkins provide a healthy dose of vitamin C and E, immune-boosting zinc, potassium and magnesium, all of which help support organs including your kidneys, bladder and prostate.

2. They also boast beta and alpha carotenoids, antioxidants that can help prevent cell damage.

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Did you know that whole grain products, such as whole grain cereals and popcorn, are extremely healthy and not only for their high fiber content? These common breakfast and snack foods are rich in antioxidant substances, of which fruits and vegetables were generally considered to be our only really significant source until now. These antioxidants, called “polyphenols,” can also be found in wine, tea leaves, coffee, olive oil, walnuts, and chocolate. However, not to the same degree as in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These polyphenols may be the leading way to reduce risk of cancer and heart disease.

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It’s nearing May in the heart of Japan’s Nishio area, and beneath the cover of carefully arranged netting, row after row of brilliant jade tencha tea plants are gradually hidden from the sun.  As the sunlight fades and the plants retreat into the shade, growth of the plants’ leaves slows, allowing the chlorophyll and antioxidant content to increase.

And under this shaded refuge, Japan’s number one organic matcha is tenderly nurtured. Only the newest small leaves are harvested.  After undergoing a gentle steaming process, the tiny leaves are kiln-dried and stone-ground into the AOI (Ah-oh-ee) Tea Company’s prized green matcha powder.

Matcha, which can be enjoyed a variety of different ways, offers a wealth of fantastic health benefits, including antibacterial and antiviral properties.

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Think a romantic meal of beef tenderloin with a side of potatoes sounds delicious? Maybe with a nice Bordeaux?  Perhaps it does (especially if it’s grass-fed beef!), but it may decrease your chances of conception.

A new study shows that men who want to be fathers should increase their intake of fruits and veggies and decrease their consumption of fatty foods like red meat and creamy dishes.

Men who ate healthy diets not only had faster sperm, they had more sperm in their semen. It was both a quality and quantity effect.

Dr. Jaime Mendiola of the University of Murcia, Spain said of his research:

In this study, we have found that people who consume more fruits and vegetables are ingesting more anti-oxidants and this is the important point.

We saw that, among the couples with fertility problems coming to the clinic, the men with good semen quality ate more vegetables and fruit than those men with low seminal quality.

There are obviously many factors that influence fertility, and this is only one.

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Nothing heralds summertime to me quite like watermelon. Reminiscent of childhood picnics and parties, this sweet, pink, fleshy fruit always cools me down on hot days. Did you know that watermelon:

• helps with inflammation?
• may help prevent asthma when eaten?
• is concentrated with amazing antioxidants?
• prevents colon cancer, diabetes and arthritis from developing?
• happens to be a a great internal cleanser as it’s more than 90% water?
• is a great source of vitamins A & C? 
• contains beta carotine?
• has a high lycopene content? 
• aids in free radical elimination and may prevent cancer formation?

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We are thinking about our skin now more than ever, with sleeveless tops, shorts and (shudder) bathing suits on the horizon.  There are many things you can do to get the bod summer-ready.  Starting with, of course, a healthier diet and picking up where we left that exercise program last fall.  As for the skin, a little self tanner goes a long way, evening out skin tone and giving you a nice glow.

To have truly healthy skin from the inside out you absolutely have to think about what you are feeding it.   Be sure you are using skin care and cosmetic products that are safe (free from harmful ingredients) and right for your skin type.  But don’t stop there, your diet definitely shows up in your complexion.

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Many researchers and cancer specialists believe that up to 60% of those deaths can be prevented if Americans adopt healthier lifestyles.

According to Rachael Stolzenberg-Solomon, a researcher at the National Cancer Institute,

“The easiest and least expensive way to reduce your risk for cancer is just by eating a healthy diet.”

Here is an overview of ten important cancer fighting foods to include in your diet on a regular basis:

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This wonderful little superfood is not only delicious, but also packed with phytonutrients that help neutralize free radical damage in the body.

Here is a simple and delicious recipe to help include more blueberries in your diet:

(This recipe is easily made vegan by substituting vegan margarine for the butter, soymilk for the milk, and making sure to use vegan sugar.)

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The olive tree contains great symbolism. We all know and love the beautiful branches depicted in art, the delicious olives, and olive oil naturally, but did you know that olive leaves are medicinal and healing? Olive leaf extract comes from the leaves of the olive tree, and the leaf contains antioxidants as well as antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory healing properties.

Recorded history of olive leaf’s medicinal use dates back thousands of years, as it was used by the ancient Egyptian and Mediterranean cultures as a medicine and health tonic. Olive leaf is the first botanical cited in the Bible as well. Now modern natural medicine has rediscovered the healing leaves of the olive tree.

These days, olive leaf is known in science worldwide to be anti-aging, and an immunostimulant, that can also act as a natural antibiotic. In fact it was recently proven that an extract made directly from fresh olive leaves was shown to have an antioxidant power almost double green tea extract and 400% higher than Vitamin C.

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Black, green, white, and oolong teas all come from the same plant known as Camellia Sinensis.

The more processing the leaves of the plant undergo, the darker they will turn.  (Green and white being steamed quickly, black and oolong being dried and fermented.)

Regardless of the processing method, brewed tea not only tastes good, but can have many health benefits as well;

1. Tea contains antioxidants. Antioxidants can help slow down the aging process, and help cells regenerate and repair.  Many studies suggest antioxidants also assist our bodies in preventing cancer.

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   ]]> http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2009/01/24/10-health-benefits-of-drinking-tea/feed/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2009/01/01/world-peace-and-chocolate-sweetriot-creates-morsels-of-goodness/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2009/01/01/world-peace-and-chocolate-sweetriot-creates-morsels-of-goodness/#comments Thu, 01 Jan 2009 15:37:43 +0000 Gennefer Snowfield http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2009/01/01/world-peace-and-chocolate-sweetriot-creates-morsels-of-goodness/ What if you could promote peace, foster a multicultural world, support local artists, help underdeveloped countries thrive and save the planet just by eating deliciously rich and organic chocolate candies? 

   

   Well, thanks to Sarah Endline, the creative genius and cacao bean extraordinaire behind sweetriot, you can.  Oh, and did I mention that the chocolate candies are actually good for you, and rich in health benefits?  I know it seems to good to be true, but Behind the Burner gave me the amazing chance to speak with Sarah who shows us how a sweet tooth and a passion for change can make anything possible.

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   ]]> http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2009/01/01/world-peace-and-chocolate-sweetriot-creates-morsels-of-goodness/feed/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/11/09/10-superfoods-for-health-and-beauty/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/11/09/10-superfoods-for-health-and-beauty/#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2008 05:14:35 +0000 Derek Markham http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/11/09/10-superfoods-for-health-and-beauty/ Take your health and beauty to the next level with superfoods!

   From dietitians to raw food gurus, superfoods have been promoted as the fountain of health and youth.

   While I can’t vouch for the fountain of health and youth claim, I have experienced the extra vitality that comes from eating these nutrient-dense foods.

   There is no formal definition for the term superfoods, but they are generally described as being especially nutritious, with bio-active compounds and special health benefits not available from other foods. Superfoods are the foods with high levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants, and they possess a superior nutritional profile.

   Adding some of these foods into your diet is one more way to support your body’s natural health and beauty.

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   ]]> http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/11/09/10-superfoods-for-health-and-beauty/feed/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/07/01/honey-the-cure-for-just-about-anything/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/07/01/honey-the-cure-for-just-about-anything/#comments Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:40:29 +0000 Reenita Malhotra http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/07/01/honey-the-cure-for-just-about-anything/ Image © Jonathan Souza | Dreamstime.com

   I find it hard to identify my favorite Ayurvedic remedy but if I must pinpoint a wonder-drug then honey is probably the first that comes to mind. The health benefits of honey are plenty, it has been used as a medicine for centuries.

   Extremely high in antioxidants, honey is a great immune booster and has huge benefits for almost every dosha. Moreover, its soothing quality makes it perfect for healing wounds. Ayurvedically speaking, it has been used for situations related to internal or external bleeding.

   There are a few specific substances in Ayurveda that actually increase the efficacy of other herbs or medicines if they are mixed into the compound. Honey is one such example which is why it is commonly mixed with various other herbs in a single dosage. For children the sweetness of honey makes other mostly bitter herbs, more palatable. For adults it simply aids absorption.

   More honey remedies after the jump.

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   ]]> http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/07/01/honey-the-cure-for-just-about-anything/feed/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/21/glowing-naturally-in-the-summer-sun-part-ii/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/21/glowing-naturally-in-the-summer-sun-part-ii/#comments Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:28:42 +0000 Lucille Chi http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/21/glowing-naturally-in-the-summer-sun-part-ii/ Earlier this week we talked about some DIY tips for a healthy glow in the summer sunshine and we will continue to share skin saving tips throughout summer. Please remember when trying these natural remedies for the skin always use a good full spectrum sun protection (preferably organic). When we’re out in that sexy bikini or sundress always try to have good sun coverage for your special skin type. Stay tuned for our brilliant expert tips on great summer skin here on Feelgood Style.

   

   Today I’d love to share more natural home remedies for glowing skin. Fruits like strawberries and papaya contain enzymes that cleanse the skin of impurities. Avocado is a rich natural moisturizer. Anti-inflammatory skin soothers like cucumber and chamomile prevent redness and calm skin after a gorgeous day in the sunshine.

   Chamomile is not only a relaxing tea, but it also calms the skin. This beautiful skin article talks about how to make a simple hot chamomile towel mask to feel refreshed. Some swear by placing cool chamomile tea bags under the eyes to reduce puffy, red or tired eyes.

   I also have a great summer tip for this flower. Put a little cool steeped chamomile H20 into a sprtizer bottle, and bring it with you when you are out in the sunshine! If you are a blond or brunette it will lift sunlight highlights in your lovely locks!

   Cucumber cools the delicate eye area. Try placing a slice over each eye for a mini facial. For an easy cucumber face toner here is a little recipe. Keep it in the fridge for an added cooling effect after freshening up from a yoga class, brisk walk, or bike ride.

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   ]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/21/glowing-naturally-in-the-summer-sun-part-ii/feed/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/16/glow-with-nature-in-the-summer-sun-part-i/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/16/glow-with-nature-in-the-summer-sun-part-i/#comments Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:59:20 +0000 Lucille Chi http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/16/glow-with-nature-in-the-summer-sun-part-i/ The sun can boost brain levels of serotonin which is the neurotransmitter directly associated with good mood. Sun induced smiles are so wonderful. The best part is this happens simply when you see sunlght. So while taking a stroll outdoors for an hour is ideal, just ten minutes of fresh sunlight and a little glimmer in your eyes will help more than you know.Today, I’d love to share some glorious, all natural, summer skin savers, many of which you may have in your cupboard. These ingredients are all from nature and may help keep you healthy in the sunshine. Treats like apricots and pomegranate with refreshing tea and aloe coolers create healing elixers that will give you that summer glow naturally.

   Green Tea contains Camellia Sinesis (its plant of origin) which is rich in polyphenols. Polyphenols are compounds that demonstrate protection from uv sun damage and prevention of oxidative stress. In fact it had been proven that applying green tea to the skin reduced the number of sunburn cells! I suggest making a toner from your extra tea bags because this summer we need all the skin saving shortcuts we can find.

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   ]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/06/16/glow-with-nature-in-the-summer-sun-part-i/feed/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/06/02/power-of-the-pulp-raw-acai-berries/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/06/02/power-of-the-pulp-raw-acai-berries/#comments Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:10:30 +0000 Deb Hiett http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/06/02/power-of-the-pulp-raw-acai-berries/ A Healthy Taste Straight From the Amazon Rainforest

   By now, most of us have heard about the high-octane health benefits of acai berries, cultivated exclusively and naturally (without pesticides or chemicals) from the Amazon rainforest. Called by some* to be the “most nutritionally dense” berries, these little jewels apparently have more antioxidants than blueberries and more heart-healthy anthocyanins than red wine. They’re also rich with protein, dietary fiber, with high levels of Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids. Plus, they’ll reduce the prices at the gas pump. (Okay, I’m not certain about that last part….)

   But the trick is getting the acai berry pulp as close to the source as possible, and without being over-processed (which depletes the nutritional value considerably). Raw acai is the only sure way to get all the benefits of the berry, and unless you’re planning a trip to Brazil anytime soon, that can be tricky. Even though I’m very mindful of “food miles” and eat locally grown foods almost exclusively, I was eager and curious to try raw acai pulp that is processed as little as is safely possible. Enter Amazonfrutas….

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   ]]> http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/06/02/power-of-the-pulp-raw-acai-berries/feed/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/27/skin-gets-a-fresh-start/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/27/skin-gets-a-fresh-start/#comments Tue, 27 May 2008 14:56:04 +0000 Emma Pezzack http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/27/skin-gets-a-fresh-start/ With Organic Ginkgo, Gotu Kola and B3, this amazing Fresh Start Serum from Stem Organics reads more like a new energy drink than an elixir of life for stressed skins! We know that the biggest cause of aging is sun exposure,  followed closely behind by free radical damage caused by factors such as smoking and polluted air. Whether we like it or not, we’re exposed daily to environmental factors that affect our skin and while we can’t reverse the aging process, using a serum like Fresh Start from Stem Organics can make a significant difference to how your skin looks, feels and functions.

   Loaded with unique bioactives that contain high concentrations of antioxidant and anti-aging ingredients, this is one serum that’s a must-have for Summer. Niacinamide (B3), Grapeseed Extract, Beta-Glucan, sea buckthorn, and olive leaf extract, all rejuvenate & restore skin. Polyphenol-rich Pomegranate and Australian bush flower essence of Banksia, stimulate cell renewal, energy & vitality to your skin making it more supple, youthful and healthy. Australian Kakadu Plum contains one of the richest sources of free-radical fighting Vitamin C in the world. As if that weren’t enough, all these ingredients are in a base of organic Aloe for ultimate healing, soothing and skin repair. Writer :: Emma Pezzack - www.futurenatural.com: the best organic beauty products in the world.

   Buy from: Stem Organics, Futurenatural

   ]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/27/skin-gets-a-fresh-start/feed/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/22/all-i-have-to-do-is-neem/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/22/all-i-have-to-do-is-neem/#comments Thu, 22 May 2008 08:38:04 +0000 Deb Hiett http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/22/all-i-have-to-do-is-neem/ When I decided to move to Southern California, well-meaning friends worried about my fair complexion. “I’ll just be known as ‘the girl with the hat,’” I replied breezily, while thinking to myself “…and the long sleeves, and the bandana around my neck.” And while I’ve been very successful at keeping my skin protected from the sun, I never imagined how freaking dry it is out here. Really dry. Desert dry.

   I’m happy to report I’ve found a new oil that helps soothe and heal my dry and irritated skin: organic neem oil. Of course, it’s not new to everyone in India, where it’s been used in the Ayurvedic tradition for thousands of years. All parts of the neem tree (seeds, leaves, flowers, and bark) are used for preparing many different medical preparations, including anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, and sedative.

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   ]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/22/all-i-have-to-do-is-neem/feed/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/21/arcona-skincare/ http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/21/arcona-skincare/#comments Wed, 21 May 2008 14:57:03 +0000 Lucille Chi http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/21/arcona-skincare/

   Arcona is a genius natural skin healing line created by a chemist and pioneer in holistic skin care “long before it became trendy, she developed skin care products and treatments that would provide Hollywood celebrities—and women and men everywhere—with an alternative to cosmetic surgery and other harsh treatments to forestall the effects of aging.”

   Their products may be found online and at select spas offering facials. None contain petrochemicals, binders or fillers, chemical stabilizers, parabens, sodium lauryl sulphates, perfumes, dyes, or any caustic, toxic ingredients.All Arcona ingredients are enzymatic-based which means they include high concentrations of antioxidants, plant lipids and extracts, sea vegetables, essential oils, vitamins and minerals. Think of live food for your skin in a sense. Since everything we put on our skin is absorbed by our bodies, the richer the nutrients the healthier our skin becomes.

   ARCONA has a philosophy of beauty springing from within and truly believe everyone’s skin can and should look beautiful at any age whatever their history.

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   ]]> http://feelgoodstyle.com/2008/05/21/arcona-skincare/feed/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/03/22/antioxidants-decoded/ http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/03/22/antioxidants-decoded/#comments Sat, 22 Mar 2008 10:11:22 +0000 Meredith Melnick http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2008/03/22/antioxidants-decoded/ For one reason or another, thinking about, living with and treating cancer has been a big part of the lives of my friends and family over the past year. Perhaps this has something to do with my current location, but I’m not so sure. Frankly, it is becoming more and more apparent to me that cancer is the new flu. Many of us will get it and, luckily, a growing proportion of us will survive it. But an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of treatment, as they say. And our diets are a big part of that preventative effort.

   The term “antioxidant” is one of those vaguely scientific, overly used words that makes my eyes lose focus. It’s up there with “nutraceutical” and “isoflavanoid.” But I decided to make a bigger effort to include antioxidant-rich food in my diet, so I decided to figure out exactly what it meant.

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