In First For Women Magazine, August 17, 2015 issue, only two things caught my attention but really are worth mentioning: health benefits of gratitude and smoothies.
On page 34, counting your blessings does wonders for your well-being, say researchers at the University of California at San Diego, United States. They had 186 adults keep gratitude journals by jotting down things for which they were thankful several times a week. After 8 weeks, people who rated highest in gratitude levels scored best in markers of mood, sleep and energy. The study authors also note that mental and spiritual well-being ease chronic stress, leading to improved immune function and a reduction in heart-harming inflammation.
Next, on pages 60 and 61, First For Women shows how to make superpowered smoothies in 5 step fashion:
1. Start with 1 protein (1/2 cup or 1 scoop)
a. Greek yogurt...revs liver function
b. Kefir...improves digestion
c. Whey protein...boosts fat burn
d. Tofu...melts a menopot
e. Cottage cheese...turns of fat storage
2. Add 1 fruity goodness (1/2 to 1 cup)
a. Blueberries...improve memory
b. Bananas...lift mood
c. Strawberries...increae pep
d. Pineapple...eases joint pain
e. Raspberries...deepen sleep
3. Toss in 1 greens (1/2 to 1 cup)
a. Spinach...stimulates the thyroid
b. Kale...fortifies bones
c. Cucumbers...nix stress
d. Watercress...strengthens immunity
e. Parsley...flushes bloat
4. Choose 1 healthy fat (1 to 2 Tbs)
a. Almond butter...lowers cholesterol
b. Coconut oil...speeds calorie burn
c. Flaxseed oil...protects the heart
d. Avocado...enhance focus
e. Chia seeds...dial down hunger
5. Sprinkle in 1 Nutrition Booster (1 Tsp. to 2 Tbs.)
a. Oats...stop hair loss
b. Hemp hearts...ward off wrinkles
c. Green powder...detoxifies
d. Turmeric...soothes inflammation
e. Cinnamon...balances blood sugar
So, all in all, this issue was educational in health.
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