Fast Facts On Food

September 2nd, 2010

By Dawn Grant

Image care of chalkboard/google images

I thought I would take some time to divulge a few interesting facts about food. Seeing that food has been around since the beginning of time, you can guarantee that there is a lot of information you may not know. I hope this helps at your next game of trivia.

“Now you know” facts

• Rice is the staple food of more than one-half of the world’s population.

• The difference between apple juice and apple cider is that the juice is pasteurized and the cider is not.

• Watermelon is thought to have originated in the Kalahari Desert of Africa. The watermelon was brought into America across the Atlantic oceans by African slaves. It is also more than 90% water.

• Coca-Cola would be green if weren’t for colouring.

• 25% of ketchup is sugar. Remember that next time you pile it on your dish.

• Cheese develops the optimal flavor and texture when served at room temperature. Take it out of the refrigerator 30 minutes to two hours before serving.

• The smaller the size of a berry, the sweeter its taste. The darker the berry, the more antioxidants.

• A well-done steak, contains higher levels of carcinogens than a medium-done or rare steak.

• Popcorn has been around for 6,000 years.

• Whenever a recipe for cake or muffins calls for oil, applesauce can be substituted.

• Coconut water can be used (in emergencies) as a substitute for blood plasma because it is sterile and has an ideal pH level. Coconut water is also a substitute for high sugar sports drinks. It is great for replenishing electrolytes.

• The most expensive coffee in the world comes from civet feces.

• To prevent bananas from becoming brown, refrigerate them.

(Sources: Funfacts.com,funcracker.com, www.strange-facts.com, brighthub.com)

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A Ball of Medicine

September 1st, 2010

By Andrew Baker

If you are looking for a break from your regular workout routine, are looking to try something more athletic and dynamic, or simply cannot make it to the gym, grab a medicine ball! This handy and efficient workout tool is highly versatile, easy to use, cheap, and serves as a valuable addition to any gym or household fitness arsenal. They come in bothtraditional leather or tough rubber, the latter being better for outdoor purposes so as to withstand wear-and-tear. But whichever version you get, the medicine ball has undeniably stood the test of time, and once you get working with one, you’ll see why.

Many of the med-ball-specific exercises you will come across will incorporate a lot of core work, which is something that we should all be interested in, and also will encourage athleticism, functionality, overall strength, and explosiveness. Plus, depending on how you choose to train, endurance, cardio, and weight loss are key benefits as well. As with most other things in life, in working with the med ball you are only limited by your own creativity and imagination.

However, to get you started, try performing some alternating push ups on the ball. These will strengthen and tone your triceps, chest, shoulders, and core, and can often be seen being practiced by the likes of Sylvestor Stallone in his many training montages. You start by getting into push up position and placing one hand on the medicine ball and the other on the floor. Then lower your body down and as you push yourself back up, quickly, but mindfully, move your body to the side of the medicine ball, place both hands on the ball while in transition from one side to the next, then repeat the same body-lowering movement on the other side. In essence, you will always have one hand on the ball and one on the ground, and you will be switching sides back and forth. The better you become at this movement, the faster you will transition from one side to the next. Try aiming for five each side to start, and gradually work your way up from there.

If you are looking for more of a ab/ core workout with the medicine ball, the sky is the limit! Check out Top 10 Workouts to see how to do Russian Twists, Plank Running, Single Leg V ups and more.

Have fun, be safe, and always remember, life is better when you’re strong.

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Hold the Salt

August 30th, 2010

By Faye Stephen

Image care of salt shakers/flickr

Sodium- a mineral that is essential, but often maligned for its role in elevating blood pressure and subsequent role in the frequency of heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Fact is, sodium is absolutely essential for your body to regulate fluids and blood pressure, but only in small amounts. Most Canadians exceed the recommended daily intake of sodium suggested by Health Canada- 2300 mg.

Sodium intake can be difficult to monitor because sodium is often lurking in unlikely places. Most sodium is consumed in the form of sodium chloride or table salt; only 1 teaspoon contains 2400 mg of sodium, exceeding the limit set by Health Canada. Other common sources of salt include pre-packaged and ready to eat foods as well as restaurant foods. Dressings and sauces such as Soya sauce are also very high in sodium. To decrease your sodium intake, season foods with herbs and salt-free seasonings instead of using salt. Remove the saltshaker from the table and avoid pre-packaged and ready to eat foods.

Most are under the impression that decreasing your sodium intake will decrease the palatability of your food. That, however, simply is a misconception. By following some of these simple guidelines, your sodium intake is guaranteed to decrease without sacrificing any delicious flavour!

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Seasonal Foods

August 30th, 2010

By Dawn Grant

 

Image care of summer fruit/google images

Summer is short and just yesterday, I noticed the leaves changing colors already. First I felt sadness, followed by anger, and then anxiety, as that means snow is once again in the horizon. I vow to use the remaining days to their fullest and take up as many outdoor activities as I can, while over indulging on produce in season.  As fall nears, a lot of the fruits and vegetables that we have been enjoying will be out of season as well. In general, it’s easy to obtain most types of fruits and vegetables all year round but when they are outside of their peak time, they have less nutrients and lack flavor. Try buying fruits locally grown as they tend to better in quality and also support the local farming community as well. Farmer’s markets are great for finding excellent quality fruits and vegetables. Here is a list of some fruits and vegetables in season during summer. Keep in mind this does vary depending on your region and climate.

 

VEGETABLES

artichoke, arugula, beet, beet greens, bell peppers, carrots, cauliflower, corn, eggplant, garlic, potatoes (maincrop), radishes, sweet potatoes, zucchini, avocados, and tomatoes

FRUIT & NUTS

apples, figs, limes, melon, nectarines, peaches, pears, plums, raspberries, blackberries, huckleberries

(Sources- www.about.com, www.eattheseasons.com)

 

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Probiotic Power

August 26th, 2010

By Faye Stephen

Image care of parfait/flickr

“Probiotic” is a term that has reached new levels of fame among nutrition enthusiasts in recent years.  “Friendly bacteria” also known as probiotics are beneficial bacteria, usually from a plant source, that are found in our digestive tract and play a role in achieving and maintaining a healthy metabolism. A study by the Imperial College of London recently found that probiotic-containing foods have a significant positive effect on metabolism. Probiotics are naturally found in cultured foods and fermented milk products such as kefir, yogurt, buttermilk, tempeh, miso, and sauerkraut. Try including some of these foods into your diet on a daily basis and experience the kindness of “friendly bacteria”.

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The Clubbell: Another Fitness Gift from Afar…

August 26th, 2010

Image care of google images

By Andrew Baker

As our world continues to get smaller and Marshall Mcluhan’s global village becomes more and more of a reality, it is easier than ever to observe different cultures from around the world and learn from them. Indeed, it is a wonderful time to be alive, and in recent years, yet another gem from abroad has caught the attention of Westerners and has slowly begun to create positive ripples in fitness and athletic circles everywhere.

The Clubbell, a distant cousin of the Kettlebell, is rumoured to have origins in Ancient Egypt, but it’s lineage most likely extends further back. They resemble small baseball bats, with the majority of their weight being centered in the end or tip. As a result, the Clubbell forces the muscles of the wrist and forearm to come into play for stability. Clubbells were initially restricted to fighters, strength athletes, and martial artists predomintely. However, with the passing of time, a wider array of fitness and wellness enthusiasts are becoming aware of their value and wanting to board the Clubbell train.

Image care of Clubbell/ google images

Like the Kettlebell, Clubbells are wonderful for developing functional strength, core strength, wrist, whole arm, and shoulder strength, and can readily engage, tone, and condition the entire body depending on how they are put to work. For example, a popular and useful exercise commonly performed is the Swing-and-Hold. It resembles the classic Kettlebell swing, the most fundamental move for that fun and highly useful tool, only in this instance you perform the swing with two Clubbells in your hands.

The main difference enters the scene upon the upswing part of the movement, for with the Kettlebell there is a constant stream of motion, whereas with the Clubbell Swing-and-Hold, you briefly pause at the top of the movement for around one second or so. The Clubbells are perpendicular to the floor, which you will feel in your wrists and forearms.Then release your hold and bring them back down into the swinging position. Be sure to keep your knees slightly bent, and be sure to move smoothly, controlled and gracefully throughout the exercise.

Unlike performing Kettlebell swings, which require a marked snap of the knees and hips at the top of the movement, performing the Clubbell swing does not, hence the importance of ensuring grace, poise, and continuity throughout. In so doing, you will be like a dancer or martial artist, only with a different set of goals. Be safe, have fun, and always remember, life is better when you’re strong!

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Take Your Workout To The Sheets

August 25th, 2010

By Dawn Grant

Image care of feet under sheets/google images

So…today is exercise day and the thought of going to the gym has been a nagging thought at the back of your mind.  What to do? Should you skip the gym, and walk instead, or maybe eat a lighter meal, or take the stairs instead of the elevator.  All of these alternatives are unsurprisingly no fun at all, but I know one that is, Sex. There are a varying views on how much calories are burned during sex because it is dependent on the person and how rigorous the activity is, but an average session can burn anywhere for 80 to 200 calories according to ezinearticle’s.

Sex requires cardiovascular and muscular endurance, strength and flexibility. Each time you perform, you engage a variety of muscle groups which vary between males and females. By taking a more active role in sex you can  engage more muscle groups while spicing up your sex life as well. Here is a list of a few positions which are recognized for their fat burning properties and the muscles they target.

• Missionary: Though this is thought of as a more traditional position during sex and more passive for the female, it can target core muscle groups depending on how enthusiastic you are. Ladies use your abdominal muscles to raise your pelvis and push forward to “meet and greet” your partners foward force. Squeezing your glutes during will not only give more power to your push but it will also work your butt too!

• Doggystyle:  Ladies, a great position for improving core stability, as this position forces you to engage your abs to balance. Try arching your back and adding a little movement to sync up with your partner for an extra workout. Don’t let him do all the work here! Remember to use your glutes and quadriceps for added stability. Men,  use your core to match her rhythm. Engage your quads and glutes not only for the movement, but support her weight as well.

• Riding: Ladies, if you are looking to be in the drivers seat and increase your cardio while targeting core muscle groups, this is the position for you. You target your lower abs, pelvic muscles and hip flexors as you make your moves. A slight variation is the squat position and is a killer quad workout as well. Guys don’t just lie there, squeeze your glutes and core to match her rhythm.

• Standing: A great workout for both parties. Men, cardiovascular and muscular endurance is involved to maintain balance and stability. Ladies, you are using core, legs and upper body strength to support your weight and keep yourself elevated.

Now keep in mind that sex doesn’t compare to a serious workout, but it’s a workout nonetheless and a stress relieving one at that. Being physically active will improve your sex life because the muscles and endurance you need to perform like a champion will already be in place. So instead of movie night , make it Rocky night and train, train, train.

(Sources:www.About.com, fitnessmagazine.com, www.ezinearticles.com )

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Fishing For Answers

August 23rd, 2010

By Faye Stephen

Image care of salmon on ice/flickr

When it comes to seafood and fish, many of us find ourselves terribly confused: Is it good for us or bad for us? It is recommended by nutrition professionals that we consume a minimum of two servings of fish per week. Seafood and fish is an excellent source of protein and contains omega-3 fatty acids.  A diet rich in seafood may help to improve brain functioning and development as well as improve visual acuity and cardiovascular health. Consuming seafood and fish on a regular basis may also help to decrease blood pressure and to decrease the risk of stroke, cancer, asthma, type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. There is, however, a downside to consuming fish and seafood too frequently. Some fish and seafood contain high levels of mercury and other poisons or are raised in less than optimal environments. This can be extremely detrimental to your health and even more detrimental to the health of young children. Young children are at greater risk for mercury poisoning than adults or older children.

Fish such as Salmon, Snapper, Sole, Rainbow Trout, Sea Bass, Halibut, and Tuna (Yellowfin or Albacore) are low risk and can be consumed 2 to 4 times per month. Crab, Mackerel Rockfish, and Grouper pose a moderate risk and should be eaten no more than twice per month. High risk fish include Flounder, Opah, and Croaker. These fish should not be consumed more than once per month. Finally, very high risk fish include Swordfish, Shark, Marlin, and Bluefish. Very high risk fish should not be consumed by women or children at all.  These lists are by no means exhaustive. For a complete list, visit www.edf.org.

Although the consumption of fish and seafood does pose some danger, the benefits still outweigh the risks. It is crucial, however, that you are mindful of the types of fish and seafood you are consuming and the frequency with which you are consuming them. So go ahead, enjoy the fruits of the sea- just don’t enjoy them too much!

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Foods That Kiss Back

August 23rd, 2010

By Dawn Grant

Image care of google images

I like to kiss…if your mouth is clean. Oral hygiene is extremely important and warrants attention especially when it comes to kissing.  Nobody likes bad breath, especially when it’s coming from your partner. Beyond maintaining good oral care, is watching what you eat. Certain foods can be extremely offensive once they go through the digestive tract.  Just as bacteria in the mouth can cause bad breath, bacteria in the gastro-intestinal tract, can lead to bad breath as well.  These types of  bacteria create volatile sulfur compounds  which emit a foul odor.  Certain foods can trigger an increase of anaerobic bacteria that produces these compounds, such as garlic and onions. When the proteins are broken down in dairy, they create  these compounds as well. Ironically, sugar containing mints and chewing gum also produce volatile sulfur compounds when they are broken down by anaerobic bacteria.

Foods that dry your mouth can cause this adverse reaction as well by reducing oxygenation of the mouth which causes an increase in bacteria production. Coffee is a prime example of this. This dry mouth syndrome can also be caused by dieting which is believed to be caused by the decomposition of pancreatic juices as they pass through the stomach when the your body skips meals. Certain foods can assist in preventing and combating bad breath as well. Herbs such as coriander, spearmint, tarragon, eucalyptus, rosemary and cardamom all help in combating bad breath. Fiber rich foods are also great because they increase saliva production. Try eating fiber rich fruits and vegetables, like apples or celery because they will keep your mouth moist.  Eating foods high in vitamin C, like berries and citrus fruits, help to inhibit bacterial growth in the mouth and can also prevent gum disease and gingivitis.

Keeps these foods in mind when contemplating your next close encounter.

(Sources: www.msn.com, www.coolquiz.com, www.ezinearticles.com )

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You Are My Sunshine

August 21st, 2010

By Faye Stephen

Image care of sun sky clouds/flickr

Also known as the Sunshine Vitamin, Vitamin D is becoming increasingly famous as new research emerges confirming its many benefits. Incorporating Vitamin D into your life promises to strengthen bones, reduce the risk of various forms of cancer, thwart off multiple sclerosis and various autoimmune disorders, and to enhance immune function.

According to Statistics Canada, approximately 10% of Canadians are Vitamin D deficient. In June 2007, the Canadian Cancer Society published the results of their latest research, stating that adults should consider increasing their Vitamin D intake, particularly during the fall and winter months when your body’s ability to naturally produce Vitamin D through the sun’s ultraviolet rays is greatly diminished.

Few foods are good sources of Vitamin D. These include fortified foods and beverages such as milk, soy drinks, and margarine. Fish, liver and egg yolks are foods that naturally contain Vitamin D. So drink your milk and soak up those rays! Vitamin D is a super vitamin that promises to improve your health and vitality!

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