Buying clubs - A fresh approach to eating healthy on a budget

No doubt about it. Food prices are skyrocketing, especially organic, high-quality fare. With crop failure, bizarre weather patterns and the cost of living on the rise, it's no wonder eating healthy can be a challenge. But a relatively unheard of revolution is spreading across the U.S. and beyond: local buying clubs. Using the power of numbers, food costs are slashed by up to 50 percent. And the club offerings are of outstanding quality -- often organic, eco-friendly and healthful. It's a win-win situation for the consumer, farmer and environment.

Top healing foods that stop ovarian cancer in its tracks

Ovarian cancer is one of the most deadly diseases. It is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among US women -- an astounding 14,000 out of 23,000 diagnosed each year die. Ovarian cancer tends to be aggressive and generally has very few symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage.  Fortunately, several natural remedies have proven to be exceptionally useful in both preventing and curing this silent killer. Ginger, ginkgo biloba, green tea and flaxseed are all remarkably effective at destroying ovarian cancer cells and tumors -- hindering proliferation and increasing survival rates dramatically.

Food as medicine

Diet is extremely influential in preventing as well as healing ovarian cancer. Beyond consuming an abundant variety of fresh produce and limiting dairy, meat and sugar, certain foods specifically target ovarian cancer cells -- demonstrating extraordinary success in defeating this life-threatening disease.

Superfood Kitchen Giveaway Winner

Let me just say, I had a blast with this promotion. Not only was it fun revisiting one of my all time favorite cookbooks, but just the idea of another lucky reader enjoying it too was enough to make my week. I simply loved reading all the wonderful comments and connecting with new people. If my bank account could handle a giveaway every couple of weeks, I'd do it in a heartbeat. For now, though, I will need to stick with the occasional event here and there. But don't worry, more gift-bearing promotions are are the way. So stay tuned. As for the winner this time around . . .

Superfood Kitchen + Cacao nibs will be arriving shortly on Sharaya Nicole's doorstep.

A hearty thank you to everyone who participated. Until the next time. 

Forget Prozac - try probiotics to ease anxiety, curb depression and elevate mood

Could eating yogurt be a replacement for antidepressants? A group of scientists believe so. Groundbreaking research has shown that a common strain of probiotic can create GABA within the gut while also enhancing brain receptors for this neurotransmitter. Naturally produced GABA is a safe alternative to dangerous psychiatric drugs -- it calms the nervous system, promotes tranquil sleep, minimizes anxiety and alleviates depression. This is good news for over 50 million people around the world who use antidepressants.

Perils of a "Prozac Nation"

With a 400 percent increase of antidepressant use from 1994-2008, it looks as though the United States certainly is a Prozac Nation. An astounding 1 in 5 women between the ages of 40-59 use Prozac while nearly 4 percent of adolescents are on antidepressants. Second only to cholesterol drugs, prescriptions for antidepressants rose to an incredible 255 million in 2010 alone. World-wide, the sale of antidepressants totals over 20 billion dollars a year. This industry does not come without serious health risks.

Vitamin P deficiency: How lack of pleasure severely impacts health

As we race through our busy days and barely take time to eat, let alone enjoy a meal, more is at stake than simply depriving our taste buds - vitality is seriously compromised too. When we don't take pleasure in our food, regardless of how nutritionally superior it may be, our mental and physical well-being plummet. Scientific research agrees: If we consume tasteless fare, health suffers.

Pleasure as the ultimate health kick

Seeking a way to lower cholesterol, absorb more nutrients or slim down? Research has found the simple element of pleasure may be the key. According to Marc David, founder of the Institute for the Psychology of Eating, "When you're turned on by food, you turn on metabolism." He references three studies involving pleasure and health.

The first took place at the University of Texas where participants suffering from high cholesterol were given a general low-fat diet - with one exception: each was allowed to splurge every other day with a ham and cheese sandwich along with a milkshake. We would expect cholesterol levels to sky-rocket, but they didn't. In fact, there wasn't an elevation at all. David attributes this surprising finding to "… relaxed and celebrated moments in an otherwise bland and stressful diet. And that decrease in fight-or-flight chemistry could have been, by itself, enough to lower cholesterol…"

Not just another pretty face -- Boost immunity, soothe anxiety and calm distressed skin with cornflower herb

As a powerful medicinal plant, cornflower offers a wealth of benefit. Muscle and joint pain, eye complaints, anxiety, skin irritations and digestive upset all respond well to this edible flower. Cornflower also helps to increase immunity -- a welcome tonic during the cold and flu season. Easy to grow, these brilliant blooms are as versatile as they are beautiful.

Sometimes known as 'bachelor's button', cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) grows wild throughout Europe and certain parts of North America. Bearing rich blue flowers, the plant can reach up to three feet high. Native to Greece and Turkey, cornflower has a long history of healing use.

Discover the 7 habits of highly healthy people

Ever marvel over friends, family members or colleagues who never seem to get sick? They breeze through flu epidemics, office stomach bugs and colds totally unscathed. It truly makes one wonder: Is there a secret to outstanding health in the middle of the coughing, sneezing and miserably ill masses? Absolutely. But you may be surprised as to the reasons.

In the general scheme of life, there really isn't a magic bullet to great health, although there are certain habits that resilient individuals tend to adopt. Some may be familiar, others a bit more unexpected.

Quality rest

Robust people normally do not burn the midnight oil. Good sleep each night is the foundation for keeping the immune system in top form. Going to bed before 10 PM and eliminating exposure to light, especially computer screens, encourages melatonin production -- fostering sound sleep.

Superfood Kitchen Giveaway + Cacao Nibs

Superfood Kitchen is one of my all-time favorite cookbooks. Not only does it cover a wide range of ultra-healthy foods and how to use them in everyday life, but it's also beautifully photographed. The book is just plain gorgeous. And absolutely inspiring for seasoned superfooders and newbies alike. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Here's what Publishers Weekly has to say:

"Morris became interested in superfoods—“a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being”—while working with the superfood company Navitas Naturals. Despite ingredients that many people may be unfamiliar with, this book is surprisingly accessible. Morris explains exactly what superfood is, its many supposed benefits, how to incorporate superfoods into your diet, and how to shop. Included are sections titled “The Need for Nutrient Density” and “The New Superfood Pantry,” touting items like açai berry, an Amazonian berry containing concentrated antioxidants, healthy mono and polyunsaturated fats, as well as many vitamins and minerals; chai seed, similar to flaxseed, that the Aztecs, Incas and Mayans used for strength and stamina; and maca, a radish-like root that fights different stresses. Morris offers plant-based, nutrient-dense recipes of all kinds; breakfast bars—a lemon-coconut chocolate as well as one made with gogi berries (which have 18 amino acids); soups such as pumpkin, and kale, and black-eyed pea; and entrees like zucchini fettuccine with mega marinara, and pomegranate-glazed portobello steaks over lemony spinach. An ingredient resource guide takes the guesswork out of finding everything you need for these “simple recipes that can fuel an energetic lifestyle."'

Wheat madness- Is this popular grain provoking mental illness?

A mainstay in most Western diets, wheat is normally not associated with mental illness. Yet research has shown an intolerance to compounds within the grain can cause major neurological issues, including psychotic breakdowns. Far from a benign food, wheat has been linked with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and even diseases like multiple sclerosis along with Alzheimer's. In the spirit of physical and mental health, many are realizing wheat is not a food to be consumed lightly.

Dangerous triggers lurking

One of the main health-harming culprits is found with wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), a category of lectins. Regardless if the wheat is soaked, sprouted or cooked, these compounds remain intact. Tiny and hard to digest, lectins can accumulate within the body and wreak havoc on physical and mental well-being. WGA is neurotoxic, crossing the blood brain barrier and attaching to the myelin sheath, consequentially inhibiting nerve growth - a serious consideration for those suffering from degenerative neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer's. Lectins also destroy the villi in the intestinal tract, creating an inflamed, leaky gut. Since there is a strong connection between the gut and brain via the vagus nerve, intestinal ill-health strongly affects the mind, mood and behavior. The gut is also considered a 'second brain', pumping out its own source of feel good neurotransmitters like serotonin. If normal functioning of the intestinal tract is hindered, production of serotonin dips along with stable mental states.

Thrive Short Order | Caramelized Italian Plums with Mascarpone and Almond {Gluten-Free}

We have some beautiful Italian plums in season at the moment - firm, dark and mysterious. With a slightly tart-sweet flavor, they are absolutely perfect for caramelizing and pair wonderfully with the richness of mascarpone. And cardamom makes an appearance here as well. Used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 5,000 years, modern science is now verifying the healthy usefulness of the spice. More than just a flavorful favorite, cardamom also has many surprising benefits. It's a potent antidepressant, aphrodisiac and relaxant. But these are just a few of the reasons to use the spice. Find out more here.

Eliminate acne once and for all with these simple tips

Not only bothersome, acne can also indicate toxicity. Encourage radiant skin and cleanse the body by making easy adjustments to the diet and utilizing natural remedies. Exotic or expensive ingredients are unnecessary -- a solution may be no further than the kitchen pantry.

We are what we eat

It should come as no surprise that diet is intricately linked with the health of the skin; whether acne, premature wrinkles or general clarity. A spectrum of colorful fruits and vegetables are key, especially leafy greens which help to detoxify the liver. A whole food diet is a must. Essential fatty acids found in flax, borage, hemp and fish oils support luminous, healthy skin as well. Nix dairy forever along with red meat, both of which encourage inflammation -- one of the many causes of skin eruptions. The same for refined sugar. If you need something sweet, xylitol or stevia are good substitutes. Choose organic, always. This will reduce the toxic load and bump up nutritional content. Vitamins A and E, magnesium, calcium and zinc are vital for glowing skin -- make sure you are getting enough.

Thrive Short Order | Swift Chicken and Gorgonzola Salad

If you haven't noticed lately, I'm on a fast and furious theme concerning food. With the weather glorious and a long list of life priorities in hand, I am just not in the mood to be fussing with elaborate recipes. I know this will change once the temperature drops and we spend more time indoors. For now, simplicity is the key. I also realize that quite a few working mothers absolutely demand meals that do not require hours in the kitchen (at least during the week).

Although a breeze to toss together, this summer salad is far from humdrum. The pungency of the gorgonzola offsets the slight sweetness of the honey-lime vinaigrette. And the lightness of the cucumbers is a nice compliment to the chicken. But don't be fooled - this salad packs enough protein and heartiness to qualify as a main course. Garnish with sliced avocado and a few toasted almonds to make it more so. Remember to enjoy the end result in the spirit of the Slow Food movement - always savor your meals with good company. An outdoor picnic is my favorite.

Physician heals multiple sclerosis in eight months with paleo diet

The tale of Dr. Terry Wahls is an inspiring one. Diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, Wahls abandoned her conventional regime of chemotherapy and immune suppressing drugs for an unorthodox approach: food. Within a year of adopting what is essentially a paleo eating plan, she was able to walk without a cane and complete an 18-mile bicycle tour. Considered a miracle by many, Wahls is a thriving testament to the power of sound nutrition.

Devastating manifestation of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, debilitating disease that leads to a wide range of motor control issues -- sometimes resulting in the need for a wheelchair. It can strike at any age, but usually occurs between ages 20 and 40 years old. When the disease sets in, the immune system attacks proteins in the nerve protecting myelin sheath -- resulting in muscle tremors and weakness, loss of coordination, fatigue, imbalance and blindness. To date, drugs have proven to be ineffective for reversing the effects of multiple sclerosis. When Wahls discovered this fact through her own experience, she turned to diet in the hope of slowing the disorder.

DIY Spirulina Superfood Micro-Farm Can Prevent Starvation and Help you Survive Tough Times — Grow it Yourself

Create a micro-spirulina farm as an alternative to maintaining a full-fledged aquaponics garden and grow your own superfood to maintain good health, detox and provide nourishment during tough times. Economical and easy, growing spirulina is one of the best ways to ensure food security when times are rough. Exceptionally rich in vitamins, minerals and protein, spirulina can enhance the diet and even prevent starvation when food is in short supply.

One of Nature’s Most Powerful Plants

Prized by the ancient Aztecs and Mayans, spirulina has also been used throughout the world to fend off starvation when famine hits. As a complete protein, spirulina contains all eight essential amino acids in a form that is five times more easily digestible than meat or soy. Abundant in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, chlorophyll and beneficial fatty acids, spirulina is truly a wonder food. Not only is it exceptionally health enhancing, spirulina can also be grown easily at home for pennies on the dollar. Continue »

Modern science validates light and color therapies in promoting full-spectrum health

The ancient practices of phototherapy and chromotherapy are gaining momentum as valid science. Researchers are now able to study how light and color not only affect psychological behavior, but also physiological systems of the body. An article in The New York Times explores how color and light influence well-being in a variety of circumstance; from prison cells to neonatal units, coal mines to classrooms.

Early use of light and color for healing

Phototherapy (utilizing full-spectrum white light for healing) and chromotherapy (using specific colors to influence health) have been used since 2000 BC. Ancient Egypt, Greece, China, and India all practiced light therapy while the Egyptians and Greeks also embraced color therapy. In the hermetic traditions of Egypt and Greece, colored stones, minerals, and crystals were used in chromotherapy. Treatment sanctuaries were also common. These spaces were painted in specific colors recognized for their healing qualities.

Leap tall buildings in a single bound with rhodiola herb

Used by the ancient Greeks, Vikings and Chinese emperors to increase vitality, endurance and mental acuity -- rhodiola has a colorful history dating back thousands of years. In more modern times, it is known as a potent tonic for depression, heart arrhythmia and even cancer. With very few side-effects, rhodiola is a remarkable herb that just may activate superhuman powers for those who use it.

As a powerful adaptogen, Rhodiola rosea helps the body resist stress. Take for example 64-year-old Juliette Bergman who worked in New York at the World Trade Center. In Chris Kilham's article, "Rhodiola rosea: Nature's antidepressant", Juliette explains how rhodiola turned her life around. After suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) triggered by the trade center bombing and attack on September 11, Juliette was on anti-depressant drugs for over eight years. Wrestling with a 35 pound weight gain and severe depression that was not alleviated by the antidepressants, she was introduced to rhodiola by Dr. Patrica Gerbarg and Dr. Richard Brown. Her depression cleared and she felt energized for the first time in years.

Positive mental states encourage health and longevity - Research

According to current research, gratitude and appreciation aren't just pleasant emotions, both offer tangible health benefits as well. The HeartMath Institute in California has taken these findings a step further, providing a systematic approach for cultivating true appreciation - which ultimately reduces stress, chronic disease and nervous system disorders. In our fast-paced and intense modern world, orienting oneself toward positive mental states can vastly improve the quality of life and promote longevity.

The dance between appreciation and science

A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that gratitude supports cardiovascular and immune system health. Participants were monitored while asked to recall for five minutes an incident that triggered anger. Next, the individuals were told instead to focus on a memory that inspired gratitude. Heart, pulse and respiration rates dramatically improved. The researchers believe that by cultivating gratefulness, stress is  significantly reduced - thereby boosting immune function and strengthening overall health.

Organic agriculture ravaged by chemtrails - Monsanto seizes the opportunity, profits and dominates

Organic farmers have yet another environmental hazard to contend with, this time compliments of the U.S. government in the form of chemtrails. A mess of toxic chemicals, these harmful sprays pollute the soil, water and air while compromising the health of humans, animals and plants. And now Monsanto has developed seeds that will weather the effect of the sprays, creating a tidy profit for the corporation while organics suffer. If this poisoning continues, true organic farming may become impossible in the not so distant future.

Chemtrail cocktail

Geoengineering hides behind the claim of arresting global warming through atmospheric spraying of arsenic, aerosol, aluminum, barium, depleted uranium and substantial amounts of mercury. There's only one problem - what goes up, must come down. These chemicals are seriously polluting our waterways and soil while seeping into crops and contaminating livestock, not to mention changing the weather patterns. Plants are especially sensitive to the soil degradation that occurs with chemtrail spraying, creating serious issues concerning our food supply. Enter Monsanto with a lucrative 'solution.'