Turmeric—A Fierce Superfood Spice That Melts Away Body Fat and Defeats Insulin Resistance

Besides garnering attention as a a veritable fountain of youth, cancer tamer and fibromyalgia remedy, turmeric has proven itself to be a formidable weight loss superfood as well. Easing inflammation is just one benefit of this golden beauty. It also mitigates insulin resistance and balances blood glucose levels while helping to prevent the spread of fat tissue—providing a powerful tool in the battle of the bulge. A staple in Asian cultures for centuries, turmeric is a safe, flavorful and nutrient packed addition to any diet or weight loss plan.

Colorful fat fighter

Research at Tufts University in Boston discovered that curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) reduced weight gain and total body fat in mice who consumed the compound. Eighteen mice divided into three groups were fed either a low fat, high fat or curcumin enhanced high fat diet. At the end of the study, body weight of the mice and fat distribution were measured. For those who ingested the diet with curcumin, both total body fat and weight gain were reduced—even though food intake was not restricted. Blood glucose, cholesterol, fatty acid, triglyceride and liver fat were lower as well.

Beware: Shoes Can Be Hazardous to Your Health

Heard of earthing yet? It's all the rage among those who want to be more energetic, grounded, clear, healthy and youthful. Simply place bare feet on sand or a moist patch of grass for at least 10 minutes. Really, that's it. The benefits are truly exceptional -- a strong immune system along with reduced inflammation and cardiovascular disease are just a few of earthing's rewards.

Antioxidants, free radicals and the root of disease

Incredible to think that merely walking barefoot on the earth can heal disease. But Dr. James Oschman, recognized as a top expert of biophysics energy medicine, has shown that the earth is a powerful healing tool. When bare feet connect with the ground, there is a transfer of free electrons from the earth through the skin. These electrons are the most powerful antioxidants known. By scavenging and neutralizing free radicals in the body, antioxidants help to ease inflammation as well as cell and tissue damage. Remember, inflammation is the bane of health -- contributing to everything from heart disease to cancer to diabetes. Free electrons have a negative charge while free radicals are positive -- they cancel each other out. With the advent of rubber soled shoes, we have essentially cut ourselves off from the earth's supply of healing free electrons -- all the while promoting the rise of modern illness.

Discover the Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science Behind Kidney Health

Winter is the season of the kidney according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is especially important to tend to these organs during this time. With a measure of proper care and attention, kidney health is strengthened while painful stones and infection are avoided. Through straightforward dietary and lifestyle choices, the kidneys can be kept clear, untroubled and vigorous.

Winter: A season to nourish and rebuild

As observed in traditional Chinese medicine, when the kidneys are unbalanced the emotion of fear arises. The reverse is equally true. When we are in a state of chronic fear or anxiety, the kidneys become depleted. The cold winter months can aggravate the kidneys further -- it is vital to pay particular attention to these organs during this time. Staying warm (especially the feet) while protecting against chills and cold wind encourages harmony within the kidneys. Enjoying soups, stews and seasonal, grounding vegetables like winter squash maintain kidney equilibrium too. Additionally, a brief meditation from The Organ-Emotion Link helps to balance these tiny bean shaped organs as well:

Tree Nut Consumption Lowers Pancreatic Cancer Risk - Research

If you need another excuse to enjoy a handful of your favorite tree nut, new research suggests consumption of nuts can slash the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Long associated with decreased rates of heart disease and diabetes, researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, along with Harvard Medical School, have now added another compelling reason to include nuts in the diet - namely, cancer prevention.

Tasty snack with substantial benefits

A study published in the British Journal of Cancer found a strong correlation between nuts and lower cancer rates. The study was based on data from the Nurses’ Health Study, which was was analyzed for the nut consumption - including almonds, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, cashews, pistachios and hazelnuts - of 75, 680 healthy women. The team discovered that “eating a one-ounce serving of nuts at least twice a week was associated with a lower risk of pancreatic cancer,” reports the Huffington Post. “[The] nut-eaters also tended to weigh less than the non-nut-eaters.” Other factors for pancreatic cancer such as age, height, physical activity, obesity, smoking, diabetes and dietary influences were taken into account and included in the results.

Tooth Whitening 101: Flash a Gorgeous Smile With These Natural Methods

A sparkling white smile is more than simply cosmetic - it also reflects the state of inner health. Teeth tend to yellow with age and exposure to staining food and drink, yet discoloration also suggests impaired tooth structure. All in all, light enamel color indicates well mineralized and strong teeth. But before rushing out to purchase a tooth whitening kit in an attempt to spruce up your smile, try a few safe and natural alternatives. Chances are, you will be pleasantly surprised at the results - and your dentist just might be too.

Root of the problem

Strengthening teeth from the inside not only brightens the smile, it also helps to defend against decay, gum disease and tooth loss. The secret is to consume a high mineral diet that is low in phytic acid. Unfortunately, the standard American diet is high in tooth and bone destroying phytate-containing edibles - namely grains, seeds, nuts and legumes. Even when soaked, sprouted and prepared correctly, these foods still contain enough phytic acid to damage teeth. Add to this high sugar, fruit and commercial vegetable oil consumption and dental health is bound to suffer.

Gasoline From Air? New Technology Delivers Clean and Green Fuel of the Future

The true cost of fossil fuel reaches far beyond what is paid at the gas pump—the expense of waging war to protect oil interests, governmental corruption, global warming and environmental destruction all are part of the equation. And don't forget about the health consequences as well. Fortunately, a solution to these troubles might be just around the corner. A team of researchers in the UK have discovered a way to extract carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air, converting it into viable, clean burning petrol. No, this isn't science fiction—it's technology that's on the verge of becoming mainstream within a few, short years.

The problem with old school gasoline

Saving the Planet, One Meal at a Time

By Chris Hedges

Numbered footnotes, with hyperlinks, appear at the end of this article.

My attitude toward becoming a vegan was similar to Augustine’s attitude toward becoming celibate—“God grant me abstinence, but not yet.” But with animal agriculture as the leading cause of species extinction, water pollution, ocean dead zones and habitat destruction², and with the death spiral of the ecosystem ever more pronounced, becoming vegan is the most important and direct change we can immediately make to save the planet and its species. It is one that my wife—who was the engine behind our family’s shift—and I have made.