How To Avoid GMOs and the Health Risks That They Pose

Robyn Benson

Published on January 22, 2015

One of the most important health care messages I give my family, friends and patients is to avoid genetically modified foods. As hard as we try to eat a healthy diet, it’s hard to know whether the food you buy and feed your family is free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It’s estimated that in the U.S., 80% of our food contains GMOs, as genetically modified corn, soybeans, sugar beets, canola oil and other ingredients.

How can we avoid GMOs and the health risks, both known and unknown, that they pose?

Jeffrey Smith, anti-GMO advocate and filmmaker, gives us some answers in his two-minute video, created for the Self Care Revolution. He’s also created an app that you can download that will tell you what foods to buy.

As a Doctor of Oriental Medicine for 23 years, I work with patients to get them to stop eating GMO foods and when they do, they feel 100% better.

The best way to avoid having GMOs end up on your dinner plate is to shop the periphery of the grocery store, where all the fresh produce, dairy and meats are. As you work your way towards the center of the grocery store, that’s where you’ll begin to find the processed, canned and frozen foods, most of which contain GMOs.

It’s also important that you buy organic milk, because non-organic milk contains the rGBH growth hormone, a steroid that increases milk production.

GMOs pose great risk to our health. If you’re allergic to soybeans and don’t realize they are in the corn that you eat, you could have a life-threatening reaction. If you eat a tomato that’s been sliced with a fish gene to make it cold-resistant, and you have an allergy to seafood, you could also have a serious reaction.

According to a new study cited by my dear friend and mentor Dr. Norman Shealy, genetically engineered corn, soy and other crops and the widespread use of glyphosate, found in Monsanto’s Roundup herbicide have caused disease and death in humans around the globe. The FDA now permits glyphosate residues in food and livestock feed from 3 to 300 parts per million, with the highest levels found in grass, fodder, hay and peppermint. Roundup destroys endocrine function and also can cause hyptertension, strokes, diabetes, obesity, Alzheimer’s’, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis and other health issues.

Monsanto, the main manufacturer of GMO foods, has resisted all efforts to require labeling of GMO ingredients, threatening to sue states that pass mandatory GMO labeling laws.Until we have an official way of ascertaining whether GMO ingredients are the in the foods we buy, we have to stay informed. Jeffrey Smith’s app will help you avoid GMO foods in the grocery store, and Join the Self-Care Revolution will post news as it comes up, too! Keep informed with the links below!

Download the Non-GMO Shopping Guide
http://nongmoshoppingguide.com/

Join the Self-Care Revolution
http://www.jointheselfcarerevolution.com/

Sign up to receive concise self-care messages on Self-Care Rockin’ Fridays.
http://www.jointheselfcarerevolution.com/rockin-self-care-friday-2/

Listen to Jeffrey Smith’s 2- minute video about GMOs.
http://www.jointheselfcarerevolution.com/rockin-self-care-friday-2/

Feel free to leave a message in the comments box below. We’d love to hear from you.

Shiva Shakti: Awakening Your Life Force Energy

Robyn Benson

Published on December 16, 2014

Sexual energy plays a major role in our lives, and if you’re stressed, disconnected from your partner, or dealing with other blockages, your sex life is suffering.

I have to admit that in 22 years of my practice, at least 75% of my clientele complains of low sexual interest, or even complete loss of drive. Sexual cultivation and restoration is a foundation of a well balanced life according to Chinese medicine.

In my practice, I regularly give acupuncture to help restore this primal energy in the body, which helps activate energy, gives the body a nice glow, increases healthy circulation, balances hormones and dramatically reduces stress, while increasing the pleasure hormone Oxytocin.

Reconnect with your passion and restore your sexual energy—your life-force energy—with internationally acclaimed sex and intimacy expert and author Amara Charles and Shyena Vénice during a special three-day workshop, SHIVA SHAKTI: An Introduction to Spiritual Sexuality, January 9-11, 2015 at Santa Fe Soul.

http://www.santafesoul.com/shiva-shakti-january-9-11-2015/

Amara focuses on restoring a balance between Shiva, the awakened masculine energy, and Shakti, the feminine, receptive energy, bringing greater awareness into our life so we can have the pleasure we deserve. She has 25 years of experience working with men and women—both singles and couples—helping them achieve life-changing breakthroughs so they can experience new levels of intimacy and pleasure.

Through experiential exercises emphasizing play, she introduces the six kinds of sensuous touch that bring fresh energy to your life as well as ancient techniques to make you a better lover. “Touch is one of the most fundamental aspects within the relationship,” Amara says. “What people really want and need is intimate touch and connection.,” And these specific touches will deepen that connection, from the Water Touch—a washing touch that cleanses and heals—to the Earth Touch, a gentle pressing that brings vitality, and the Fire Touch, an electric touch.

She also helps  you discover what kind of lover they are—Wind Lover, Earth Lover, Fire Lover and more, which all have different strengths and challenges, giving insight into the needs of your partner.  IN this workshop:

  • Enhance your life through sexual restoration Daoist practices and more
  • Awaken your core aliveness
  • Own your grand design
  • Rejuvenate your sexual vitality, sensuality and love your body
  • Learn your lover type (a favorite of all of Amara’s global events)
  • Awaken the healing power of your sexual energy

Amara uses Qigong excercises that bring vitality and energy to the body, and tranquility exercises to calm the mind and the breath.  By addressing the emotional and psychological issues that bring blockages into intimate relationships, she facilitates breakthroughs in communications, resulting in the courage to express yourself openly and honestly, from the heart.

Join us for SHIVA SHAKTI at Santa Fe Soul, Jan 9-11 for a truly transformative journey into sexuality and healing and bring more wisdom, warmth and happiness to your intimate relationships! Amara is the author of Sexual Agreements and Aching to Open. Her new book, The Sexual Practices of Quodoushka, is the first to reveal the Shamanic healing practices of sex from the Nagual Tradition.

If you have any questions feel free to call 505 474 8555 or email Amara directly at  amaracharles123@gmail.com.

Learn more about Shiva Shakti, Spiritual Sexuality and our upcoming workshop in a live blogtalkradio interview with Amara Charles, Dr. Robyn Benson and Kevin Snow ~

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/robynbenson/2014/12/07/shivashakti-healthy-love-and-intimacy-with-amara-charles

Busting Myths of Chronic Illness

Robyn Benson

Published on November 20, 2014

I want to thank Jonathan Crews MBA for his contribution to this article!

Powerful myths surround the public discussion about chronic illness, myths that cast us as victims, feeling scared, helpless, and frustrated—trapped with no way out. Not only do these myths and beliefs limit and paralyze us, they cost us thousands of dollars a year.

One of the biggest myths you’ll hear is that your disease is progressive and will only get worse. You’ll also hear that pharmaceuticals—both addictive and dangerous with numerous side effects—are the only option to help you feel better. And your friends and family may tell you that you look good…so how can you not be well?

But these are all just myths. You can recover from long-term illness and regain health, happiness, and vitality. Major life-changing steps like reducing toxicity, balancing hormones, eating healthy foods, identifying the root causes, examining past traumas and changing the way you think about a disease—being optimistic and positive, for instance—can have a huge impact on your recovery.

Your body has a natural ability to restore well-being and health, without the use of addictive pharmaceuticals, with negative side effects that only make you sicker. Mother Nature has been curing health problems long before the invention of these pharmaceuticals. Her limitless pharmacopoeia of natural herbs has been used to fight disease around the globe for eons, with ingredients like tree bark and leaves turmeric, ginger, garlic and other fruits of the earth. Natural healing systems like Ayurveda and Chinese medicine have been around for millennia, curing everything from the common cold to life-threatening illness

But chronic illness is not just a physical problem. Our bodies are connected to our mind and our spirits, and we strive to keep them in balance, juggling our emotions, beliefs, feelings and essential Selves, which connect us to the truth of who we really are in the Grand Design. If any of these aspects are out whack, with each other or the divine whole, we lose our radiant, vital health.

Healing can happen more quickly than you think.

Our most challenging, life-threatening situations can actually be a doorway to greater self-realizations, catalyzing change so that by confronting our limitations and incorrect beliefs, we shift to a more healthful way of thinking, and being.

So here’s to radiant, vibrant health and a new-found liberation from the binding myths about chronic health issues!

Learn more by joining us for the revolutionary BREAKTHROUGH PROGRAM: New Solutions for Chronic Health Changes, Dec. 8-12 at Santa Fe Soul in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with renowned guests, Michael Gelb and Jeffrey Smith! Click here: http://freshstartsantafe.com/product/breakthrough/

We’re also hosting REVITALIZE & THRIVE: Heal Your Cycle of Being Tired and Wired, a five-day retreat Jan.26-30 at Santa Fe Soul, just in time to help you recover from holiday stress! Click here: http://freshstartsantafe.com/product/revitalize/

To learn more visit:

http://www.santafesoul.com/

http://www.jointheselfcarerevolution.com/

To hear Robyn on a popular radio show on this topic:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/efactorbrendapearce/2014/11/17/busting-myths-of-chronic-illness-with-dr-robyn-benson

Leave a comment.  We always love your feedback and viewpoint.

Revitalize and Thrive in the Healing Mecca of Santa Fe November 10 – 14, 2014

Robyn Benson

Published on September 17, 2014

“ Never give from the depth of your well, always give from the overflow.”  – Rumi                                 

There are times in life when we need help getting back on track. Being “Tired & Wired” is a modern-day epidemic. Our over-stimulated minds demand too much of our exhausted bodies. A relentless cycle of chronic fatigue — overpowered with stimulants — keeps us on a damaging treadmill, just trying to keep up. Our healthy, natural rhythms become lost in a world of artificial choices and skewed priorities. If this sounds like you, this program will change your life.

Do any of these symptoms apply to you?

  • Exhaustion
  • Depression
  • Chronic Insomnia
  • Hormonal Imbalances
  • Lack of Impulse Control
  • Out of Control Thoughts
  • Overworked & Overwhelmed
  • Constant Struggle with Weight
  • Dependence on Stimulants & Mood-Altering Drugs
beautiful sunrise

Come to the healing mecca of Santa Fe November 10 – 14, 2014 and begin a powerful journey of reawakening. The pristine beauty of the land of enchantment is waiting to embrace you.

Make a quantum leap that will impact your entire life. At Santa Fe Soul you’ll be immersed in a culture of transformation and wellness. You will leave feeling uplifted, stronger, and empowered with a greater vision for your life, with self-care tools to sustain your progress. Welcome to your Fresh Start!

THRIVE – REVITALIZE and REJUVENATE in the natural setting of New Mexico – November 10 – 14, 2014

Rebalance • Regain • Renew

  • Rebalance and restore your natural vitality
  • Embody new lifestyle strategies for coping with challenges & stress.
  • Gain a new awareness of body, mind & soul
  • Enjoy a fulfilled and thriving life.

OUR UNIQUE APPROACH

robyn benson

We take advantage of multiple healing modalities that work. At Santa Fe Soul Center for Optimal Health, our in-depth, life-changing approach is unique. This synergistic healing plan offers far more than what any one method could achieve. We’ve done the legwork for you! Come willing to participate, and prepare to leave your old self behind. Make a firm commitment to change, and finally live the healthy, full life you long for.

The Revitalize & Thrive Program will help you to:

  • Relieve stress and gain mental clarity through meditation, movement and leading-edge selfcare strategies
  • Learn how to nurture your body with whole, nourishing foods and natural supplements
  • Release pent up emotions that drain your energy
  • Support your body with advanced therapies that boost your energy and oxygenate your cells.
  • Learn what you need to revitalize your body, brain & digestion, and build your natural immunity.
  • Fulfill your true potential through a deeper spiritual connection.
  • Reawaken your full-spirited joy.
  • …and so much more.

Begin Your New Path To Wellness With Your Customized Revitalize & Thrive Program! Receive a new blueprint for optimal health and happiness

yoga and balance

PROGRAM ACTIVITIES INCLUDE

  • Receive a comprehensive personalized health assessment & review
  • Dynamic workshops with renowned leaders in the Health-Care fi eld
  • Six transformative treatments to jump-start your new path to health
  • Private sessions with the practitioners best suited to your needs
  • A variety of gentle exercises for increasing vitality and body awareness
  • Powerful meditation practices to deeply connect with your inner resources
  • Moving into your heart and healing the emotional body
  • Ancient practices for release and renewal
  • Creative techniques to envision your path to wellness
  • Two rejuvenating excursions in the enchanting beauty of New Mexico (low-impact)
  • Learning to make quick, nutritious meals to support your health
  • Enjoy organic smoothies and mouthwatering lunches
  • Two follow-up calls from the Revitalize & Thrive faculty to facilitate your continued progress.

*Please call to schedule a preliminary interview with Dr. Robyn Benson at 505-986-1089. Visit www.freshstartsantafe.com for updated information. This program is limited to 10 people. Take action now to dramatically improve your health and your life! Call (505) 474-8555 to enroll now.

Visit our website for more information: www.santafesoul.com

“I want to thank Dr. Robyn and all the glorious practitioners at Santa Fe Soul for their outstanding care. The healing treatments I receive totally transform my life from exhaustion and burnout to new-found vitality to continue my work and extensive travel.” — Michael Gelb, Author of 13 books including International bestseller, How to Think Like Leonardo Da Vinci A 5 Day Life-Enhancing Experience

Connect with me on Social Media: Facebook – Twitter – Google+ – LinkedIn – YouTube – Pinterest

Join me and other amazing speakers on The Self-Care Revolution

Find answers to your health care questions at Santa Fe Soul

Fix It When Illness Develops Isn’t Working

Robyn Benson

Published on August 29, 2014

Rising healthcare costs, distrust of pharmaceutical companies, and the “fix-it when illness develops” approach not working, is leading many Americans to look for more natural ways to maintain good health – not only their physical health, but mental and spiritual as well.

This infographic shows how more Americans are turning to holistic healthcare and why:

Holistic Health in America
 
For 25 years I have helped people achieve optimal, radiant and sustainable health and to help people feel fabulous at any age. I have learned that we each have an optimal state of wellness. It is my life’s work to help you find and maintain that state of well-being. Getting to that state is an individual process. This is why I have created the Self-Care Revolution Bliss VIP day, so I can meet with you one-on-one for a full day and discuss your personal situation and needs and then develop a plan of action that is uniquely designed for you. I use a combination of modalities which are specifically chosen to take you to a state of optimal health.

By working with me, you’ll discover:
• You do not have to be sick
• You can achieve and maintain hormonal balance
• You can age beautifully
• You can flow through life
• You can achieve harmony and true balance in your life now
• You are able to sustain healthy energy in your body

It all begins with you saying yes to yourself!

Source: www.wholesomeone.com

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Join me and other amazing speakers on The Self-Care Revolution

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Can You Pass these 5 Everyday Fitness Tests?

Robyn Benson

Published on August 22, 2014

Most people think they are fit – at least somewhat fit anyway. But are we really? There are some very easy and simple fitness tests that you can do to see whether you are fit or not fit. Ready to try them out?

1. Are you still energized after 14 hours?

After a long day, do you still feel energized or are you sitting in your chair dozing off? If you are fit, you should still be active and alert at 9 PM if you woke up at 7 AM. If not, you can blame your over sedentary lifestyle.

So what to do? Exercise, sleep and reducing stress are important in fighting fatigue.

2. Are you able to carry large water or milk containers without feeling the strain?

Are your arms pretty strong? What about your shoulders, back, chest and knees? Let’s find out! Take two one-gallon jugs of milk or water and carry them – do you feel the strain? If so, this means a lack of strength and makes you more vulnerable as you get older to injury, as well as issues with arthritis, osteoporosis, and even dementia or depression.

It’s a fact that if a strength training program is put into place for 16 weeks, older adults with arthritis can lower their pain levels by as much as 43 percent.

Were you able to carry this weight without effort? Good news – you’re fit!

3. Are you able to jump up and down without your heart racing?

Yes? Then you have good cardiovascular fitness and a controlled heart rate. No? Then you should enroll in a fitness class; one that focuses on endurance and lowering your resting heart rate. Interval training is a great way to boost your endurance.

4. Okay this one is going to sound odd but can you trim your toenails standing up?

Can you do it without feeling any discomfort? Ah, so now you realize how inflexible you really are. This is something you can work on.  Take a yoga class to help ward off osteoporosis and arthritis. As we age, it’s very important to be able to stretch without pain.

5. Without moving your feet, can you twist and look behind you?

This movement tests your core strength and flexibility. Both of these are essential for strong, healthy, pain free backs.

So how did you do? If you passed all the tests then congratulations – keep doing what you’re doing! For those who failed, find a good gym, take a yoga class or just get out and walk for 30 minutes a day.

I would love to hear from our readers, so tell me how you did. Were you able to perform each task or did you have difficulty with some of them?

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Join me and other amazing speakers on The Self-Care Revolution

Find answers to your health care questions at Santa Fe Soul

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Local Farmers Market

Robyn Benson

Published on August 12, 2014

One of my favorite things to do this time of year is taking time to walk through my local farmers market. There is something about it that is relaxing.  It also allows me to choose the best organic produce for my family and indulge in trying new items or preparing them in different ways.

If you’ve never shopped at a farmers market, it can be a little overwhelming so I’ve put together a few tips to help you make the most of your visit:

• Note the hours and dates of your local market on your calendar. Set reminders on your smartphone that will alert you when favorite items such as tomatoes, peas, beans and strawberries come into season.

• Prepare your refrigerator and kitchen for the season’s harvest. Clean out your fridge’s produce drawer, and stock up on items that complement fresh produce, such as salad dressings and seasonings that can be used to turn basic veggies into delicious meals.

• While farmer’s market vendors will almost certainly have plastic bags on hand, take your own reusable bags or baskets to carry your purchase – they’re better for Mother Nature. If you’ll be buying perishable items, consider packing a cooler as well. Remember to place heavier items (like melons) on the bottom of the bag and lighter ones (such as berries) on top.

• You’ll find the freshest produce and best selection early in the day. Setting your alarm to wake you a bit early could ensure you get the pick of the day’s produce.

• Leave the $20 and $50 bills at home. Smaller bills will provide you with greater buying flexibility, and vendors will appreciate the change.

• Scope out the entire market before you begin making purchases. Certain popular items, such as tomatoes, cantaloupe, melons, peas and potatoes will be available from multiple vendors. Strolling through the market first will allow you to compare prices and taste samples to ensure you’re picking the best and most delicious buys for your family.

• Unpack bags as soon as you’re home and store each item appropriately. Create a menu plan for the week that incorporates everything you’ve purchased to help ensure nothing goes to waste. Don’t forget to incorporate snacks into your meal plan.

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Find answers to your health care questions at Santa Fe Soul

Why Work Stress Keeps Us in a Constant Fight or Flight Mode

Robyn Benson

Published on August 4, 2014

We either live to work or work to live. Either way there are some frightening side effects no matter which side we land on, and it is affecting our day-to-day health in ways we have yet to understand.

Let’s take a look at why work stress keep our bodies in a constant “fight or flight” mode:

You get sick a lot

Do you get sick a lot? It’s sad to say, but 26% of you will still go to the office even when you’re sick, and another 34% of you continue to go until you feel the full effects of your symptoms. The problem increases exponentially in an office environment because you’re not the only one sick.  Studies show that there are over 500 types of bacteria found in offices because people wait until the last symptom strikes before heading home.

There is also another very real factor: “Sick Building Syndrome” which the EPA warns against. If you have consistent symptoms such as headaches, sore throats, fatigue, dizziness and nausea and your physician cannot pinpoint the cause – you might be suffering from sick building syndrome.

You are putting on more fat

Studies now show that when you sit for hours on end, your metabolic functions significantly decrease. What that means is, you are burning much less calories. The consequences of this are obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and the list goes on.

Special note to women: For those of you who sit more than six hours a day, you have a 40% higher chance of dying younger than those who sit less than three hours a day.

You have back, shoulder and neck pain

New findings show that standing all day is bad for your health too but sitting over a computer with your shoulders hunched all day can lead to chronic back, shoulder, neck and wrist problems. Talk about confusing! So what do you do? There are best practices to follow when sitting at your desk to help minimize these issues and find maximum comfort:

First, when you are sitting comfortably, pull up to the edge of your work surface and look straight ahead. What you see is your optimal viewing zone, and things that you look at during work (computer screen, documents etc.) should be in or close to this zone.

Next, reach each arm out to the side of your body and move them from this position until the hands meet at the center of your body in front of you. The semi-circular area covered by the sweep of your arms is called your normal reach zone, and everything that you frequently use should be placed inside of or close to this area. You should not have to bend or stretch to reach things that you frequently use.

Then, relax your upper arms down to the side of your body. Using your elbows as pivot points, swing your forearms out to each side and then move them together until your hands touch in the center of your body in front of you. The area covered by the sweep of your forearms looks like that area covered by your windshield wipers, and it is called your normal working area. Things that you operate with your hands, such as your keyboard and mouse, should be placed in this area and positioned for optimum comfort.

You are ruining your eyes

Do you constantly stare at your monitor without looking elsewhere? Has it affected your vision? You may be suffering from Computer Vision Syndrome. Yep, this is a real disorder and is associated with a number of vision problems of varying nature such as dry eyes, blurred vision and the like. Headaches, aching shoulders and neck pain are included in the symptoms.  You can help ease these symptoms by looking away from your computer screen at least once an hour.

You are feeling the stress

For most of you, it is stressing you out big time! Work is listed as a main source of stress by three-quarters of Americans – that’s a lot! They suffer from physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, nausea and emotional outbursts of anger as well as lowering their productivity.

It’s a fact, the more work stress you have, the higher your risk for illness and injury.  The American Institute of Stress shows even more startling facts about the affects of stress.

Stress has also been a known damaging factor in our relationships. Sixty-one percent of women have stated that their jobs have a negative impact on their relationships.  The average for men is much higher – seventy-nine percent state that work stress is a major factor in destroyed relationships.

So what do we do about it? I’ll discuss that in my next blog…

Source: www.cosmopolitan.comwww.stress.org

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Want a Healthy Brain? Eat an Apple!

Robyn Benson

Published on July 25, 2014

We all want to be healthy, but at times we’re just not sure how to get there because all of the health “noise” we hear on TV or read about on Facebook. It can all be confusing and overwhelming. One day something is good for you and the next day it’s bad for you. No wonder I have so many people asking me to help them decipher the confusion. The bottom line is; eating healthy is probably the best, fastest and most nutritious way to get there.  Even the simplest fruits can help you maintain a healthier lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look:

Your brain can do so much better with a red, juicy apple

Want a healthy brain? Eat an apple! Studies have shown that the apple isn’t just the healthiest fruit, but the healthiest food as well. You might not be surprised to hear this but the fact is, the apple contains an antioxidant that is called quercetin, which reduces the number of neurons dying in your brain. Oxidation and inflammation lead to neuron death, but with more apples added to your diet, you can prevent this.  As a result, your neurological health improves and the power of your brain increases. It also helps stave off Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia according to studies. Note: Always choose organic fruits and vegetables.

Reduce heart disease with bananas

The most significant dietary change an individual should make is to reduce their intake of sodium and add more potassium to their diet. Rich in B6, Vitamin C, potassium and fiber, bananas can keep your heart functioning properly and effectively.

Studies claim that consuming higher potassium amounts reduces the chances of death due to ischemic heart disease by 49%.

Burn fat with grapes

Grapes contain resveratrol which has a number of health benefits such as protecting your blood vessels from being damaged, reducing bad cholesterol and preventing the formation of blood clots.

Another interesting fact about resveratrol and is that it can reduce the ability of a cell to store fat by as much as 130%. And that’s not all; it will cause disintegration of your fat cells at a rate of 246% higher than average.

Reduce wrinkles with oranges

We all know the benefits of oranges when it comes to Vitamin C but what few know is that when applied topically, oranges have the ability to improve the appearance and overall health of our skin. It can even help reverse skin damage caused by pollution and the sun – and – it helps reduce wrinkles by improving overall skin texture. This all comes about because Vitamin C plays a vital role in our skins ability to produce collagen, which is a firming component of our skin. Vitamin C in oranges also helps our skin absorb vitamin E and iron, producing a glowing complexion!

Prevent Cancer with Pears

More than any other fruit, pears contain the most fiber which helps our bodies pass food much easier through the digestive tract. The beauty of the pear though is that this gritty fiber also helps remove cancer-causing chemicals in the colon. In turn, this helps in reducing the risk of developing colon cancer. Pears also contain flavonoid phloretin which has been found to induce and inhibit growth in colon cancer cells, human melanoma, as well as liver and leukemia cancer cells in lab studies. The consumption of pears has also been associated with lowering the risk of breast cancer.

So sink your teeth into these luscious fruits and reap these amazing health benefits.

Source: www.medicaldaily.com

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Why You Can’t Lose that Belly Fat

Robyn Benson

Published on July 17, 2014

Have you been working out all spring and into the summer months but you’re just not seeing the results you hoped for especially around the mid-section? This is something I hear a lot from women who are getting older; despite their efforts, they still have fat around the belly.

There are a lot of factors at play here, for instance, hormones have a major impact on belly fat. So how do you banish the blubber around your belly? Let’s take a look at a few reasons why your body might be holding onto it despite your hard work.

You are growing older

As we grow older, our bodies undergo a number of changes and this includes the manner in which it gains and loses weight. Whether you are a male or female, your metabolic rates decline and the calories which your body needs also decreases. Females have to go through menopause, which may add more fat to their bellies.  These hormonal changes prevent you from reducing your fat.

Your workout routine is not specific

If you want to decrease your belly fat, you need to do specific exercises. Every type of workout program will not help you. As an example, cardio workouts are a great choice for your heart, but not for your waist.

However, strength training can increase muscle mass, which may allow your body to burn more fat. Try adding 60 minutes of moderate intensity or 30 minutes of high intensity strength training to your workout routine four times a week and you will soon see some of that fat disappear.

You consume processed food in significant quantities

Refined grains and even refined sugar can increase inflammation, which may lead to more belly fat or at least prevent you from losing it. If you are trying to lose fat, you should avoid processed food as much as you can.

Also try to include as many natural foods as you can in your diet. Fruits, veggies and whole grains have anti-oxidizing properties which reduce inflammation and may prevent you from accumulating fat in your belly.

You are not eating the right fats

Your body does not respond the same to different types of fat. Saturated fat is limited to an increase in visceral fat, whereas mono saturated fat can reduce inflammation and help your body lose that stubborn belly fat. Examples of foods which contain these fats are walnuts, avocados, olive oil and sunflower seeds.

Do you have any great tips for losing belly fat? Share them in the comments section!

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Find answers to your health care questions at Santa Fe Soul