Tasty Tuesday... Poached Ginger Chicken

Poached Ginger Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 3/4 to 2 pounds)
• Kosher salt
• 1 2-inch piece ginger, peeled
• 1 large shallot
• 4 tablespoons peanut oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1 English cucumber, halved lengthwise, seeded and thinly sliced
• 1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced, or 1 small daikon radish, peeled and cut into matchsticks
• 1 teaspoon Asian chili sauce (such as sambal oelek)
• 1 bunch watercress, trimmed
• Juice of 1 lime

Directions

Put the chicken in a medium pot with just enough water to cover; add 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook until the chicken is firm to the touch, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare a bowl of salted ice water. Drain the chicken and plunge into the ice water for about 30 seconds to stop the cooking. Drain again.

Grate the ginger and shallot into a small bowl. Stir in 3 tablespoons peanut oil, the sesame oil and 1/4 teaspoon each sugar and salt.

Toss the cucumber and radishes with the chili sauce, 3/4 teaspoon salt, the remaining 1 tablespoon peanut oil and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon sugar in a large bowl. Add the watercress and toss.

Divide the salad among plates. Slice the chicken and add to the plates, then top with the ginger mixture. Drizzle with the lime juice.

Per serving: Calories 432; Fat 23 g (Saturated 4 g); Cholesterol 118 mg; Sodium 614 mg; Carbohydrate 9 g; Fiber 2 g; Protein 47 g

****Taken from The Food Network

Happy Memorial Day!

Slow and Steady Wins The Race

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Remember the fable about the tortoise and the hare? The hare got off to a zippy pace and seemed sure to win. But he didn't, did he? The tortoise, while naturally much slower than the hare, kept moving steadily toward the finish line and was able to cross first.
What's the take-home message of this fable? Slow and steady wins the race. To reach your weight-loss goals, you need to switch from the hare's mind-set to that of the tortoise. In other words, you must break the "all or nothing" mentality.
Do you start diets with superhuman resolve — determined to eschew temptation and work out seven days a week — only to fall off the wagon and give up hope?
Such an approach to anything — especially to your health — can be very appealing, even motivating. But I'm telling you right now that overreaching the most dangerous way to set out. Human beings are imperfect. When you do skip a workout or give in to temptation (something we all do), you're more likely to throw in the towel.
So start thinking like a tortoise. Pace yourself. Have a slice of pizza and take a day off now and then, but don't stray too far from the path that will lead you to your goals.

****Taken from:Jillian Michaels website.

Stress Signals in Cancer Cells

Stress Signal in Cancer Cells Triggers Similar Response in Other Cells, Potentially Aiding Tumor Growth Researchers at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine demonstrate how a "stress response" mechanism used by normal cells to cope with harsh or demanding conditions is exploited by cancer cells, which transmit the same stress signal to surrounding cells, triggering an inflammatory response in them that can aid tumor growth. The findings are reported by Maurizio Zanetti, MD, professor of medicine and director of the Laboratory of Immunology at the UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center, and colleagues, and published in the April online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the protein-making factory inside all cells. Increased physiological demands or disease conditions can sometimes cause proteins to misfold and accumulate in the ER. Cells typically respond by an ER stress response, which attempts to reset normal ER balance. For normal cells, the ER stress response is transient. For tumor cells, it's life. Because they exist in an environment that's invariably difficult (their host is always trying to kill them, and oxygen and nutrient deprivation are frequent), tumor cells produce an on-going ER stress response, which helps them to thrive. According to the researchers, tumor cells generate "transmissible ER stress." Specifically, they induce bystander cells to issue a similar stress response, most notably nearby macrophages, a type of white blood cell employed by the body's immune system to recognize and remove pathogens and cellular debris. Recently, several laboratories, including UC San Diego, have underscored the crucial role of inflammation in promoting cancer growth. A consequence of "transmissible ER stress" points to "receiver" macrophages as an important source of inflammation, which serves as an environmental cue for cancer development. "It's well-known that macrophages entering the tumor microenvironment lose the ability to aid the immune system in rejecting the tumor, and that they may actually play a role in actively suppressing anti-tumor immunity," said the scientists working in the study. "We believe that transmissible ER stress could be an important initial tumor-derived signal that promotes the 'brainwashing' of macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. It could be the first event in a cascade that results in the commandeering of macrophages by the tumor." If so, transmissible ER stress may represent a unifying mechanism that explains at least some of the earliest interactions between tumors and the immune system. "Our paper details the first evidence of this phenomenon," they said, adding that transmissible ER stress also presents a new, potential target for tumor- specific therapies and drugs. "Our findings suggest that development of therapies targeted against the tumor ER stress response may be doubly effective," they added. "Such therapies would target not only the tumor's intrinsic ability to cope with micro-environmental insults, but, at the same time, would impede the tumor cells' ability to nullify the anti- tumor immune response, perhaps allowing our bodies to more easily fight off tumors." Co-authors of the study are Navin R. Mahadevan and Jeffrey Rodvold, Laboratory of Immunology UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center and Biomedical Sciences Program; Homero Sepulveda, BD Biosciences, San Diego; Steven Rossi, UCSD Department of Pediatrics, Cancer Symptom Control Program; and Angela F. Drew, Department of Cancer and Cell Biology, University of Cincinnati. Funding for this research came,from grants from the UCSD Academic Senate, UCSD Medical Scientist Training Program and the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Story Source: University of California - San Diego. Journal Reference: Navin R. Mahadevan, Jeffrey Rodvold, Homero Sepulveda, Steven Rossi, Angela F. Drew, Maurizio Zanetti. Transmission of endoplasmic reticulum stress and pro-inflammation from tumor cells to myeloid cells. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2011; Editor's Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Vitamin D Important for Health of Blood Vessels, According to New Study

 A lack of vitamin D, even in
healthy people, is now linked
with stiff arteries and an
inability of blood vessels to

relax, based on new research
from the Emory/Georgia Tech

Predictive Health Institute.

The results of the study now add to evidence that
lack of vitamin D can lead to impaired vascular health,

contributing to high blood pressure and the risk of

cardiovascular disease. Study participants who

increased their vitamin D levels were able to improve
vascular health and lower their blood pressure.

The data was presented by cardiovascular
researchers at Emory University School of Medicine,
at the annual American College of Cardiology meeting
in New Orleans.

The 554 participants in the study were Emory or
Georgia Tech employees (average age 47) and are

generally healthy individuals. They are participating in

the Center for Health Discovery and Well Being of the

Emory/Georgia Tech Predictive Health Institute.

The average level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (stable form
of vitamin D reflecting diet as well as production in the
skin) in participants' blood was 31.8 nanograms per

milliliter. In this group, 14 percent had 25-hydroxyvitamin

D levels considered deficient, or less than 20 nanograms
per milliliter, and 33 percent had levels considered

insufficient, less than 30 nanograms per milliliter.

The researchers monitored the ability of participants'
blood vessels to relax by inflating and then removing a

blood pressure cuff on their arms. To allow blood to flow

back into the arm, blood vessels must relax and enlarge,
a change that can be measured by ultrasound. The
researchers also made other measurements of smaller
blood vessels and examined the resistance to blood flow

imposed by the arteries.

Even after controlling for factors such as age, weight
and cholesterol, people with lower vitamin D levels still

had stiffer arteries and impaired vascular function, the
researchers noted. "We found that people with vitamin D
deficiency had vascular dysfunction comparable to those

with diabetesor hypertension," they explained.

Throughout the body, a layer of endothelial cells lines
the blood vessels, controlling whether the blood vessels
constrict or relax and helping to prevent clots that lead
to strokes and heart attacks.

"There is already a lot known about how vitamin D
could be acting here," researchers said. "It could be

strengthening endothelial cells and the muscles
surrounding the blood vessels. It could also be reducing
the level of angiotensin, a hormone that drives increased
blood pressure, or regulating inflammation."

Most Americans generally get the majority of their
vitamin D from exposure to sunlight or from dietary

supplements; fortified foods such as milk or cereals
are also a source. Specific foods, such as oily fish,

naturally contain substantial amounts of vitamin D.

Participants whose vitamin D levels increased over the
next six months, either from dietary supplements or

ample sun exposure, tended to improve their measures
of vascular health and had lower blood pressure.

Forty-two study participants with vitamin D insufficiency
whose levels later went back to normal had an average
drop in blood pressure of 4.6 millimeters mercury.

With the new findings showing the relationship between
vitamin D deficiency and vascular dysfunction, the

study has helped advance the understanding of the
importance of Vitamin D in preventing a common health

problem in aging adults. Further ongoing health studies
based on the Center's collection of health information

from participants will yield more discovery as the Center
continues to develop."

The Emory-Georgia Tech Predictive Health Institute
is a national leader in moving the practice of medicine

from a reactive, disease-focused system to a proactive
health-focused system. The initiative integrates research,
scholarship and education in an innovative effort aimed
at revolutionizing care of people to define, preserve and
prolong the health of individuals and of society.

Key areas of the Initiative include defining and measuring
health using optimal biomarkers of health and understand
their interrelationships, determining the best interventions
to optimize health throughout an individual's or a
population's lifetime.

Source:

Emory University (2011, April 3).
Vitamin D levels linked with health of blood vessels.

Editor's Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice,

diagnosis or treatment.

Green Tea Manages Weight and Fat - According to Study

Green Tea is a Naturally-
Potent Source of
Antioxidants, Carotenoids,
Phytochemicals Known
To be Valuable For
Supporting Cardiovascular
Health, Immune Function
and Weight Management...

Consistently Supported by
Scientific Research

Laboratory subjects consuming green tea along with
a high fat diet gained less body weight and accumulated
less fat than animals not supplemented with tea, says a
new study.

Consuming the equivalent of five to eight cups of green
tea a day was associated with a 5.6 percent decrease
in body weight gain, and a 17.8 percent decrease in fat

accumulation over eight weeks, according to findings
published in Nutrition Research.

The researchers also noted a decrease in protein
digestion following green tea consumption, report researchers from Poznan University in Poland.
"Although both 1.1 and 2.0 percent green tea

aqueous extract doses improved cardiovascular risk
indicators, they, in addition, inhibited protein digestion,"

report the researchers.

"For that reason, results obtained in our study indicate
some difficulties in reconciling the high effectiveness

in prevention of cardiovascular risk factors with low
influence on dietary protein digestion," they added.

Tea Facts

The majority of science on tea has looked at green
tea, with benefits reported for reducing the risk of
Alzheimer's and certain cancers, improving
cardiovascular and oral health, as well as aiding
in weight management.

Green tea contains between 30 and 40 per cent of
water-extractable polyphenols, while black tea (green
tea that has been oxidized by fermentation) contains
between 3 and 10 per cent. Oolong tea is semi-
fermented tea and is somewhere between green and
black tea. The four primary polyphenols found in fresh tealeaves are epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG),
epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, and epicatechin.

The new study adds to the potential weight management
effects of green tea.

Study Details

Researchers fed laboratory-controlled animals a high-fat
diet, supplemented with 1.1 and 2.0 percent green tea
extract for eight weeks. Results showed that the subjects

had significantly lower measures of atherogenesis of
about 14.3 percent, compared to non-supplemented
animals.

In additions to the improvements in body weight and

decreased fat accumulation for the 2 percent green tea

group, the researchers noted that both green tea groups
displayed a reduction in digestion of protein of about 17
percent, compared with about 7 percent in the high fat
fed animals only.

"It was concluded that green tea extract may have
preventive effects on the accumulation of visceral fat but

only in higher doses," wrote the researchers. "Although
both doses improved cardiovascular risk indicators, they,
in addition, significantly inhibited protein digestion."

Source: Nutrition Research

Volume 31, Issue 2, Pages 157-164

"Green tea aqueous extract reduces visceral fat
and decreases protein availability in rats fed with
a high-fat diet"

Editor's Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice,

diagnosis or treatment.

The Ten Best Greens For Your Diet

The 10 Best Greens for You

If you’re dieting, you already know the importance of eating greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. Research shows that consuming dark greens may help you maintain good health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol and reducing your risk of heart disease. Dark greens are rich in beta-carotene, folate, and vitamins C, E, and K, which help protect against free radicals (unstable oxygen molecules that can damage cells). In addition to being dark leafy greens, arugula, beet greens, bok choy, collard greens, kale, mustard greens, Swiss chard, and turnip greens are cruciferous vegetables, which are packed with antioxidants that may help prevent cancer. Eating dark greens regularly may also protect against certain cancers, promote normal eyesight, and improve gastrointestinal function.
Include these 10 nutritional powerhouses in your diet:

1. Arugula
2. Beet greens
3. Bok choy
4. Collard greens
5. Kale
6. Mustard greens
7. Romaine and red-leaf lettuce
8. Spinach
9. Swiss chard
10. Turnip greens

How Much Is Enough?
The most recent dietary guidelines published by the US Department of Health and Human Services recommend consuming at least 3 cups of dark-green vegetables per week, but if you're like most Americans, you don't get enough. (On any diet, we recommend eating much more than 3 cups a week.) But the bottom line is that all vegetables contribute to a healthy eating plan. So eat a wide variety — green and all the other colors — throughout the week, and you'll be on your way to getting many of the nutrients you need.

***Taken from South Beach Diet.

Debilitating Ailments More Common In People Who Develop Diabetes in Their 50's

Debilitating Geriatric Ailments

More Common in Patients Who

Develop Diabetes in Their 50s

Middle-aged adults
with diabetes are much
more likely to develop

age-related conditions

than otherpeople who

don't have diabetes.

These are the findings of a new study by the University
of Michigan Health System and VA Ann Arbor Healthcare
System.

Adults between 51 and 70 with diabetes developed

age-related ailments like cognitive impairment,

incontinence, falls, dizziness, vision impairment and
pain at a faster rate than those without diabetes, the
study found. Results were published in the March issue
of the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

"Our findings suggest that middle age adults with
diabetes start to accumulate these age-related problems,"

said researchers from the family medicine and internal

medicine at the U-M Medical School and scientists at the
VA. "Because diabetes affects multiple organ systems, it
has the potential to contribute significantly to the
development of a number of issues that we associate
with aging."

For adults aged 51-60 with diabetes, the likelihood of
developing new geriatric conditions were nearly double

those of individuals who didn't have diabetes, the

researchers found. Interestingly, by the time people
with and without diabetes reach 80, the overall effects
of aging and impact of other diseases begin to reduce
the disparities between the two groups.

The research was based on nationally representative
data from the University of Michigan Health and

Retirement Study.

"The findings suggest that adults with diabetes should
be monitored for the development of these conditions

beginning at a younger age than we previously thought,"
report researchers from U-M Institute of Gerontology.

"If we know to start looking for these conditions earlier,
we can manage and treat them more effectively," they

add.

Sources and Funding:

The research was supported by the National Institute
on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Ann Arbor VA
Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center,
John A. Hartford Foundation Center of Excellence in
Geriatrics at the University of Michigan and Claude D.
Pepper Older Americans Independence Center at the
University of Michigan.

Editor's Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice,

diagnosis or treatment.

Visualize The New You!

The technique of visualization is intended to bring about major life changes by means of your thoughts and imagination. It's simple: Picture in your mind the object of your desire (whether it's a situation, an event, or an image of yourself) as vividly as possible. Spend time concentrating on the image, truly believing in it as if it were already real. Be detailed and comprehensive in creating the image, and be sure to include your emotional well-being in this vision as well.

The reason visualization is effective is that in some ways, your brain can't tell the difference between a real event and an imagined one — by using your imagination, you can create positive "experiences" that improve your self-image and your skills, help you release worry, realize your goals, and so on. The possibilities are endless.

You can now create an image of your body that fits your genetic type and potential. It must be an attainable vision, not one that will be out of reach. For example, I'm never gonna be able to slam-dunk like LeBron James — I'm five feet two! But it doesn't mean that I can't play one hell of a mean basketball game. I will be the best player that I can be, and at the end of the day that's what counts. Your imagination can be the source of your fear, but it can also provide the remedy.

By harnessing the power of your imagination and practicing visualization, you can make your mind work for you, not against you.


***Taken from: Everyday Health written by Jillian Michaels.

Linguine with Cannellini Beans and Summer Squash

Linguine with Cannellini Beans and Summer Squash

This is one of those dishes that you will find yourself returning to again and again!

So delicious that you won't mind serving it to guests! But tasty enough that even the kiddies will enjoy! And light enough that when you step away from the table, you won't be stuffed!

And it's a complete meal in itself! No need to add a thing for this dinner dish!

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

8 ounces dried whole-grain linguine

1-teaspoon olive oil

1/2 - small red onion, chopped

1 -small zucchini halved, thinly sliced crosswise

1 - small yellow summer squash halved, sliced thinly crosswise

2 -tablespoons water

1/4 - teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 [15.5-ounce] can no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

1 - large red tomato, chopped

2 - tablespoons snipped fresh basil

2 - tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1/4 - teaspoon sea salt

1/4 - cup shredded Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Prepare the pasta usingthe package directions. Drain well in a colander.

Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom of the pan. Cook the onion for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender-crisp.

Stir in the squashes, water and pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until the sqashes are tender-crisp, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the beans, tomato, basil and vinegar. Cook for 3 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Stir in the salt.

Serve the bean mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle with the Parmesan.

NUTRITIONAL INFO PER SERVING:

Calories: 416

Carbs: 81g

Fat: 4g

Protein: 18g

Sodium: 547mg

Turkey Taco Muffin Breakfast

Turkey Taco Muffin Breakfast

Serves 6

his is a great breakfast dish! Wonderful for brunch! And even the kiddies enjoy this Mexican flavor in a unique shape!

INGREDIENTS:

3-[6-inch] sone ground corn tortills

12 turkey sausage links [I used Jimmy Dean brand] cut in half width-wise

12-tablespoons chunky slalsa, heat of your choice

6 eggs, whisked together well

1/4-cup finely shredded low-fat cheddar cheese

1/4 cup sliced ripe olives, green or black [I used green]

non-stick cooking spray

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat oven t 400-degrees Farenheit.

2. Stack tortillas and cut into quarters, and then in halves agin [1/8 wedges].  Total of 24 wedges. Spray muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray.

3. Place one tortilla wedge in each muffin cup, witht he widest side at the bottom of the cup. Place a second tortilla wedge on the opposite side of the muffin cup so that the wide edges will be overlapping in the bottom of the cup...

...overlapping by about 1/4-inch.

Next, top with te sausage halves...

...two halves per cup, like so.

Next top with 1-tablespoon salsa...

...as shown here.

Now add 3-tablespoons of the egg mixture to each cup.

I used a turkey baster to do this, and found it a quick, mess-free way to accurately divide the eggs among the 12-cups. Works well for me!

Quick, easy and no mess!

Place the baking pan in the oven. Allow to bake for 10-minutes, or until eggs are just set and no longer wiggle. They will be slightly puffed.

While the eggs are baking, shred the cheese....

...and slie the olives.

Remove the pan from the oven and top with olives and cheese, divided evenly among the twelve cups.

Makes 12 Turkey Taco Muffins, two per serving!

Nutritional Stats

Per 2 muffin serving:

Calories: 206

Carbs: 8g

Fats: 11g

Protein: 16g

Sodium: 617mg

Broiled Dijon Tilapia

Broiled Dijon Tilapia

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

Non-stick cooking spray

3 tablespoons light mayonnaise

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard [lowest sodium available]

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crumbled

4 tilapia fillets [about 4-oz. each], rinsed, and patted dry

1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 cup whol wheat panko crumbs

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the broiler. Line a baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.

In a cup, stir together the mayonnaise, mustard, and oregano. Set aside.

Put the fish on the baking pan. Sprinkle the top with the pepper. Spread the mayonnaise mixture over the top of the fish. Sprinkle with 2 tabelspoons panko over each fillet. You can lightly press the panko into place if needed.

Place the pan on the lowest level of the oven awy from the broiler. Allow to cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and the panko has browned.

Serves well with broccoli and corn on the cob!

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

PER SERVING:

Calories: 165

Carbs: 8g

Fats: 6g

Protein: 22g

Sodium: 209mg

***This recipe is adapted from one with the same name from Eat Smart, Best Recipes Special, March 2011, 2011 Publications International, Ltd., p 38.

Can I Get Him To Quit? Probably Not...

I've written before that Texican is a smoker. He smokes more than a pack a day, and sometimes to the extreme of more than two packs a day!

On his last visit to the doctor, she told him she could stand there and tell him that at 61 he should stop smoking, but he's been smoking since he was seven-years-old, and she said she knew he wouldn't listen to her if he wouldn't listen to me! [I have a chronic lung condition, and he still won't stop! Even for MY HEALTH!]

And I don't ask him to. I have asked him to cut back. Which he'll try to do for a few days or weeks, but then he's right back up to that pack, or two, a day before you know it. So, I doubt he'll ever stop.

And I don't ask him to stop! I may sound silly to some people, especially in this day and age of health consciousness not to harp on him to stop. But he's smoked all of his life, and if it gives him such great pleasure, and it does!, then who am I to take that away from him at this age!

Could it kill him?

Certainly!!! But then so could getting behind the wheel of a car! Or walking alongside a road! Or even horseback riding! Slipping in the shower!

I won't be the one to take that pleasure away from him!

But he does get frustrated! Our society was a smoking society when he was a young man! One couldn't walk into a restaurant or any other establishment for that matter, and not find ashtray's and smoker friendly atmosphere! Today however, we have banned smoking from all public buildings! And it frustrates those of his generation to no end!

That's why I am seriously considering the purchase of an electronic cigarette for him!

blu  is one of the companies that is now manufacturing these electronic cigarettes. You can visit their website here: http://blucigs.com/?utm_source=blogsvertise&utm_medium=cpa&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=blogsvertise_cpc_cpa

I am impressed that blu can be smoked most anywhere! And instead of smoke, it eliminates a vapor, thus elminating the hazards of second-hand smoke to others nearby! Yet it gives the "smoker" all of the nicotine and flavor of a real cigarette! It also comes in a variety of flavors, including Classic Tobacco for the individual who wants to maintain the flavor of a "real" cigarette.

The cost is comparable to the real thing, and yet, it is something he can still "smoke" when in most public places!

If you are a smoker who refuses to quit, or you know someone who is, then this just might be the solution for you as well! I highly recommend that you visit:
http://blucigs.com/?utm_source=blogsvertise&utm_medium=cpa&utm_content=text&utm_campaign=blogsvertise_cpc_cpa
and see for yourself just what they have to offer!

Matter of fact, I'm heading that way right now! Meet ya there!

Looking For Cotton Scrubs

As a retired nurse, I have always enjoyed simply looking at scrub uniforms when I am shopping. Whether that is online, or when visiting the mall! I know I won't buy scrubs again for myself, but I have in-law's [sweet daughters-in-law] who work in scrubs and so I am often looking for great gifts for them as well!

I always especially enjoyed wearing cotton scrubs.  They were simply the most comfortable, and easiest maintained working outfit for me! [I worked in geriatrics for my entire career as a nurse.] Easy to care for, easy to clean, and easy to press for that professional look!

Hospital uniforms have taken on an all new look as well! With a myriad assortment of surgical caps and patterns available today, one can look as trendy as one wants, without appearing less fashion savvy as those plain white uniforms we had to wear in the past!

There are a plethors of places available to purchase fashion trendy and colorful scrubs today, but I think all of my future purchases for gifts will be made at  Blue Sky Scrubs. You can visit their website here: http://www.blueskyscrubs.com/ Simply put,  I think they're the best on the market ! Quality, price, and style are certainly better than any I've seen elsewhere! And the website is consumer friendly! It's easily navigated, and well worth a visit!

I highly recommend this great place to shop!

Jessica Loses 120 - Pounds!

Jessica, East Hartford, Connecticut

Through Jillian Michael's  program, Jessica gained not only the motivation to lose 120 pounds* in a year, but also the confidence to love herself again. Now she does things she never dreamed possible — including training for a marathon!

I have always been what is called big boned. Even as a child, I was the biggest girl in the class. While I was in middle school, I went through very tough situations and became very introverted. I stopped playing sports, I stopped hanging out with friends, and I stopped living life. Throughout the next four years, I continued to put on weight and ended up graduating high school at 244 pounds. Having no real plans or goals after high school, I became even more depressed, and within a year my weight had ballooned all the way up to 310 pounds. By the time my twenty-first birthday came around, I knew I wanted a different life, but I didn’t know how to get it or even if I deserved it. At that time, I began to try everything — from pills to shakes to starving myself on just fruits and veggies for a year — in order to lose the pounds I had packed on. I did lose weight, but as with all quick-fix fad diets, I eventually put it back on and found myself feeling more depressed, less motivated, and struggling to believe I could lose weight for good.

Then one of my best friends cut me out of her life, and I was devastated. I hated myself and knew that until I began to make a change — in my body and how I viewed myself — my world would never be different. I got on the New Year’s resolution bandwagon and decided to try to lose the weight one last time. At 290 pounds, I knew I needed a lasting change, and I felt that getting healthy would be the first step toward improving my life.

In late January, I saw my first episode of The Biggest Loser and was totally drawn in by the fact that these were people dealing with the same struggles as me, and actually doing something real about it! I began to start thinking that if they could do it, so could I. I decided to check out JillianMichaels.com — within a week, I was hooked. The amount of information, encouragement, and support, along with the sincere sense of community I felt on the Message Boards, made me feel like I belonged and gave me the strength I needed to begin believing in myself again. I also loved Jillian’s in-your-face, aggressive approach to weight loss, and how she doesn’t take no for an answer or give in to excuses.

She doesn’t just talk about the physical aspects of weight loss but instead takes a holistic approach.

What I saw in her on The Biggest Loser was a true sense of concern and compassion for the people she was training, and I knew that behind her “bad ass” attitude was a woman who truly cared about people and wanted to see them reach their potential! I invested in all things Jillian — I bought her DVDs and books and began listening to her podcasts. I became a huge admirer of this woman who could create such a safe community and help millions of people without even having to meet them.

Along this journey, I faced many challenges. My friends and family turned out to be less supportive than I had hoped. I started attending classes at the local college while also working, and I didn’t have a lot of money, so a gym membership was out of the question. What I realized was that if losing weight was something I really wanted, I needed to be a little creative and disciplined. I also learned to create boundaries and communicate with the people around me in a more honest way.

For exercise, I followed the circuit-training program on Jillian’s Web site four days a week, while including extra cardio or DVD workouts each day. I added two full cardio days and one rest day a week. I have done everything from walking countless miles around my neighborhood to climbing the stairs at my college stadium for hours — anything to keep myself moving. I completely reformulated my relationship with food. I went from seeing food as a reward or a cure to seeing it as a form of energy that would sustain me through my day. With that in mind, I stopped drinking soda, cut out processed foods, and began to eat more cleanly. I even began counting calories, sticking to the program's recommended 1200-1400 per day allotment, and keeping track of everything, from how much water I was drinking to how much sodium I was taking in each day.

During the past year, my life has changed completely. Not only have I lost 120 pounds, but I’ve learned to love myself again and found real joy in actually living my life. I can do so much more now than I ever dreamed possible. I am an active participant in my classes, I can chase my nieces and nephews around for hours, and I am open to sharing myself with the world around me. I love that I can shop anywhere now. I started my weight loss journey wearing a size 22/24 pant and a 1X or 2X shirt. I couldn’t just go to the mall and pick out anything I wanted to wear because most of the time things didn’t fit or the store didn’t have my size — so I hated shopping and stuck to getting cute shoes or handbags. Now I wear a size 10 pant and medium shirts, so the options for fun clothes to wear are endless! I want to lose 20 more pounds and sculpt my body, but for the first time in my life, I know without a doubt that I can do this — and anything else I want to in life — as long as I am willing to work hard and not give up.

Activities now: I had always wanted to be a runner, but never in my wildest dreams did I ever think that I would actually run in a race. So far I have run in a 5K and a 5-mile race, and I am currently training to run in both a half and full marathon this year! These are things I never would have thought I could do before, and here I am doing them! It’s super exciting!

Best compliment: The most meaningful compliments I have received are words of encouragement and support from Jillian’s members on the Message Boards. There’s something so special about having someone who’s on this journey with you tell you that you inspire or motivate them. Beyond that, I love seeing friends I haven’t seen since before I lost the weight and watching their amazement at what a person can do in a year!

Advice for others: To everyone on this journey, or those thinking about starting this journey, my advice is simple: DO the WORK! Weight loss is hard. It takes time, it takes effort, it takes getting educated, and it takes a willingness to look at your skeletons, but it’s all WORTH it… and YOU are worth it! Everything in life is a choice — you choose what you want, where you will go, and how you will get there — and ultimately it is you who will choose to change your life! You CAN do this, and you’ve got great support on Jillian’s Web site to help you along the way!

*Weight loss varies by individual. You may not achieve similar results.

****The above article was taken from the Jillian Michael's blog.

Blueberries May Inhibit The Development of Fat Cells!

Blueberries May Inhibit Development of Fat Cells The health benefits of regular blueberry consumption have been demonstrated in several nutrition studies, more specifically the cardio-protective benefits derived from their high polyphenol content. Blueberries have shown potential to have a positive effect on everything from aging to metabolic syndrome. With this new study, nutrition research scientists believe blueberries could play a major role in reducing obesity. The research team from Texas Woman's University (TWU) in Denton, TX wanted to evaluate whether blueberry polyphenols play a role in adipocyte differentiation. It is the process in which an unspecialized cell acquires specific features of an adipocyte, a connective tissue cell specialized for the synthesis and storage of fat. Plant polyphenols have been shown to fight adipogenesis, which is the development of fat cells, and induce lipolysis, which is the breakdown of lipids and fat. They wanted to see if using blueberry polyphenols could inhibit obesity at a molecular stage. The study was performed in tissue cultures taken from laboratory subjects. The polyphenols showed a dose-dependent suppression of adipocyte differentiation. The lipid content in the control group was significantly higher than the content of the tissue given three doses of blueberry polyphenols. The highest dose of blueberry polyphenols yielded a 73% decrease in lipids; the lowest dose showed a 27% decrease. "We still need to test this dose in humans, to make sure there are no adverse effects, and to see if the doses are as effective. This is a burgeoning area of research. Determining the best dose for humans will be important" they said. "The promise is there for blueberries to help reduce adipose tissue from forming in the body." These preliminary results contribute more items to the laundry list of benefits related to blueberries, which have already been shown to mitigate health conditions like cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. Story Source: Experimental Biology 2011 meeting for the American Society for Nutrition on April 10 Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (2011, April 11). Blueberries may inhibit development of fat cells. Editor's Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Know and Prevent The Top Health Risks for Women

Know  and Prevent the Top Health Risks for Women

It's important to be aware of the top health risks for women, since healthy habits can help prevent many issues. Take a look at the following list and get inspired about common-sense things you can do to reduce your risks.

1. Heart Disease. Heart disease is a major health threat for women as well as men. To help prevent this disease: avoid smoking and alcohol; manage your stress; get active; eat a healthy diet; and maintain a healthy weight. Be sure to keep your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar at healthy levels.
2. Stroke. If you're following the above recommendations for heart disease, you'll be doing a lot to prevent strokes as well. Having diabetes or high blood pressure increases the risk for strokes so be sure to follow your doctor's recommendations for managing these conditions.
3. Cancer. In addition to the healthy lifestyle tips that help reduce the risk of heart disease, include these tips below to help reduce your risk of cancer: see your doctor for regular cancer screenings (including mammograms); be careful about sun exposure and always use sunscreen; and make sure your diet includes lots of antioxidant-rich fresh fruits and vegetables.
4. Type 2 Diabetes. If left unchecked, diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease, nerve damage, kidney and eye disease. Losing weight or adopting some healthy habits like eating a healthy diet and increasing physical activity can help lower your risk for type 2 diabetes.
5. Osteoporosis. It's never too late to take good care of your bones. Help prevent osteoporosis by getting the calcium and vitamin D you need, incorporating weight bearing activity (walking, tennis, resistance training) and avoiding alcohol, excess caffeine and smoking.
6. Alzheimer's Disease. Although there is no proven way to prevent Alzheimer's, try to boost your "brain power" through socializing, puzzles, games and ongoing education and interests. Following the tips to prevent heart disease and stroke may also confer some preventive benefit.

Source: mayoclinic.com

Cranberries for Health!

Cranberry Demonstrates Heart Health Benefits Reported From Important New Study Polyphenol-rich cranberry juice may boost heart health by helping alleviate stiffness of the arteries, reports an important new study from the Boston and Tufts Universities. High concentrate Cranberry containing 835 milligrams of total polyphenols and 94 mg of anthocyanins was associated withimprovements in a measure of arterial stiffness known as Carotid Femoral Pulse Wave Velocity, according tofindings published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The research scientists report no benefits were observed from cranberry juice consumption for other measures of vascular or cardiovascular function, including blood pressure or brachial artery flow- mediated dilation; This measures endothelial dysfunction... A low value is indicative of a blood vessel's inability torelax. "We did observe a highly significant effect of cranberry juice on stiffness of the central aorta, which isincreasingly recognized as an important measure of vascular function with relevance to cardiovascular disease," wrote the Boston University researchers. "Overall, our results may provide further support for the American Heart Association recommendation that cardiovascular disease risk may be reduced by a diet rich in vegetables and fruit including cranberries," they added. Established and Emerging Health Benefits of Cranberries Cranberry is well known for its ability to fight urinary tract infections. Currently, nearly onethird of parents in the US give Cranberry juice to their children, according to a recent statistics. In 2004, France became the first country to approve a specific health claim for the North American cranberry species (Vaccinium macrocarpon) which states that it can "help reduce the adhesion of certain E.coli bacteria to the urinary tract walls." Other health conditions that may benefit from cranberry include stomach health, with numerous reports indicating that the berry's natural constituents may inhibit the adhesion of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach.H. pylori is the bacteria known to cause peptic ulcers and gastritis. In addition studies have suggested that proanthocyanidin- rich cranberry extracts may inhibit the growth and spread of human oesophageal adenocarcinoma (a cancer in glandular tissue), or may prevent colon cancervia an anti-inflammatory mechanism. For the Boston-based study, he researchers performed two studies: The first was an acute pilot study with no placebo involving 15 participants; the second was a chronic placebo-controlled crossover study with 44 participants with coronary artery disease. In the acute, non-placebo controlled, pilot study, the researchers reported that cranberry juice (480 mL) was associated with improvements in both brachial artery flow-mediated dilation, from 7.7 percent before ingestion to 8.7 percent four hours after ingestion, as well as improved digital pulse amplitude tonometry ratio. However, in the placebo-controlled, cross-over study, no such changes were observed. "Additional studies will be needed to determine how cranberry juice reduces central aortic stiffness, but our finding of improved pulse wave velocity without a change in endothelial function may be consistent with an effect at the level of the arterial wall or a change in sympathetic tone," the researchers added. The study was funded by cranberry supplier Ocean Spray and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Published online) "Effects of cranberry juice consumption on vascular function in patients with coronary artery disease" Editor's Note: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Sweet Potato & Cabbage Slaw

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 1/2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups coarsely grated peeled sweet potato, (about 1 large)
• 3 cups thinly shredded napa, or Savoy cabbage
• 4 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon finely minced serrano, or jalapeno pepper with seeds (optional)

Preparation

1. Whisk canola oil, lime juice, sesame oil and salt in a large bowl. Add sweet potato, cabbage, scallions and serrano (or jalapeno), if using; toss to combine. Serve immediately.

Tips & Notes

• Make Ahead Tip: Refrigerate dressing and slaw separately for up to 1 day; toss together just before serving.

Nutrition

Per serving: 82 calories; 6 g fat ( 1 g sat , 3 g mono ); 0 mg cholesterol; 7 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 1 g protein; 1 g fiber; 212 mg sodium; 104 mg potassium.

When a "Good" Thing Isn't So Good!

As many of you who follow my daily blog are aware, I went to the doctor this past week for a recheck following a bout with chronic sarcoidosis [an inflamation of the lungs]. It appears that this time it is dissipating according to plan, and I am doing much better.

However, my ever expanding girth was quickly noted by our family doctor. For the first time in my life, I am looking like I am all belly!!! [Except for those periods of time when I was actually pregnant and carrying a baby, that is!]

And yes.... it almost appears that I have a pregnant belly at times!

The first thing our doctor said was that we needed to vigilantly check my blood sugar. Why? Because a quick check showed my blood glucose at 410 mg/dl. [Wow! That's EXTREMELY high!] Yeah... it should be somewhere around the 100 mark.

It seems a rather increasing belly is a sign or symptom of pre-diabetes. As well as an indicator of heart disease. [I have had high blood pressure problems my entire adult life.]

And so... at the ripe old age of 51, I am having to really look at my life, and determine what I can do to make it a longer, and more productive life!

This means really walking the walk of the Healthy Living Advocate! Not just talking the talk!

And so, this week, I began a true log of everything that I eat. Weighing out and measuring the foods that I consume. As well as diligently beginning to exercise.

We live in a fast paced society, that makes it all too easy for us to choose a "fast" diet as well. With the economy the way it is, sometimes it is not only easier, but even cheaper, to feed the family from Hardee's, or Wendy's, or McDonald's!

What we've got to do is take back control of our lives, and stop allowing the media and advertisements around us to dictate what and how we consume our meals! We have to take responsibility for ourselves and make assertive, pro-active choices.

I may be a little old to be starting this game... but it's never too late! After all, I fully intend to be around another 40 years or so!!!

Are you ready to make a committment? A real committment???

Munchie Needed?

In the need of a quick nack, but you're not looking for something filling?

Try this!

4 regular sized marshmallows contain:

Calories: 100

Carbs: 6g

Fats: 0

Protein: 0

Sodium: 0

Sometimes that's all the snack we really need!

Keep either 4 or 8 in a snack sized zip-lock bag for quick snack retrieval when you're simply not really hungry, but need to have that two hour snack at the ready!

Kids appreciate this yummy snack as well! And by pre-counting them out and putting them in the baggies, kids have the exact amount needed for a controlled snack by you, Mom!

Be prepared!!!