Go Bananas Over Bananas
 
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It’s no surprise that bananas are a fruit favorite around the world, packed with nutrients and antioxidants, rich in fiber and low in fat, they are little powerhouses of good nutrition. In our never-ending quest to stay healthy without sacrificing our taste buds, bananas are a clear go-to and they are quite versatile. Dr. Christopher Calapai D.O. a highly accredited New York City anti-aging and stem cell specialist, and long-time nutrition advisor to the New York Rangers hockey team explains, “Bananas are packed with health benefits throughout every stage of their lives, from green to fully ripe. As the banana ripens some of these health benefits change, making it a rare fruit that is enjoyable in many forms.”
 
Typically when we think of bananas we think of a lunch-box addition or a quick on-the-go snack, more so than a cooking staple? Here are 5 healthy ways to incorporate bananas into your meals and the health benefits of each.
 
When they’re green...
 
Fill Up on Mashed Plantains.
Green bananas are often referred to as plantains, they are not sweet like ripe bananas and they contain most of their fiber in the form of resistant starch. “Plantains are rich in starches that regulate appetite,” says Dr. Calapai. “Resistant starch may even slow stomach emptying, making you feel full longer and thus reducing the urge to eat sooner after a meal.” 
 
Bonus! Mashed plantains could not be easier to whip up. Simply peel and cut the green plantains into chunks and boil in a full pot of water for 20-30 minutes or until tender, then mash with a fork until they achieve the consistency of mashed potatoes. Sautee garlic and onions in olive oil and add to the plantains along with salt and pepper and any other seasonings you enjoy. You can serve the dish with fish, chicken or meat, sprinkle with bacon bits or eat plain. 
 
Satisfy your craving for something salty, crunchy with plantain chips.
“All bananas, green, ripe or in between are very low in calories, about 105 per fruit” explains Calapai “So you can get away with frying them in your choice of light, heart-healthy oil.” Plantain chips are a great snack or side dish and are also incredibly simple to whip up. Peel the plantain completely and cut off about half an inch on both ends, then thinly slice the rest of the plantain into chips. When the oil is piping hot fry your chips until golden and salt to taste. Voila!
 
When they’re semi-ripe...
 
Eat "Maduros" for younger, healthy skin. 
"Maduro" (pronounced mah-doo-row) means "ripe" in Spanish and it’s what Latin Americans call this tasty plantain dish. You can eat plantains this way once they are very yellow and spotted, or have turned fully black. Simply peel, cut into thick diagonal slices and deep fry until golden brown in heart-healthy oil. Bonus! “Bananas at any stage of ripeness are very rich in Vitamin C, an antioxidant also known as called ascorbic acid,” says board certified dermatologist Dr. Kally Papantoniou. “Vitamin C assists in collagen production, which keeps your skin healthy and also blocks free-radical damage which is believed to potentially contribute to the aging process.”  
 
When they’re ripe...
 
Manage blood sugar with a banana smoothie.
This one takes five minutes and a blender. Cut up two nice yellow, ready to eat bananas into chunks, add milk or yogurt of your preferred variety, some ice, and blend until thick! “Bananas have shown by studies to possibly regulate blood sugar as they are very moderate in the glycemic index, meaning they don’t cause dangerous spikes to your blood sugar levels,” says Dr. Calapai “Having a good banana smoothie for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, as opposed to high-sugar options make sure you are balanced throughout the day.”
 
Amp up the flavor!
If simply eating a banana starts to get boring amp up the flavor with a healthy pairing. Cut up your banana into chunks and add a healthy spoonful of peanut butter, sprinkle with some almonds or cinnamon, or mix with some dark chocolate chunks!
 
Bananas are a great, affordable way to add some goodness into your meal plan. Enjoy! 

National organization wants Canada to be the Silicon Valley of natural products

Natural Products Canada (NPC), the national centre of excellence for the commercialization of natural products, has completed its initial round of hiring, setting the stage for Canadians to benefit from a thriving natural products sector.

"We have formed a national team to help Canada benefit from the growing global demand for natural products," says Shelley King, CEO of NPC. "We're ready to help companies and researchers access the resources they need to bring validated ideas to market faster, cheaper, and more efficiently."

The initial hires will focus on NPC's mandate to align and optimize Canada's assets – natural resources, technologies, platforms, expertise, and world-class research – into a vibrant, pan-Canadian natural products ecosystem that can save time and effort for natural product companies.

Along with King, the NPC team is comprised of Sue Coueslan, VP Communications and Stakeholder Relations; and Karen Wight, VP Investment and Finance. In addition, NPC has hired its first three regional directors: David Gauthier of NPC-West will work closely with the regional node, Ag-WestBio; Paul-Thomas Lacroix of NPC-Quebec will work closely with Quebec's regional node, the Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods, Université Laval; and Stephen Ball of NPC-Atlantic will work closely with the Atlantic node, the PEI BioAlliance. Other regional directors will be recruited in the near future.

NPC was announced February 12, 2016 by the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. Since then, King and the Board of Directors have been engaged in strategic planning and recruitment.

"There is real potential for Canada to be a global leader in the commercialization of natural products and technologies," says Board Chair, Robert Orr, a 35-year veteran of the food, nutritional ingredient, and private equity investment business. "We have spent the last few months working with stakeholders across the country to shape the plan that will turn that potential into reality."

Partnering with a wide range of private and public investors, experts, and organizations, NPC will create a unique commercialization system to help companies and researchers address the many factors involved in bringing high value products to the marketplace.

Key initiatives for the first year of operations include launching the NPC investment program and developing a database of the technologies, platforms, service providers, investors, and expertise essential to the successful commercialization of natural products.

Natural Products Canada (NPC) is a not-for-profit organization with a vision to make Canada flourish as the Silicon Valley of natural products. It aims to align, expand, and optimize the pan-Canadian natural products ecosystem to accelerate the development of products and technology platforms that bring real value to real customers. NPC was established in 2015, and is funded by a range of public and private investors, including the Government of Canada's Centre of Excellence in Commercialization and Research (CECR) program administered by the Networks of Centres of Excellence.

 

NPC

Image with caption: "Newly formed Natural Products Canada will align and optimize existing assets, expertise, and investments into a national ecosystem to accelerate the commercialization of natural products and technology platforms. From left to right: Sue Coueslan, Paul-Thomas Lacroix, Karen Wight, David Gauthier, Shelley King (CEO), and Stephen Ball. (CNW Group/Natural Products Canada)". Image available at:  http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160926_C4884_PHOTO_EN_780944.jpg

SOURCE Natural Products Canada

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WRAPPING YOUR MIND AROUND THE “NEW YOU” AFTER WEIGHT LOSS

5 Common Things That Happen When

You Lose A Noticeable Amount Of Weight

Whenever someone chooses to commit to a weight loss journey, it’s not just a physical transformation that happens, but a mental transformation as well. Regardless of how long it takes for people to reach their goal weight, there are significant things that occur along the way that impact their body image and confidence. For all of the positive reinforcement once receives, they might also notice some negativity or odd reactions from those they are close to. Read on for tips and insights from leading experts that will offer clarity and solutions for anyone seeking to transform or who already has.

 

  1. You shed friends along with pounds.

Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD a NYC based licensed neuropsychologist, a teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College, explains that, “It is normal to lose friends as you lose pounds. As you see the payoff from the lifestyle changes you’ve made you may feel disconnected with friends who may still eat and drink things you no longer do. You’re evolving,” offers Dr. Hafeez. She also adds that, “It’s common to notice jealousy, and digs. You may even experience exclusion from dinners out presuming you wouldn’t want to indulge.”

 

Have faith that your true friends will love you at any size. “It will actually be difficult to tolerate any gossip, negativity or activities that are counterproductive. The last thing you need are people who bring you down when you are doing something positive for your well being. Look out for yourself. At times that may mean distancing from certain people,” advises Dr. Hafeez.

 

  1. Loose skin becomes the new thing you notice.Once you reach your goal weight, you may love how you look in clothes but naked in or a bathing suit is a whole other story. This is most common when weight loss is significant. Even when weight training is part of the regimen, loose skin does happen.

 

Dr. John Zannis a board certified plastic surgeon based in New Bern, North Carolina frequently sees and treats patients who went through a weight loss transformation. According to Dr. Zannis, “Loose skin can gather at the stomach, under arms, breasts, buttocks, inner thighs, face and neck. The more significant the weight-loss is, say 50 pounds and above, the more likely a plastic surgeon is sought out to explore body lifts that specifically address loose skin after weight-loss.”

 

  1. You have more energy, are excited about life and can do more!

As you change your diet, add daily exercise to your new lifestyle and see the weight melt off, you gain energy! You don’t feel the need to hit the snooze button anymore. You may wake up energized for that 7am powerwalk or you may be inspired by that beautiful new dress you get to wear to work, another dress size dropped. Yay!

 

“Use newfound energy to your advantage, encourages Dr. Hafeez, your brain is forming new neuropathways as your perception about your body starts to change. That flight of stairs that was once an obstacle is much easier. Simple things like putting on shoes, picking up toys and pushing a vacuum are done with ease. As you take notice of what your body can do, you gain more confidence and want to do more. This energizes you both physically and mentally,” she adds.

 

  1. Shopping gets interesting.

It is common to get overwhelmed with options now that you can shop the way you always dreamed of.  Perhaps your new strong, shapely legs have inspired you to wear dresses again for the first time in years. Or after always covering your arms, you may opt for sleeveless tops. Either way, trying new looks outside of your comfort zone can be daunting. Dr. Hafeez advises to, shop on your own or with someone you really trust. “It is important that shopping is made to be fun by approaching it as a style experiment. Don’t expect everything to look perfect just because you are a much smaller size. Some things will work, others won’t. Look for clothes that feel good. When you smile in the mirror that’s a sign you’re on track.”

 

  1. You make yourself, your health and well being top priority and start to inspire others.

When you lose a noticeable amount of weight other people want to know how you did it and how you are keeping the weight off. Your immediate family may also adapt to your dietary changes and experience weight loss by association. When your kids see you wake up every morning to exercise they see that anything worth having requires commitment. Your significant other may be inspired to also lose weight. “When you take care of yourself and are in a positive mindset, it has a positive impact on everyone you interact with. When the mind and body are aligned you love the way you look and feel, you’re happy and someone others can look up to.”

For information on Dr. Sanam Hafeez visit: http://comprehendthemind.com/about-us/

For information on Dr. John Zannis visit: http://www.zannisplasticsurgery.com/plastic-surgeon-new-bern-nc/

I was luck enough to attend an event put on by Clif Bar for National Organic Week. It was a launch dinner at Café Belong restaurant, located at Evergreen Brick Works in Toronto.

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There was a great group of people with diverse backgrounds who attended. I had the chance to meet some wonderful people in the community. Renowned Chef and Food Network star, Brad Long designed a special local and organic menu. COTA provided guests with the latest news about their important work and the organic industry in Canada, including a preview of new national data about Canadian organic consumers. Clif Bar’s Matthew Dillon was n hand to share Clif Bar’s organic journey and the important role of organic farming in helping create a healthier, more just and sustainable food system.

  • About Matthew Dillon: www.clifbar.com/article/matthew-dillon
  • About Krumm Country Farms: www.clifbar.com/article/brian-krumm-FS2014(video)
  • More about organics at Clif Bar: www.clifbar.com/hubs/organic-sustainable

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    Even though I had to leave a bit early I still walked away with lots of information on Organics in Canada and how Clif Bar works with Organics. I also got a cool swag back with seeds and a shovel to plant my own organics. And a few yummy clif bars to enjoy! Thanks for having me Clif and I can't wait to attend more of your events!

  • genuine-health

    The movement of people taking better care of themselves is on the rise. Nutritional supplements are growing – there are yoga studios on every corner, and hipster juice bars on every other corner – all in the name of achieving incredible health.  A big component of that is getting more fruits and veggies. It’s true that every little bit counts, but have you ever stopped to wonder how much goodness is in that “all-in-one” tub or $8 juice? Not as much as you’d think. The need for proven, clean nutrition is more important than ever, and the solution is greens+.

    Boost your nutritional intake, energy and vitality with Canada’s first and only research-proven superfood formula that offers a greater quantity and richer variety than everyday, healthy foods – with up to 350% more concentrated phytonutrient content vs. competing green superfoods! Backed by nine research studies, Genuine Health is the leader in green food nourishment and just one serving of greens+ daily provides a synergistic blend of over 23 plant-based essential nutrients in a formula that is high alkaline-forming and rich in antioxidants.

    To the nutrition geeks at heart, the people at Genuine Health knew the value of fruits and veggies when they launched greens+ almost 25 years ago. Standing the test of time as Canada’s favourite superfood supplement, greens+ provides consumers with results that they feel. The concentrated formula of phyto (plant) nutrients contributes to a healthy gut; supports liver function and a healthy brain; boosts mood and energy; balances hormones, and builds your immune system among many other amazing benefits! How do the phytonutrients in greens+ stack up against popular juice and smoothie foods, and other green food supplements? Genuine Health put greens+ under the microscope alongside some nutritionally potent foods to compare phytonutrient levels, gram for gram:

     

     

    An average of 350% more concentrated fruits and veggies vs other green food and all-in-one supplements, greens+ packs a plant nutrient-rich boost! Notably, greens+ containing products have up to 6 times more total polyphenols than nutritional gold standards, such as kale and blueberries. Combined with the proven pH balancing and energy boosting properties of greens+, this one-of-a-kind phytonutrient formula protects and balances your body, and most importantly, makes you feel amazing!

    If you make one change for amazing health - make it one daily scoop of greens+!

    greens+ ORIGINAL:

    Get your greens…PLUS! A blend of 23 colourful and nourishing plant ingredients, providing the most abundant source of health-promoting plant nutrients available in a single serving - greens+ is the ONLY superfood proven to give you the highest concentration of fruits and veggies, balance your pH, increase your energy and more!

    Key Benefits:

    •Up to 350% MORE phytonutrient concentration per serving vs. competitive green food supplements!

    •Made with Non-GMO ingredients, greens+ is the only superfood formula in Canada that’s proven by research to establish a balanced, total body system with healthy pH

    •Increases vitality, improves mood and provides more energy for your day

    •Provides antioxidant and polyphenol protection comparable to a diet super-rich in fresh fruits and veggies

    greens+ ORIGINAL is available in three flavours: original, mixed berry, and tangerine, and can be found at your local health food, grocery and drug retailers. Visit www.genuinehealth.com to find a store near you.

    VEGAN greens+ O:

    VEGAN greens+ O was formulated especially for those who are both passionate and sensitive about the foods they eat. Genuine Health kept the foundation of the award-winning, research-proven and phytonutrient-rich greens+ formula, and removed the allergens, replacing them with equally effective, innovative ingredients - such as organic spirulina, broccoli sprouts, chia seeds, and sunflower lecithin - to ensure that consumers will continue to feel the difference… and experience the BEST tasting greens+ yet!

    Key Benefits:

    •Rich in phytonutrients

    •Provides antioxidant protection

    •Improves cardiovascular health

    •Improves mood & cognitive Function

    •Boosts energy & vitality

    •Improves digestive health

    •High pH Acid/Alkaline

    •Gluten-free, soy-free, non-GMO and vegan

    VEGAN greens+ O is available in three flavours: Acai Mango, Unflavoured and Vanilla, and can be found at your local health food, grocery and drug retailers. Visit www.genuinehealth.com to find a store near you.

    About Genuine Heath 

    Genuine Health makes natural supplements that people are passionate about and because they work. Founder and CEO Stewart Brown’s love for natural health started early in life when he suffered with health issues and found solutions through holistic modalities and supplements. After opening his own chain of natural supplement stores and witnessing first-hand how some products work and some didn’t for his customers, Stewart met Sam Graci, the formulator of the now infamous greens+ and experienced firsthand the effects of taking a product that makes a difference to your health. Today, Genuine Health has over 170 products sold in both Canada and the US, and is focused on empowering people to live life with passion by embracing natural health through products that improve their lives – every day!

    Thanksgiving may be a holiday that we share with our neighbours to the south, but the way we celebrate it is all our own.  We don’t give thanks in November (October’s where it’s at!) and it’s not all about football, turkey pardoning and parades with Canadians. We simply like good friends, good family, and good food.

    So if you are looking for a new pumpkin pie recipe. I suggest to give this Carnation Classic Pumpkin Pie a try! You can substitute any of the ingredients you want if you want to give it a healthy twist! For more information about Carnation or recipes visit their website: http://www.carnationmilk.ca

    Pumpkin Pie

    Carnation Classic Pumpkin Pie

    Makes: 8 servings

    Ingredients:

    • 1 can (354 mL) Carnation regular or 2% evaporated milk

    • 1 pastry for 10-inch (25 cm) single-crust pie

    • 1 3/4 cups (425 mL) pumpkin pureé

    • 1 cup (250 mL) packed brown sugar

    • 2 eggs

    • 2 tbsp (30 mL) Robin Hood original all-purpose flour

    • 1 tsp (5 mL) cinnamon

    • 1/2 tsp (2mL) ground ginger

    • 1/2 tsp (2mL) ground nutmeg

    • 1/4 (1 mL) ground cloves

    • 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt

    Directions:

    1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). On floured surface, roll out pastry to 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness.

    2. Fit pastry into 10-inch (25 cm) pie plate; press into bottom and up sides of plate. Trim overhang and flute edges.

    3. Whisk together pumpkin purée, sugar, eggs, flour, spices, and salt in large bowl until smooth and well combined; gradually whisk in evaporated milk. Fill pie shell with evaporated milk mixture. Bake in bottom third of oven for 60 to 70 minutes or until set. Let cool completely on rack.

    Tip: Pies can be covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated up to 3 days or frozen up to 1 month.

    Junk food

    Are you like me and crave sugary treats? I grew up with my grand parents. My great grand parents lived next door. I definitely was spoiled. You can curb those cravings.

    Knowing why and when your cravings occur can help you prepare to deal with them. Whether you are changing your environment to experience them less often or are developing ways to respond differently, it is possible to overcome most junk food desires. Here are a few ways to set yourself up for success:

    1. Get enough sleep Getting enough sleep is very important. When you are tired or bored you tend to reach for a snack to keep you entertained or to satisfy you. If you are well rested you are more likely to make a better decision.

    2. Plan Your Meals and Prep them. Prepping your meals in advance can keep you from reaching for bad foods. Having meals every 2-3 hours also ensures you never go too long without eating and never leaves you in a pinch grabbing something quickly from a store.

    3. Don't Keep Junk In The House. First identify the foods you are reaching for when you are snacking. Then make sure to rid your house of them. You don't need to keep them around if you can't control yourself. You are more likely to reach for a healthier alternative if they aren't in your house.

    4. Drink Water. Often times we confuse hunger with dehydration. Next time you feel snacky, grab some water and chug it down. This may fill you up and you may have just been thirsty and not hungry for a snack.

    5. Stay Accountable. Put a dollar into a jar every time you crave something but don't give into the craving. At the end of the week, month etc cash it in and do something nice for yourself like a movie or some shopping!

    You got this! Be strong young grasshopper! Don't give in to the cravings.

    Foolproof Ways To Boost Your Motivation To Get Physically Fit

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    It could be the case that you have access to a safe place to run or cycle or can even afford a gym membership. You also have the time to work out, even if it is on the evenings or on weekends. You even have a drawer of the right clothes and sneakers. But what you lack is motivation.

     

    So, how can you boost your motivation levels, in order to get physically fit? Let’s take a look at a handful of foolproof ways….

     

    Great Music

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    Hearing is one of our most valuable senses, and it allows us to hear and enjoy a whole universe of wonderful music. Well, science has proven time and time again that music with certain qualities can be great at helping with motivation. After all, there has to be a reason why so many gyms pump out loud dance music in their fitness halls! And spin classes have the music on so loud that the leader needs a microphone or loudhailer to be heard! Usain Bolt was just one pro-athlete seen at the Rio Olympics warming up with his headphones in! Follow in his footsteps by using music to motivate you! Make a playlist the length of your workout, and aim to get right through to the end of the last track. If you lift weights, for example, music also acts a great distraction to help you push through the pain. feelingfit.info lists some great workout songs to add to your playlist!

     

    Consider Supplements

    If you lack motivation for fitness within yourself, it could well be linked to your testosterone levels. Many parallels have been drawn between motivation and testosterone by sports scientists and researchers. If you think that boosting your levels of testosterone will help you- as it likely will- be sure you do ample research first. If you want to supplement your levels, it is so crucial that you are well-informed. Being so means that you can give yourself this boost safely. Take a look at information sites HealthandFitnessVitality.com like and take in the insights there.

     

    Water Intake

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    It’s as simple as this; if you are dehydrated, you simply can’t feel as energized and motivated as you could if you were properly hydrated. If, an hour before the end of work you simply can’t be bothered to go to the gym afterward? Down a couple of pints of water! You’re sure to feel much better afterward. That’s because water is directly linked to things like how awake and alert we feel. familydoctor.org explains more about the importance of good hydration.

     

    Breath!!

    This might sound like the most obvious point in the world. But actually, it is incredibly common for people to hold their breath when exercising, or pushing themselves further. However, if you are not breathing properly, you won’t maintain the energy you need to keep going. As a result, you simply won’t be motivated to do as many reps, or miles, or strokes. Remembering to breathe- and to breath correctly- isn’t something you can learn in a second. It takes time to build up the skill, and then to do it naturally, resisting the urge to hold your breath. Try saying it to yourself in your head for your exercise routines for the next few weeks. After a while, you’ll stop holding your breath and breath properly all the way through your routine. greatist.com is a guide to breathing correctly for all types of exercise.

     

    Zespri Green and SunGold

    I had the chance to sit down with nutritionist Jessica Tong. The registered dietitian that works with Zespri Kiwifruit. At the time I was very inspired by the Olympics so a lot of my questions have to do with training nutrition. I hope you all can take away a bit of new knowledge about how great Kiwifruit is from the questions that I asked her.

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    1. If I am planning a tough training day when is the best time to have my fruit like a kiwi?

    The best time to have kiwifruit is prior to a tough workout. Packed with potassium, vitamin C, vitamin E, antioxidants, and natural sugars, Zespri SunGolds are a nutrient-dense snack of choice to fuel your body, optimize immune function, and ensure proper muscle function during your workout.

    1. What major nutrients are in a kiwi that will contribute to my health?

    Zespri SunGold kiwifruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. They contain 2 times more vitamin C than oranges, which is important for immune function and the growth and repair of bones and tissues. Zespri SunGolds are also a good source of vitamin E, a natural antioxidant. Potassium is crucial for heart function and plays a key role in muscle contraction. One serving of Zespri SunGolds provides as much potassium as a medium banana. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium are all essential micronutrients that are especially important when you are training.

    1. What is a good go-to recipe for kiwis?

    Zespri SunGold kiwifruits can be blended into shakes for a juicy, tropical taste. Or, they can be cut up into smoothie bowls or yogurt. This Sunrise Smoothie Bowl is an excellent recipe rich in fibre, heart-healthy fats, and protein that can be enjoyed for breakfast, snack, or dessert! http://www.zesprikiwi.com/kiwifruit-recipes/breakfast-recipes/sunrise-smoothie-bowl/

    1. Are kiwis high in sugar? What is the glycemic rating?

    Kiwifruits are relatively low in sugar, especially Zespri SunGold Kiwifruits. They are low on the glycemic index (Zespri Green: 39, Zespri SunGold 38) and are appropriate for people with diabetes or impaired blood sugar control.

    1. How many kiwis are one serving size?

    One serving of Zespri SunGold is 162 g or 2 kiwifruits.

    1. How much more vitamin C does a Kiwi have than an orange?

    Based on 100 g, Zespri SunGolds contain 2 times more vitamin C than oranges.

    1. What is the PH balance of a kiwi and how can it help my athletic performance?

    Acid-base balance, or pH balance, affects the body’s metabolic process. It is important that blood pH stays within the range of 7.35 and 7.45, which is on the basic/alkaline side. When blood pH levels become too acidic, an environment is created for bacteria or viruses to enter and to thrive, leading to illness, aches, and lack of energy. This can worsen muscle soreness, create a feeling of fatigue, and compromise athletic performance.

    Depending on its ripeness, the pH value of a kiwifruit varies between 3.1 and 3.96, classifying it as a “high-acid” food. However, while kiwis are naturally acidic, they become alkaline after digestion, promoting alkaline balance. Also, kiwifruits are not acid-forming. When acid-forming food is consumed, such as artificial sweeteners, meat, and alcohol, all of which are common in the North American diet, it produces toxins that impact the pH balance of the body and makes the blood more acidic.

    1. We know that fibre is important and especially with muscle. How much fibre does a kiwi have and how does it help my fitness goals?

    1 serving (2 kiwifruits) contain 4 g of fibre. Fibre is slow to digest so it keeps you fuller for longer. This is crucial if you are trying to control calories. Fibre also prevents a blood sugar spike as it causes glucose (sugar) to enter your bloodstream in a slow, controlled manner. This helps to stabilize energy levels and prevent a “sugar crash”. Fibre is also important to promote digestive health and regularity.

    1. Is there anything else you would like to share? Where can we find more information about you?

    Kiwifruit is considered a superfood/superfruit. It is a versatile fruit that is nutritionally superior to apples, oranges, and bananas.

    Please feel free to reach Jessica via www.jessicatongrd.com and to learn more about Zespri check out there website HERE.

     

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    Building A Healthy Child - Book Review

    Many parents feed their children as if they are adults. The truth is, however, that organs and body systems mature at different times, which means nutrition needs at different ages vary.

    In her new book, “Building a Healthy Child,” naturopathic doctor Melina Roberts outlines a revolutionary nutritional program that aims to change the way parents introduce foods to their children -- significantly improving the health of the future generation.

    “If we introduce foods based on these key concepts, we can avoid common childhood illnesses like allergies, eczema and asthma, and also form the foundation of long-term health,” Roberts said.

    I was lucky enough to receive a copy of her book. Although I do not have children I have many clients who do so I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to learn and be able to give better advice to my parenting clients. Most parents want whats best for their children and there are a lot of misconceptions out there. This book is great for learning that up and I would recommend it to any mom or dad out there looking to raise a healthy baby.

    She covers a wide variety of topics including: First foods, problem foods, solid food introduction, supplements, remedies, liver and toxins and even includes healthy recipes for different ages. So grab a copy and get reading so that you can have a healthy baby!

    Melina Roberts, N.D., is a naturopathic doctor and founder of Advanced Naturopathic Medical Centre in Calgary, Canada. She is a graduate of University of Waterloo and the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, and is a leading authority in the field of naturopathic medicine. She currently resides in Calgary with her husband and daughter. For more information, visit http://advancednaturopathic.com.