The Importance of Nitric Oxide

I'm not talking about Nitrous Oxide or "laughing gas".

Nitric Oxide is a small molecule which is produced by every cell in our body and helps keeps blood vessels healthy and regulates blood pressure.  It also helps in the immune and nervous systems and lessens diseases such as chronic inflammation, cancer, etc.  Nitric oxide is released from the inner layers of cells (endothelium) of our blood vessels. By relaxing the vessels it  keeps them flexible, allowing them to dilate, which boosts blood flow and controls blood pressure.  As we age, our cells produce less nitric oxide, which contributes to higher risk of chronic diseases.  That's why it is important to consume foods high in nitrates.  Recent lab research has shown that nitric oxide is involved in the respiratory system by helping red blood cells to release the oxygen they carry to the body's tissues.  Because it increases blood flow, it delivers more oxygen to our muscles for increased stamina, improving work production, etc.

Here are some foods to boost Nitric Oxide;
*Arugula, This bitter, peppery green is the highest source of nitrates known!
*Beets, beetroots are loaded with nitrates.
*Spinach, want to be strong like Popeye? eat yours fresh!
*Citrus, containing high amounts of Vitamin C, they protect your nitric oxide molecules from free radicals.
*Pomegranate, the polyphenols boost nitric oxide and as a anti-inflammatory it reduces oxidative stress.
*Walnuts, being high in Vitamin E they keep the blood flowing.
*Watermelon,  loaded with the amino acid L-citrulline,  which is ultimately converted into nitric oxide.  The rind is where you find the most amount of l-citrulline.

This is a great video from Dr. Michael Greger on creating your own "V8" juice smoothie for a daily way to boost your nitric oxide production. See: Dr. Greger In The Kitchen

Have a great week.
Be kind.
Judd

What The Heck is Tempeh?

That is the question I get asked most every time I am eating a meal that includes Tempeh.  Most everyone has heard of tofu but not so much of tempeh.  It's only after they sample a bite or two when they say "that's pretty good".  Like tofu, tempeh takes on the flavor of the spices you use when preparing it.  Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that originated in Indonesia.  It is made by a natural culturing and controlled fermentation process that includes a tempeh "starter" which is a mix of live mold.  The same way kombucha, Kimchi or Sauerkraut is fermented.

Tempeh Benefits:

*Rich in probiotics.

*Lowers cholesterol.

*High in protein.

*High in calcium for bone strength. 

*Balances blood sugar.

*Reduces menopause symptoms.

Tempeh is a good source of protein, iron, magnesium, manganese and calcium.  It is also low in carbs and sodium. Being rich in probiotics helps in a strong gut health.  Tempeh can be eaten right from the package, but is a lot more tasty when prepared with that right spices.  Search the blog for recipes using tempeh.  This is one of my favorites: Tempeh Reuben Sandwich or here's an easy quick one.

Tempeh "Chikin" Salad

1 package of organic tempeh.

1 stalk organic celery minced.

1 diced dill pickle.

1/4 cup diced onions.

1 tbs parsley.

1/2 cup vegan mayo.

1 tbs yellow mustard.

1 ts lemon juice.

Salt and pepper.

Cube the tempeh and place in salted boiling water.  Simmer for 10-12 minutes, drain and let cool.

Combine all other ingredients in mixing bowl.  Add cooled tempeh cubes and fold together.

Serve with lettuce, tomatoes on a wrap, pita or by itself.

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd

Love Has No Labels

This week's post is a little different than usual.  There are a lot of crazy things going on in the world.  People need to put their differences aside and come together.   Bob Marley's "One Love"says it all:

One Love! What about the one heart? One Heart!  What about? Let's get together and feel all right, as it was in the beginning. One Love So shall it be in the end. One Heart. All right Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right.  Let's get together and feel all right.

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd

What Exactly is CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol, commonly called CBD oil, is helping to relieve many common ailments. The FDA just approved a form of cannabidiol called Epidiolex for childhood epilepsy, transforming the way the medical industry is looking at this natural alternative.  CBD oil helps with ailments such as anxiety, pain, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.  Cannabidiol is a cannabinoid compound that is found in both hemp and marijuana.  The main difference is the level of THC.  THC is the most well-known cannabinoid and is associated with the "high" you get from marijuana.  CBD is derived from the hemp plant has a very low to zero amount of THC and is non-psychoactive, and is legal in all 50 states.

While there are many different positive health benefits of CBD oil, the center of its amazing abilities seems to be it is a very effective natural anti-inflammatory.  Chronic inflammation is the common thread between most of all chronic health problems we face today as a modern society.  Cancer, heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, digestive issues and hormonal problems are all inflammatory in nature.  Research is showing that anxiety, depression, brain fog, ADD, ADHD and autism are influenced by inflammation.  CBD oil has been shown to calm anxiety naturally without the potential side effects of pharmaceutical anti-anxiety medications.   

Here are a few of the many benefits of CBD:

I lead a very active life working outdoors in extreme weather conditions, both hot and cold.  At the end of the day it takes a while for my body and mind to wind down; therefore at bedtime and throughout the night my muscles twitch, which in turn keeps Kris awake and does not promote a restful sleep for neither one of us.  I began taking CBD oil on Tuesday July 3rd and I have not twitched since!  I wake up rested and with a clear mind. 

After doing some research on this incredible natural alternative, Kris and I are now associates with Hempworx and can now offer you these CBD oil products for both you and your pets.

For more information and product lineup please see our website: www.kristenlee.hempworx.com.  You can also reach out to us via email at kristenleehempworx@gmail.com.  We are excited to be able to share such a great natural alternative for a healthy lifestyle.

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd

Recommended Reading 07/01/18

It is Recommended Reading time!

As we spend more time outside now it is very important to protect our largest organ: Our skin.

Contrary to belief, "most" sunscreens are not really that good for us: The Truth About Cancer.

Here's How To Protect Your Skin This Summer The Green Way

With the high cost and/or  lack of of healthcare it is crucial we do anything possible that can helps us live a healthier lifestyle. In this article from Natural News: Meditation, Yoga and Prayer can reduce your healthcare services by 43%.

We all know when changing to a plant-based diet cheese is the hardest food to give up! I did a post on dairy a few years back, see it here for more info.  This article by on OneGreenPlanet shows how the dairy industry is changing their views on plant-based milks: Dairy-free yogurts.  And why does the United States let the Dairy Industry have so much power: Breaking The Dairy Addiction: Dr. Neal Barnard/Rich Roll.  Because of the growing interests in plant-based milks, the dairy industry has a surplus of unsold milk.  So they make cheese out it, and now have  1.39 Billion Pounds of surplus cheese.  Maybe stop producing so much milk and reduce some greenhouse gases?  You can always make your own delicious plant-based, dairy-free cheeses.

Eating healthy is too expensive! I hear that a lot, but it really isn't.  Here are two articles on Eating On a Budget  Eating Plant-based on $50 a Week.  Check out this video from 22 Days Nutrition on eating healthy.  

For a great 4th of July recipe try this  from Chef Chloe:

Chili Lime Street Corn

1 tb vegetable oil

1 lb frozen organic corn or fresh

1 jalapeno seeded and minced

1 ts sea salt

2 tsp fresh lime juice

1 tsp agave nectar

 1 tb vegan butter

Sriracha Mayo

1 cup vegan mayo

2 tb ketchup

2 tb agave

2 tb sriracha

1 ts salt

combine all ingredients until smooth

In a large skillet heat oil over med-high heat, add corn, jalapeno and salt.

Stirring for 8 to 10 minutes until corn is nicely charred.

Stir in lime juice, agave and butter. 

 Serve in small bowls or cups.

Top with Sriracha mayo, smoked paprika and pepper.

There are 4200 religions in the world. And while the details vary, the big themes remain the same. Be kind. Help others. Do good...  Joe De Sena

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd