Tricks for a Healthy Halloween

Hallowe'en is full of fun but also the  not-good-choice sugar season. But like anything, there are opportunities to make event his daunting haunting season one full of healthy choices. Here are a is a couple of healthy tricks for the haunting season:

1. Full up the kids with healthy food & protein before TorT'ing.
2. Examine all treats for choking hazards & tampering.
3. Explain to children what sugar load does to them - it's a chance to educate!
4. Eat a teaspoon of Chia to counter sugar load - balances by 40%

5. Have one treat a day - that's why it is called a treat!
6. Have kids rate candy for nutritional value or NOT and group them for best choice to worst (think about additives, MSG, coloring)
7. Eat an equal amount of fruit to candy.
8. Think about donating candy to encourage 'out-of-me' focus.
9. Make treats at home full of healthy fats (coconut oil) and healthy sugars (Coconut Sugar)
10. Walk or run the block tonight - rain or shine it's an opportunity to exercise.

Happy Hallowe'en - have FUN!

Lead a Long, Super-Life with SUPERFOOD!

The best way to promote longevity and lead a long, happy, and healthy life is simple - It starts with a good balance of good-for-you foods and a moderate daily exercise to reach a healthy lifestyle. Raw, unrefined and minimally processed foods are the best kinds of foods to eat as they jam in plenty of heart healthy and longevity increasing goodies. Make a start by cutting out foods that contain unhealthy substances as bad cholesterol, added bad sugars, trans fats and saturated fats. Its really as easy as swapping out that unhealthy, bleached and highly processed flour for a more nutrient dense flour such as oat or coconut flour that’s super high in nutrients and fiber in your yummy baked goods instead… your kids won’t know the difference! Superfoods, are becoming more and more popular, and for great reason too! Superfoods are nutritionally dense foods that are high in fiber, are minimally processed, unrefined and have shown to have many health benefits. Lets have a look at a number of superfoods that can be easily found today and after plenty of research, have been shown to be beneficial to our bodies in many ways, including promoting longevity on both the inside and out:

Brilliant berries:

Berries are famous for their large antioxidant content which is vital in assisting our bodies in fighting off harmful free radicals, and also to protect our cells from any damage, whether it be from the environment around us, or the type of lifestyle we may lead in todays busy world. Goji berries contain a whopping 500x more of the free radical fighting antioxidant Vitamin C alone, compared to that of an orange along with an abundance of other important antioxidants and healthy nutrients needed for a long healthy life. They have been called the longevity fruit and for good reason too! They are very rich in carotenoids such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin which helps to protect our eyes retinas by absorbing blue light and acts as an important antioxidant that prevents cell damage in the eyes which could in turn lead to development of age related macular degeneration which is the leading cause of vision impairment in people over the age of 65[i]. Free radicals cause gradual cell damage that responsible for visible aging and can also boost development of some genetic and age related diseases such as cancer or dementia. Goji berries also contain a large amount of polysaccharides which causes the body to produce more human growth hormone (HGH) from the pituitary gland which can help slow down the aging process. Goji Berries are very beneficial in cardiovascular health and our circulatory system, due to their super cholesterol lowering properties, which helps to keep your heart in tip-top shape and your blood balanced - two very important aspects of a healthy human body.

Radically raw plant foods:

Raw fruits, vegetables and seeds such as hemp and chia are all part of a balanced diet with their large, naturally occurring amount of nutrients and minerals. They contain fabulous anti-cancer phytochemicals (naturally occurring plant chemicals), which provide stress damage resistance to the cells in our body and therefore help to prevent development of aging, and certain stress or age related diseases[ii]. Essential fatty acids and high antioxidant levels found in seeds such as hemp and chia, help to boost cardiovascular health by lowering bad (LDL) cholesterol levels, maintaining the health of your skin, hair and nails and therefore protecting them from signs of aging, helping to boost visual acuity, decrease the risk of developing Dementia and Alzheimers disease, along with protecting the brain from aging effects, helping to maintain alertness and mental health. Raw plant foods also contain anti-inflammatory properties, which have been associated in helping to reduce inflammation in related health issues such as arthritis, which can provide some comfort and relief to associated pain to those certain affected areas.

Great grains:

A unique polyphenol called Avenathramides can be found in oats and has the ability to keep the arteries clear and free of any plaque build up. This same compound lowers the pro-inflammatory cytokines that can cause inflammation in the body, that is associated with certain health issues such as Parkinsons disease, Alzhiemers and cancer. Beta-glucan is another substance found in oats, which help to boost our immune system, which is very beneficial in the elderly to keep their resistance strong to certain diseases and illness.[iii] Quinoa is another ancient grain jam-packed with longevity loving goodness. It contains high levels of magnesium, which help to relax your muscles and blood vessels that affects blood pressure and is crucial for cardiovascular health. Manganese and Copper act as antioxidants in your body to get rid of disease causing substances which may be effective in treating conditions artherosclerosis, breast cancer, diabetes and insulin resistance helping to prolong a long, healthy life.

RAWsome Cacao (raw chocolate):

Unlike commercially processed and refined chocolate bars, antioxidants are preserved in raw cacao and score a huge 62,000 on the ORAC scale. By keeping cacao in its raw state, it results in a much higher level antioxidants that are not lost during intense processing methods that can dissolve plaque built up on artery walls, keeping them clear and are therefore less likely to negatively affect your hearts health. Raw cacao, being one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants has twice as much as red wine and three times the amount of green tea! These antioxidants, along with anandamides (neurotransmitters) help to increase cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel dilation, blood pressure and also lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels which are all essential in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, one of the leading causes of death in North America. A feel good stress defense shield called serotonin helps us to have a good nights sleep and also protects us from stress related diseases as we age. In addition to all of these essential disease fighting substances, there are phytochemicals found in cacao that reveal it may be the most chemically complex food on earth when consumed in raw form and in every human diet to promote well-being and longevity[iv].

For more information on how to use these delicious, long-life superfoods, visit www.mumsoriginal.com for some fantastic recipe ideas!

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[i] http://www.mdsupport.org/library/zeaxanthin.html

[ii] http://www.lef.org/news/LefDailyNews.htm?NewsID=4773&Section=NUTRITION

[iii] http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/eating-longevity

[iv] http://www.ajcn.org/content/77/6/1466.short

Sugar Chart - Everything You Need to Know About Sugar!

Everyone loves to "eat sweet" at least once in a while. But what are the best sweet choices for you and your family? Here at Mum's Original, we know how important it is for you to know where your food comes from, and want to provide you with the best food possible that you can benefit from by putting into your body. We’ve made it easy for you with our super sugar chart. Here you can find and compare all different kinds of sugars, from the naturally occurring super-healthy all the way to the artificially processed chemical kind.

By simply changing your sweetener of choice in your morning coffee to a healthier, more nutrient rich option, you could benefit your health in ways you never knew you could. Take a look at our sugar chart, we’ve done the research for you and we’re sure you will be just as surprised as we were. We have also provided you with our ‘Best, Better, Bad’ simple shopping list so you can still enjoy a little sweetness in a healthy, nutrient rich way. Keep it handy – it will help you to easily ensure that you pick the best sugar options for your family’s health, right off that grocery store shelf! After all, you are what you eat!

CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR SUGAR CHART!!!

Help beat heart disease with these top heart-healthy superfoods

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD),  are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels.  Heart attacks and strokes are the most common form of CVD which are basically blockages that prevent blood from flowing to the heart or brain.  CVD is the leading cause of death in North America and especially those with diabetes.  This prevalent disease  kills more North Americans each year than all of the different forms of cancer put together. [1] Along with a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise, no smoking, blood pressure checks, and maintaining a healthy weight - you can help beat CVD by using one useful weapon….superfoods.

Powerful antioxidants found in a variety of superfoods help to fight off harmful free radicals which also contribute to a heart disease and a whole number of health issues such as diabetes. In addition, a diet that includes superfoods containing high fiber, Essential Fatty Acids and anti-inflammatory properties all work to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, chronic inflammation and blood clotting in the human body which are other nasty contributors to CVD and diabetes.[2]

You can easily decrease your risks of developing CVD and diabetes by using these top delicious superfoods daily and help to maintain a healthy heart:

Wheat Free Oats

• High in fiber, folate and essential fatty acids.
• Helps keep arteries clear and levels of bad cholesterol down.
• Keeps you feeling full for longer, reducing cravings for unhealthy, sugary snacks.
• Consuming low glycemic Oats/Oat products can help reduce your risk for developing diabetes which is a risk factor for heart disease.
• Opt for nutrient dense, high fiber quick flake or steele cut oats for maximum benefits as opposed to instant options -  they contain bad for your body sugars that your body doesn’t need.
• Reach for Oat Flour instead of White Flour to increase fiber content in baking and cooking.

Raw Cacao

• Blood thinning effect helping to avoid blood clots and reduce stress on heart.
• Reduces inflammation in the body.
• Contains oleic acid, a heart healthy monounsaturated fat that can help to reduce blood pressure.
• One of the richest natural sources of antioxidants (a staggering 98,00 ORAC score for raw cacao powder), higher than red wine and green tea. These antioxidants help improve blood vessel dilation and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
• 1 to 2% of cacao is Theobromine (an anti-bacterial) which helps to dilate blood vessels resulting in the heart not having to pump as hard.
• An excellent source of magnesium which relaxes blood vessels.
• Ensure 2 Tablespoons a day of raw cacao nibs or raw coconut cacao nibs for benefits, and ensure that raw cacao powder is used instead of the over processed and nutrient deficient Dutch or processed cocoa powder.

Quinoa

• Good source of magnesium – a mineral that helps relax blood vessels.
• Works as a prebiotic, providing the body with healthy bacteria to help fight off damaging free radicals.
• Help to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and blood sugar.
• Long term studies indicate that 6 servings of whole grains per week can help slow the progression of atherosclerosis (plaque that narrows blood vessels) and stenosis (narrowing of the diameter of arterial passageways).[3]
• Swap out your gluten rich pastas and high starch white rice dishes for nutrient rich quinoa ones.

Goji Berries

• Reduces LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increases HDL (good) cholesterol.
• Contain cyperone (an active ingredient), a sesquiterpene that benefits the heart and blood pressure.
• Anthocyanins (the red flavonoid pigment in Goji berries) help to maintain the strength and integrity of coronary arteries.
• Rich source of four polysaccharides can help to reduce blood pressure.
• Can neutralize free radical superoxide by up to 40%.[4]
• Use gojis instead of high sugar low nutrient dried fruits like raisins or apricots. A handful a day keeps CVD away!

White Chia

• Reduces blood sugar swings by up to 40% as it slows down the conversion of carbohydrates to simple sugars – beneficial for diabetics and therefore reducing risk of heart disease.
• Helps to thin blood up to 22% so your heart doesn’t have to pump as hard without affecting coagulation.
• Extremely high Essential Fatty Acid content (3:1 - Omega 3:Omega 6) which supports our cardiovascular system.
• 2-4 Tablespoons of chia a day will have huge heart effects. Simply sprinkle on foods that you use!

Coconut

• A natural anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-microbial which help to eliminate bacterial/viral lesions on artery walls.
• Can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce insulin levels.
• Regulates blood cholesterol levels as well as triglycerides to help with heart disease prevention.
• Coconut sugar is a low glycemic natural sweetener that will decrease body's insulin levels and keep liver-fat-forming-fructose to a minimum!
• Extremely high fiber in Coconut Flour to help reduce bad LDL and increase the healthy HDL.
• Prevents oxidization of cholesterol, one of the main causes of atherosclerosis.
• Swap out bad flour choices for coconut flour. Use coconut oil in lieu of canola or olive oil when frying and opt for coconut sugar for baking and daily use as a sweetener. Your heart will thank you.

Banana

• Contains oleic acid, a heart healthy monounsaturated fat that can reduce blood pressure.
• High in fiber which helps control blood sugar levels by slowing down the release of sugars from the digestive tract, therefore reducing your risk of heart disease later in life.
• Soluble fiber content helps lower cholesterol levels by promoting the excretion of bile to excrete bad cholesterol from the body.
• Eat a banana a day, or more simply use 1-2  Tablespoons of banana powder in smoothies,  add to  dips, use in salad dressing and in baked goodies.

Visit us at www.mumsoriginal.com to find out more about these amazing super healing superfoods and how to use them with our fabulous recipes!!

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[1] http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/lcod.htm

[2] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16407732

[3] http://www.ahjonline.com/article/S0002-8703(04)00507-1/abstract

[4] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=chinese%20study%20on%20goji%20and%20SOD

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Garbage In, Garbage Out

Ever heard of that familiar saying, you are what you eat? Its true. That’s because your body’s daily performance is run on fuel that we get from our daily diet. Ever find yourself in too much of a hurry to prepare a wholesome lunch for your break at work that you opt to go through a drive through for fast food instead? These unhealthy eating habits all contribute to your short and long term health.

The bad vs the good

If you are fueling your body with bad poor quality foods, don’t expect to get any more than that out of your daily performance. The foods you eat effect the way you think, function, feel and look, effecting your general health and wellbeing.

On the other hand, by eating a healthy balanced diet with good wholesome foods will help you function at your best. Healthy food and lifestyle provide the necessary vitamins and minerals needed for certain bodily functions. The body needs vitamins A, D, E, K, C and the B vitamins along with minerals and essential fatty acids to stay healthy. By starting a healthy diet now, you could save yourself from certain health risks in your future such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Grab some vitamin A along with essential fatty acids to keep your eyes, skin and hair in top notch shape from foods such as mangoes, hemp, chia and spinach. Vitamin C can be found in any citrus fruits, tomatoes and bell peppers. Our brain requires vitamin B6 and essential fatty acids in order to keep our body running smoothly and efficiently, and this can be found in foods such as hemp and bananas. [1]

So how do you ensure your cutting out the ‘bad stuff’ completely? Basically, by avoiding anything processed. Foods that contain saturated fats, trans fats and bad cholesterol such as store bought fatty cheeses, ice cream, cookies, chips and donuts. If theres nothing wholesome about it and you cant pronounce half the ingredients on the packaging… Do you think its going to do anything good for your body? No – your body cant pronounce them either. Opt for wholesome, superfoods to get the most out of your diet.

Ways to get to a better you

• Cut out any fake, processed, or fast foods
• Eat healthy from a young age – this will aid in prevention of health risks later in life
• Don’t cut out your fats completely – just replace your fat intake with healthy good fats instead.. your essential fatty acids (abundantly found in hemp and chia). These will help in brain development in children and adults keeping you sharp and will improve conditions of your skin, hair and nails, keeping them strong and beautiful on the outside, as well as the inside
• Opt for foods high in protein such as beans, hemp hearts, chia, quinoa which are also high in fibre, pushing those bad toxins our of your body – for good
• Add foods high in antioxidants such as raw cacao, goji berries and blueberries to aid in cleansing your digestion system leading to a better, healthier YOU!

[1] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16770950

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