The World Of Vegan Protein Sources

In today's world, Vegan is getting to be a very popular word. We hear more and more people around us using it, and turning into vegans. This surprises a lot of people, since the vegan lifestyle is very restrictive, and many vegans struggle to get the right amount of protein. With the limited vegan protein sources out there, are vegans able to get all of the nutrients required for a healthy diet?

Vegans are people who do not eat meat, or any other animal byproducts. This includes eggs and dairy. While it can be very difficult, it is possible for vegans to get enough protein in their diet. They just need to find the right combination of foods. The problem is that most sources of vegan protein are not complete proteins. The body requires a variety of amino acids to function properly, and that means that you need to be consuming complete proteins. The opinions out there are mixed, but most nutritionists today are saying that it is OK to get the various amino acids from a variety of sources, spread throughout the day. It is ideal to get them all together, but as long as you are getting them, your body will get what it needs. This is why it is very important to make the right food choices, especially if you have the restrictive diet of a vegan. Some good amounts of protein can be found in certain fruits and vegetables. Be sure that you are consuming a variety of green vegetables, beans, lentils, grains and nuts.

Here are 3 of the most popular foods that are a great vegan protein source, as well as delicious.

1. Beans and Lentils: These foods are an excellent source of vegan protein. Black beans, kidney beans, chick peas, vegetarian chili and lentils can give you grams of protein when eaten in the right amounts. A cup of kidney beans would approximately contain 13 grams of protein.

2. Grains: Whole grains are packed with protein. Many vegans go with brown rice, barley, oats or even whole grain breads, but the one that tops it is quinoa. Quinoa is a complete protein, and if included in ones diet makes an excellent vegan protein source. A cup of cooked Quinoa may contain around 18 grams of protein.

3. Soy products: Soy can be consumed in various different ways including, soy milk, soy nuts, soy ice-cream, soy yogurt, soy cheese and the list can go on. Tofu is easily available in grocery stores, is very inexpensive, and is a valuable vegan protein source. Tofu can be eaten just the way it is or incorporated with any seasoning to make a delicious healthy meal. It also contains calcium and iron. Half a cup of tofu might have up to 10 grams of protein and a whole cup of soy milk contains 7 grams.

Even with the various sources of vegan protein out there, many vegans really struggle to create a truly healthy diet. While there are many different vegan protein sources out there, most of them do not provide you with the complete proteins that you need for your body to work it's best.

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Plant Based Diet

Get Health with a Plant Based Diet

What if one simple change could put you on a path to better health? And what if that change could even save you from obesity, heart disease and cancer? You have the power to transform your life by maintaining a plant based diet - no ifs about it.

While many omnivores feel that a meal without meat just doesn't feel like a meal, the vegan and vegetarian plant based lifestyle is growing in popularity just the same - and with good reason. A plant based diet moves away from animal-based foods like meat, eggs and milk, and incorporates more fruit, vegetables, legumes and grains. The less meat and dairy you eat the less fat you take in. This goes a long way when it comes to maintaining healthy weight and cholesterol levels.

If you're wondering whether you should try out a plant based diet, consider the top five benefits listed below. Keep in mind that you don't have to jump into a full-on vegan diet or vegetarian diet. Just limiting your intake of meat, poultry and dairy, and increasing vegetables, fruit and grains can do wonders for your health.

Top Five Benefits of a Plant Based Diet

1. Lower Cholesterol

Going green can dramatically lower the amount of LDL cholesterol in your blood - the bad kind that can lead to heart disease and stroke. Avoid butter, cut out fatty meats and opt for plant-based foods. Dairy and animal products are loaded with fat and have no fiber. Plant based foods contain no cholesterol whatsoever. That means vegan nutrition is much better for your heart and your health. It's even been proven by a recent study out of St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, which found that a low-fat plant based diet can lower LDL cholesterol by 28 percent.

2. Lower Blood Pressure

When you eat fatty meats and dairy products, the viscosity of your blood increases, placing more pressure on the blood vessels. A plant based diet fills you up with veggies and fruit, which are high in potassium. Higher intake of potassium modulates blood viscosity. This is why vegetarians and vegans tend to have lower rates of hypertension, "the silent killer," according to observational studies published in the Nutrition Review.

3. Prevent Cancer

High-fat diets have been linked to higher rates of cancer. In fact the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine's Cancer Project showed vegetarians to be 40 percent less likely to develop cancer than meat-eaters. Meat tends to be high in saturated fat and low in fiber. Fiber plays a key role in keeping your digestive system clean and healthy, removing cancer-causing compounds before they can create harm. A vegetarian diet and vegan diet are high in fiber, low in saturated and trans-fats and typically include more fruit, vegetables and other cancer-preventing phytochemicals.

4. Avoid Heart Disease

The American Heart Association says 83 million Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease, and many of the risk factors, such as obesity, are at all-time highs. But you reduce your risk. Research has found that a balanced, low-fat, plant based diet can help reduce cholesterol, contribute to weight loss and lower blood pressure. All of which lead to heart problems.

5. Maintain Healthy Weight & Fitness

Those who follow a plant based, vegan or vegetarian diet generally consume fewer calories and have lower body weights than those who don't, according to the Mayo Clinic. Still, a plant based diet doesn't guarantee weight loss. You'll want to keep your intake of sweets and fatty foods low, choose whole grains, eat a variety of fruit and vegetables, and choose fat-free and low-fat dairy products. Also remember that cooking method counts. Steam, boil, grill or roast instead of frying. Your new diet will even give you renewed energy for physical exercise.

How to Transition to a Plant Based Diet

Aside from simply avoiding meat, there are ways to ease the transition to a primarily plant based diet. Increase the amount of grains, fruits and vegetables on your plate gradually until the meat is the smallest portion of your meal. An online vegan delivery service can make the process simple.

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15 Fat Burning Foods - Eating Your Way To Natural Fat Loss

Quickly, can you name 15 fat burning foods in the next 30 seconds? How did you do? Well, there are a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that are hyped as foods that you can eat to help you to lose weight. They are also known as negative calorie foods and have what is known as a high 'thermogenic' value. In other words, they use more calories in the digestive process than what is actually contained within the food itself. This process speeds up your metabolism, which can lead to fat loss.

In actuality, it is not the food that burns the fat, but the nutrients in these foods that help in breaking down fatty deposits and make it easier for your body to help flush out the fat. Also, when your body is properly nourished it has a positive affect on maintaining your blood sugar level. Regulating your blood sugar level has proven to be the most effective method to maintaining the body's fat-burning capacity by eliminating the feel of hunger.

Following are 15 fat burning foods known for accelerating fat loss; they are packed with nutritional value and can assist you in achieving your weight loss goal and improve your overall health in numerous ways:

Beans

Steep in fiber and an excellent source of protein as well as iron, a single serving of beans is very filling and can satisfy your appetite for hours. The great thing is that they come in many varieties including lima beans, black beans, kidney beans, navy beans, green beans, wax beans, northern beans, and garbanzo beans. They are great for helping to keep the blood sugar level balance.

Garlic

This staple has a worldwide reputation as a miracle food and comes in over 300 varieties; it contains vitamins A, C, and D. One of the most common is the American garlic; it has a white paper-like skin and a very strong flavor. Its many forms include whole peeled gloves, minced fresh cloves, dried garlic powder, garlic extract, garlic salt, and whole peeled gloves. Garlic contains the compound allicin which studies have shown can help lower cholesterol and high blood pressure; it is a natural diuretic food that aids the breakage of fat. It has been observed that allicin begins to degrade immediately after it is produced, so its medicinal effect decreases over time. Cooking degrades its even further and microwaving allicin, more likely than not, totally annihilates any health benefits.

To receive the optimal effect, crush a little raw garlic and combine with the cooked food shortly before serving. Be careful not to overdo it - too much can irritate or possibly damage the digestive tract. Keep in mind that raw, crushed garlic yields not only the most powerful flavor but, as an entry on the 15 fat burning foods list, it is an extremely effective ingredient to have as a part of your health and fitness arsenal.

Carrots

This vegetable contains high levels of carotene, which is transform into Vitamin A. Carotene stimulates the metabolic rate of the body and speeds the elimination of fat deposits and waste. In addition, research has shown that this compound may be of significant benefit for maintaining blood sugar level and possesses antioxidant properties that can reduce the rate of certain types of cancer as well as cardiovascular diseases.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Known as a simple home remedy for ailments ranging from sinus headaches to a sore toe, apple cider vinegar also has the natural ability to accelerate fat loss. Made from apples, it contains malic acid, which is an essential ingredient for converting sugars and fats into an energy source that fuels the bodily functions such as walking, running, breathing, and blood flow.
Apple cider vinegar also have high levels of potassium that has an antiseptic quality , which helps to eliminate stored fats. Pectin is another ingredient contained in the fresh apples from which the vinegar is made; it is a soluble fiber that binds to cholesterol globules and pulls them out of the body. It works 24 hours a day to help your body remove unwanted fat. This also helps remove unwanted heavy metals. Less fat and cholesterol in the body reduces the risk of just about any ailment!

Onions

Like its fellow vegetable in the 15 fat burning foods category - garlic, onions have minerals and oils that will help to promote fat loss by the breakdown of fat deposits and speeding up your metabolism. They also are rich in vitamin C and chromium. Chromium is a mineral that is promoted as a weight-loss supplement due to it's supposed ability to stabilize blood sugar levels and boost the body's fat-burning metabolism.

Tomatoes

Whether raw, steamed, fried, stewed, crushed, pureed, or reduced to a sauce, the tomatoes is one of the most frequently eaten "vegetables" in the United States. It has a high Vitamin C and Citric malic-oxalic acid content. The acid contains enzymes that will hasten the metabolic process. It also helps the kidneys to release more water, which filters out large amounts of fatty deposits. Because it is a "fatless" vegetable, many people employ tomatoes fat-loss diet for a brief period of time.

Celery

Raw celery has a high calcium content and when eaten the calcium is sent directly to work. This pure form of calcium will stimulate your endocrine system. The hormones in your body will break up the fat that is stored in the body. In addition, celery contains a high amount of iron and magnesium; these minerals are excellent for flushing out your system.

Cucumber

The high silicon and sulfur content in cucumbers works to stimulate the kidneys to filter out uric acid, which is a waste product formed from the metabolic breakdown of substances in food called purines. Once this uric acid is washed out, it speeds up the removal of fat, and loosens the fat from the cells.

Asparagus

A good vegetable source of vitamin E, and a natural treatment for rheumatism and arthritis, asparagus is also a natural diuretic that promotes the elimination of fluids in the body. This pick for 15 fat burning foods contains a chemical that accelerates metabolism by assisting in the breakdown of the oxalic acid that tends to bind fat to cells. Its affect in reducing fatty deposits into small bits makes it easier to expend them out of the body.

Beets

This is another powerful diuretic that supports the functions of the liver and kidneys. Beets wash out floating body fats; they are rich in a special iron that cleanses the corpuscles. Corpuscles are blood cells that can contain fat deposits.

Cabbage

Because of the cabbage ability to inhibit the transformation of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat it is of great value in the fat loss war. It contains the minerals iodine and sulfur, which cleanses the body of waste matter from the membranes of the stomach and intestines. If you have a pot belly or want to rid yourself of love handles, cabbage is a natural diuretic that will help to break up the excess fat stored in these areas.

Olive Oil

This item should be at the top of the 15 fat burning foods for everyone. Numerous studies have shown that the reasons for southern Europeans low rate of cardiovascular disease is their frequent use of olive oil as their primary source of dietary fat. By utilizing olive oil in the same way, you can reap the same health benefits. Extra-virgin olive oil (nuts, avocados, and canola oil) is made of monounsaturated fat and helps to lower the levels of the 'bad fat' ldl cholesterol and also the blood fats that are known as triglycerides.

The fats that you need to avoid, the saturated fats found mostly in animal foods and diary products, are what raise those levels. That is why it is recommended that you eat only lean meats and nonfat dairy products. The bottom line here is, olive oil, used in healthy amounts as a replacement for the "unhealthy fats," will enhance your fat loss program.

Apples

This is a food that is high in fiber and provides your body with volume; it prolongs digestion, which makes you feel full longer. Eating apples in place of junk foods, decrease the likelihood of you eating foods that are less filling and high in calories. This encourages stable blood-glucose levels. Because fat burning foods such as apples have fewer calories, they are popular in fat loss programs that involve calorie counting. The high water content of apples is another reason why apples are great for weight loss. The water within the apple is absorbed by the body and helps to keep blood-oxygenation levels high.

When this occurs, your body's metabolism is stimulated and burns glucose energy. A low blood-oxygenation level makes your body feel sluggish and the nutrients that you do eat cannot be effectively transported to the areas of the body where they are needed. So, why not add apples to your list, and the next time you feel the urge to have a snack, pick up one and start munching knowing that you are making a significant contribution to your fat loss efforts.

Oatmeal

There is a reason why professional bodybuilders have relied on oatmeal as a staple of their breakfast; it is very high in nutrients. It is an amazing source of cholesterol fighting, fat-soluble fiber that is filling and provides a good amount of energy to propel you through any workout. Avoid instant oatmeal and choose rolled or steel cut oats instead.

Lean Turkey

This is another favorite food of bodybuilders. Many studies have proven that the proteins contained in lean turkey boost the metabolism that promotes fat loss and helps to build up the lean muscle tissue that enables you to burn even more fat. (calories.) The reason lean meats stimulate metabolism and burns calories is because it uses more energy in the digestion process that other foods.

So there you have it, 15 fat burning foods that not only promote fat loss but contains vitamin and minerals that yield many other health related benefits as well. As with any changes in diet or fitness related activities, you should always consult with your health care practitioner first!

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Is it Too Late For a Summer Garden?

Summer is here and with it comes summer gardens. These summer gardens are not only a delight for the eye, but for the body too. Now is the time to put on the finishing touches. If you did not put out seeds then plants are still a viable option. There are many great plants available. Greenhouses and nurseries offer a wide variety.  

Even if you are a little late in the planting season you still have plenty of time for reaping. The later planting only means more watering for some plants and finding a shade for others. Consider what you are planting then go ahead and take a step out.
 
Herbs do well in well drained soil and lots of sunlight. Herbs include thyme, basil, oregano, tarragon, and mint. These will thrive well in small areas or containers and make a great addition to your recipes.

Tomatoes are available for just about every climate. Most tomatoes thrive in mild temperatures, but need lots of direct sunlight. Some tomatoes are more heat and drought resistant. Know your climate and plant accordingly.
 
There are so many peppers it would take pages just to name them. Peppers are also available in plants. I have found peppers are about the easiest plant to grow. They do well in direct sunlight and can withstand the afternoon sun. However, for me, the best produce is during the fall. Don't get me wrong, peppers produce all summer, but when fall comes. . .WOW can they put out!
 
Cucumbers are also a great garden plant. There are so many things to do with these delights. Eating them raw is just one option. If you are into canning they make great pickles. These can be canned without a lot of trouble. 

 
Peas and green beans come up from seed rather quickly and put on fruit almost as fast. If you have never tried fresh peas or green beans you have missed out. These little wonders can provide the body with much needed nutrition such as vitamin A and calcium. Fresh peas can provide one of the best colon cleanses available. For this reason eat fresh peas and beans with care. You may enjoy the moment, but despise the after effect.
 
If you live in a cooler region, you can plant lettuce. It is a cool weather plant and fresh lettuce is a real treat. If you have a green house with a shade, or an area with lots of shade you can still get by with planting lettuce even in the summer time. 

 
One of my favorite vegetables is okra. This plant tolerates heat well and is usually planted in May and ready to harvest around July. Okra provides many great vitamins, minerals, and is a source of protein and fiber as well. Okra is one that needs to be planted from seed. It does not transplant well. 

 
There are so many plants available for a great garden. Some I didn't mention include: squash, melons, and eggplant. Enjoy your summer and add some freshness to it with a great garden. It not only provides a great meal, but also a great work out!

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Growing Your Own Fruit & Veg Is Simple And Easy | VIDEO

Growing your own herbs, fruits and vegetables is a very easy task and can be done in very different places and various ways, you just have to be creative, dedicate some time to take care of your plants and nature will reward you with amazing, fresh and home-grown produce that can be used for your health, nutrition and beauty purposes.

Potted sweet peas

No matter if you own a house with a large outdoor space or live in the smallest of apartments, you can have your garden adjusted to your space and needs. In apartments - balconies and even windowsills can be used as little gardens where herbs or smaller vegetables, e.g., mini tomatoes, lettuce, peas or beans can be grown. Larger spaces will allow you to plant all kinds of fruit and veg in designated veg and fruit raised beds, you will have enough space to plant also fruit trees and even have your own greenhouse.

Greenhouse

The simplest way to start a garden is by obtaining potting soil and plant containers from local garden centers or from neighbors who already do some gardening. This will work the best for people who want to grow their own herbs and veg but does not have enough space.  

Raised veg beds for carrots (in front), garlic (to the right), spring onion and scallions (at the back)

Last weekend I spent some time in Waterford, visiting my family and had a great chat with my Dad who is a proud gardener with huge experience growing his own food. He walked me through his garden and we had a great chat about different herbs, fruit & veg he is growing this year. Watch the video to see my Dad's garden and find out how easy it is to grow your own food and how little you really need to start your own little garden project:

Feeling very inspired myself and might give it a try. I am keen to start growing my own herbs for tea and food, especially sage which is super great for the health of your skin & body, has anti-inflammatory effects for rosecea skin and acne, and is just really tasty and adds lots of flavour to your food.

Sage

Apple trees

Greenhouse and raised beds with herbs

Five Power Foods For Healthy Living

A healthy, balanced diet is paramount to promoting your body's health and wellbeing. There are tons of foods which are extremely beneficial to the human body with a number of them preventing disease and weight gain. Read through this introduction to our five power foods of choice and learn to incorporate these great ingredients into delicious healthy dishes.

Power food 1: Salmon

Salmon is no stranger to the healthy foods group and has been praised over the years for its health benefits and disease preventing properties. Salmon is packed full of protein and has a high content of amino acids, making it a true powerhouse food. Salmon has been revered over the years for its high content in the fatty acid omega 3. 

You've heard of omega 3, right? If not then welcome to the rest of your life! Omega 3 has long been hailed for its tremendous effects in decreasing cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks and strokes. In addition, omega 3 is also beneficial for the eyes as it combats macular degeneration and chronic dry eye. The omega 3 content in salmon is also a major preventer of cancerous development and has long been noted as the ideal power food to reduce the risk of cancer.

Power food 2: Beans

Beans and other legumes are a great source of vegetarian protein and high quality carbohydrates. Legumes are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber and also contain high amounts of magnesium, iron and potassium. Some great legumes which you should include in your daily diet include black beans, kidney beans, white beans, soy beans, chick peas and lentils. 

The nutrients in beans and legumes lower cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure. This fruit will reduce the risks of coronary artery disease, diabetes and osteoporosis, leaving you with a happy, healthy heart. Now that's a power food!

Power food 3: Kale

Kale seems to be the power food which flies under the radar. It's like the talented kid that keeps to himself and nobody realizes his full potential, until it comes to graduation and he walks away with every prize on offer. That's kale! Kale is closely related to wild cabbage and when steamed the health benefits can be astronomical. Kale lowers cholesterol and greatly reduces the risk of bladder, breast, colon, ovary and prostate cancer. 

Like most other cruciferous vegetables kale is packed full of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The cancer prevention abilities of kale can be attributed to its wealth of glucosinolates. Once ingested, the body can use these glucosinolates to form cancer preventing compounds, safeguarding the body against cancer. In addition, kale's effects on cholesterol make it great for cardiovascular support and it is also a brilliant for its detoxifying properties.

Power food 4: Açaí

If Açaí berries could talk they would probably say something like, "You may call me - The Energy Fruit!" Why, because that's exactly what they are! Açaí contains stacks of antioxidants, amino acids and fatty acids. They also contain monosaturated fats, dietary fibre and phytosterols which are great for promoting cardiovascular and digestive health. 

Some might say that the Açaí is almost the perfect amino acid complex, and seeing as amino acids are responsible for muscle contraction and regeneration Açaí finds itself perfectly positioned as power food number four!

Power food 5: Almonds

Finally, at number five, we find our old friend, the almond. Almonds are one of the world's healthiest tree nuts. They promote a healthy heart, prevent weight gain and fight diabetes and Alzheimer's. Almonds are rich in magnesium and are great at preventing heart attacks and hypertension. An effective food for reducing cholesterol, almonds have also long been hailed as a great weight gain preventative. 

Large amounts of protein and fibre ensure that you don't overeat, proving a great weight management food. They regulate blood pressure, contribute towards gastrointestinal health and combat diabetes. Almonds health benefits are extensive and that's why the almond proudly represents the nut family as power food number five.

You are what you eat, an old saying which holds true. Expect to get back from your body whatever you put in. If you want to ensure health and wellbeing then you must be prepared to give your body the nutrients that it needs to function at optimum efficiency. Incorporate these power foods into your diet and notice phenomenal results.

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