Living Healthy With Challenges

Cholesterol Free Soups

2012-02-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

Healthy soups can help you maintain your health. Nothing also tastes better on a cold day then a good bowl of delicious soup. And if it is cholesterol free then even better for you are improving your health without risk of the ailments that come with eating food with cholesterol.
http://www.squidoo.com/cholesterol-free-soups

Vegetarian Side Dishes

2011-12-29T09:29:00.000-08:00

Vegetarian Side Dishes

Keeping Healthy means eating healthy. A vegetarian diet helps you stay healthy and is heart healthy as well as preventing many other diseases and ailments that can be bought on by a diet high is fat, and high in cholesterol.

For delicious side dishes tune in to: http://www.squidoo.com/vegetarian-side-dishes

FOODS THAT PROMOTE PROSTRATE HEALTH

2011-12-28T15:18:00.000-08:00

FOR FOODS THAT PROMOTE PROSTRATE HEALTH, VISIT MY SITE AT:
http://www.squidoo.com/foods-that-promote-prostrate-health

Cholesterol Free Recipes

2011-12-23T13:06:00.000-08:00

For my page of cholesterol free recipes

http://cholesterolfreerecipes.blogspot.com

Vegetarian Nutritional Tips

2011-12-22T11:20:00.000-08:00

For some vegetarian nutritional tips look at my squidoo lens at:
http://www.squidoo.com/vegetarian-nutritional-tips

WELCOME TO MY PAGE OF INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES

2011-03-05T14:53:00.000-08:00

I hope this page of inspirational quotes, will make you think and definetly leave you inspired. Some of the most simple things in life can leave the most lasting impressions, and most things will not cost you a dime. I believe it is because, it is these things that will inspire you. Quotes, are I believe written by the common every day person, who have learned lessons, through their sweat and tears, but at least something inspired them, and the quote was written, so others could learn from their experience.

On this page, some quotes are ones I wrote myself, others are ones I have read and that have inspired me. I hope you will find some that will inspire you, and that you can relate to your life, in a positive way.

TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN, STARS LIGHT, PERSEVERANCE PREVAIL

2011-03-03T06:28:00.000-08:00

THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN, STARS LIGHT, PERSEVERANCE PREVAIL

This is a quote I wrote when I reached the milestone of being one year smoke free, nicotine free. A kind lady who was computer smart made this for me on the smoking support group that helped me get through it all. Today, I can happily say that on June 24, 2011, at 2:20 pm, I will be three years smoke free.

I did not get out unscaved unfortunately, I do have mild emphysema. However, I will forever be grateful for the support and kindness the support group have me, and a special thanks to a sweet computer smart lady in Hawaii, who made the picture, I am using on this post. Thank you Trish.

I am very grateful that I do not have the urge to smoke, as some people say, they always do no matter how long they have been quit. Some other people continue to smoke despite emphysema or lung cancer. So I indeed do feel blessed.

If you are one of the people out there that are still smoking, I do realize that no amount of preaching will make you lay them down. You will only do that if you want to, and if you make that decision yourself, and for yourself.

I just hope more and more people do, for perhaps you will be one of the lucky ones, but I was not. I never looked at it, like I was rolling the dice with my life, but I was. For any of you who are still smoking I am hoping you feel the gamble is not worth it. Here is the quote I wrote at my one year milestone.

"MAY THE STARS LIGHT MY WAY TO THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN, WHERE

I AM SMOKE FREE AND NICOTINE FREE, AND WHERE GOOD HEALTH, FRESH

AIR AND PERSERVERANCE PREVAIL."

Susan E. Payton

THE GLASS IS THE MEASUREMENT OF HOW YOU VIEW LIFE

2011-02-27T17:13:00.000-08:00

THE GLASS IS THE MEASUREMENT OF HOW YOU VIEW LIVE

Viewing the glass half full, instead of half empty, is a journey of how you live your life. It is the difference between optimism or pessimism. It also I believe can measure your desire to be happy, or to be sad, to be hopeful or defeated.

This saying has been around a long time, so I will not sign my name to this quote, for I do not know who wrote it to be honest, but I have said it many times myself.

It really comes down to are you will be count the blessings you do have, or only what you believe you do not have.

So look at that glass half full, for we all having something to be grateful for, and we all have blessings to be thankful for.

I did not write the quote, but what it mean to me, that I will sign my name to.

Susan E. Payton

STEP OVER THE LINE AND TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT

2011-02-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

Here is a quote that many of you might have already heard. It certainly is one that is so true, and most of us have been guilty of it, some time or another to some degree.

"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different results.

Albert Einstein

Yes, written by one of the most well geniuses that we have heard of during our life time.

Step outside the box and take a chance on doing something different. Change can be frightening, but it also can bring wonderful surprises and new beginnings. It can also correct destructive behavior and replace it with productive behavior that can change your life for the better.

Susan E. Payton

JUDGE AND JURY BY CHARACTER

2011-02-11T11:57:00.001-08:00

You can judge a man's character by how they treat someone who can do nothing for them.

UMBRELLA'S FOR RAINY DAYS

2011-02-07T10:49:00.000-08:00

UMBRELLA'S FOR RAINY DAYS

I used to let difficut times make me sad. Unoticed, in my tireless efforts for accomplishement left me feeling invisable.

Despite an over head full sun, I felt like the days were grey and the skies looked cloudy.

...THEN I LEARNED HOW TO DANCE IN THE RAIN..

So grab that perfect umbrella and turn on the music.

Susan E. Payton

TAKE A RIDE ON LIFE'S TRAIN JOURNEY

2011-02-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

TAKE A RIDE ON LIFE'S TRAIN JOURNEY

I saw this quote and thought it was worth sharing. I always thought that perhaps some of the unhappiness of the world stemmed from people expecting more then the world could possibly offer them. I think this quote put it nicely.

"Anyone that imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste alot of time going around shouting that he has been robbed. The fact is most putts don't drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to be just like other people, most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration and most jobs are more often dull then otherwise.

Life is just like an old time Rail Journey ..............................- delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vista's and thrilling bursts of speed.

The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride."

A GIFT A DAY FOR LIFE

2010-12-29T17:38:00.000-08:00

Every day of life is a gift. Enjoy each sunrise like is is a special present wrapped with a beautiful bow. I believe that once you have accomplished that, your regrets will always be less, and your happiness more abundant.

When you wake up every morning and see the sun shining in your window, smile and be grateful that God has given you another wonderful day to do whatever you want with. I believe most of us have taken so many days of our lives for granted, when each and every day is truely a gift.

Susan E. Payton

SMILE WITH KINDNESS

2010-12-28T06:18:00.000-08:00

This is one of my own quotes. Life apparantly taught me the meaning of this quote. I used to say it many times to my children especially, for the value of the quote will take you a long way along the journey of life, and you will be touching others lives, as well as rewarding yourself.

" KINDNESS DOESN'T COST YOU VERY MUCH AND SMILES ARE FREE SO WHY NOT GIVE THEM AWAY"

Susan E. Payton

Stayed tuned for my next page of nutritional tips.

HERBAL CURES FOR COMMON AILMENTS

2010-12-25T15:14:00.000-08:00

I will be listing some of my favorite herbal cures for common ailments in the following posts. I hope you will find some of them helpful to you.

OH THE AROMA OF THE WONDER DRUG--GARLIC --HERBAL CURE

2010-12-08T09:30:00.000-08:00

OH THE AROMA OF THE WONDER DRUG -GARLIC - HERBAL CURE

The term "Wonder drug" is not too strong a description for this aromic bulb. Garlic, it is safe to say , is the most thoroughly researched and best understood natural medicine in the world. Historical mention of it dates back to 3000 BC.

Modern studies have confirmed nearly all the tradional folk uses - and more. It's a broad spectrum antibiotic, good for everything from ear infections to minor skin wounds. It is a cardiovascular tonic capable of fidning off heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. It's also a blood regulator that may keep the oid on diabetes, an immunte system enhancer, a possible anti-cancer agent and more.

For minor skin infections, mash a clove of garlic, mix it with water to form a loose paste and spead it over the affected area. Garlic will kill germs, prevent infection, and promote healing. (It has the same antibacterial power as 100,000 units of pencillin. The typical dose of penicillin contains 500.000 to 1 million units.

OH SUCH TERRIBLE MOUTH PAIN -- HERBAL CURE FOR TOOTH ACHE

2010-12-04T18:00:00.000-08:00

OH SUCH TERRIBLE MOUTH PAIN -- HERBAL CURE FOR TOOTH ACHE

Tooth aches are extremely unpleasant and often very painful. They are a signal that you need professional attention, but sojetimes you can't get in to see the dentist immediately. A little temporty relief can help you until you get an appointment. Here are a few herbs you can use as first aid, until you can see you dentist to cure the root of the problem.

OUCH THOSE SOLAR RAYS -HERBAL CURE FOR SUNBURN

2010-11-27T09:24:00.000-08:00

OUCH, THOSE SOLAR RAYS -- HERBAL CURE FOR SUNBURN

Almost everybody has had a nip of sunburn at one time of another. Excessive sun exposure can age your skin prematurely and lead to several types of skin cancer, including the deadly serious malignant melanoma.

But I am not here to talk about skin cancer, that should be left to your doctor and the professionals.
But I am going to offer how to deal with the sting of a nasty sunburn, with some herbal remedies despite your best effort of prevention. (Which of course we all know is using sun screen.

1. ALOE VERA - Since the days of Cleopatra, this plant has had a reputation as one of nature's best moisturizers.

2. Witch Hazel - A liquid extract of this herb had anti-inflammatory action ind is very soothing for sunburn or any minor cut, scrape or bruise.

3.GINGER ROOT - Pour the juice of crushed ginger root on the burned skin, then apply the pulp to the area. It soothes the stinging sensation.

ANTISEPTICS -HERBAL CURES

2010-11-21T19:53:00.000-08:00

Every house needs a first-aid kit for cuts, scrapes, burns and other wounds. Nature has supplied many of the remedies you need.

The following herbs are helpful as antiseptics. They promote skin repair, form a protective barrier that ekeps germs otu, ill germs that have already infiltrated a wound and prevent scars.

1.ALOE - For over a 3,500 years, people have held he healing powers of this plant in the highest regard. Egypyian physicians used it in the treatment of infections, and skin disorders. Modern science proved they knew what they were talking about all along. Aloe speeds the healing process of first and second degree burns. Aloe keeps wounds moist yet sterl

2. CINNAMON - This spice is good for more then just toast and cookies. Studies show it's a powerful antiseptic capable of killing bacteria, fungi and viruses. It contains the antiseptic

eugenol, so while it is preventing infection, it eases discomfort.

Sprinkle cinnamon directly on cuts once they have been thoroughy cleaned.

3.TEA TREE OIL - This oil contains antiseptic agents that act as a highly effective disinfectant. You can buy tea tree oil in health food stores and herb supply houses.

Note: It is important to keep an eye on any skin wound as it heals.l If you see pus at the site of inflamtion abd redbess soreadubg from the wound, see a doctore. Infection is nothing to take lightly, and if left untreated, it may cause further problems.

OH THAT ITCHY FOOT- ATHLETE'S FOOT -HERBAL CURES

2010-11-17T16:29:00.000-08:00

ATHLETE'S FOOT

HERBAL CURE

Athlete's Foot is a long term fungal infection of the foot, that shows up on the skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet. Below are a couple of herbal cures that can clear up the condition and spare you side effects that medications may cause you.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

This Grand Daddy of folk medicine, this herbal cure has just the right acid and mineral composition to do wonders for athlete's foot. Rub it on the affected area several times a day. It might sting at first, but don't be alarmed, it's not that bad. Stick with it the stinging will pass.

GARLIC

Garlic, also known as the "Wonder Bulb", garlic can also hunt down and kill fungi, and several studies show it can effectively treat the particular fungi, that causes Athlete's Foot.

Apply garlic directly to severe outbreaks by rubbing a raw clove over the area.

BAD BREATH - HERBAL CURES

2010-11-16T19:04:00.000-08:00

HERBS THAT CAN HELP CURE BAD BREATH

Bad breath is caused by a build up of germs in your mouth. They come from decaying food and beverage residue. These germs then produce waste products heavily laden with sulfer compounds.

Here a two herbs that will help in controlling bad breath.

ALFALFA

All plants are rich in chlorophyll, but alfalfa has it in particular abundance, and in a form that is particularly accessible.

Sip alfalfa tea several times a day to keep your breath fresh.

PARSLEY

This pretty green leaf is more than a decoration to dress up a plate. People have used it a breath freshner since the day of ancient Romje. Parsley has one of the highest chlorophyll content of any herb.

Simply chew a few fresh, raw springs

EYE AILMENTS -HERBAL CURE

2010-11-15T16:43:00.000-08:00

EYE AILMENTS HERBAL CURES

Any inflammation, redness or irritation could be a sign of infection, and that is a potential threat to vision, so if your problem does not clear up within 24 hours or if it gets worse, you should see a doctor immediately.

Here is a herbal cure that sometimes will clear up your without seeking the help of a physician. This is an old Chinese herbal treatment that clears up itchy tearing eyes.

HERBAL TREATMENT OF EYE CONDITIONS

GREEN TEA

Bathe your eye in green tea, once per hour. Of course as previously mentioned, if the condition does not improve or worsens within 24 hours, then see your doctor immediately.

HERBAL REMEDY FOR DANDRUFF

2010-11-14T16:07:00.000-08:00

For an old fashioned remedy for dandruff, you can combine olive oil and ginger root, and apply this before you shampoo.

If your dandruff is really severe, then allow the mixture to sit for 10 to 15 minutes.

Another popular herbal remedy for dandruff that has a proven track record is Rosemary oil, or crushed Rosemary leaves, mixed with olive oil. Work into scalp and let sit for 15 minutes.

Stay tuned for my next page of Inspirational quotes

SUSAN'S CHOLESTEROL FREE SOUPS

2010-09-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

SUSAN'S CHOLESTEROL FREE SOUPS

Today we have all become aware of what CHOLESTEROL is, and what it can do to us building up in our veins. It brings back the old saying most of us have heard sometimes in our lives. "You are what you eat".

Yes, they do have medication that can help us with cholesterol, but they never work solely by themselves. Doctors will tell you they work with a combination of diet and exercise. With my husband I have managed to bring down his cholesterol levels to his doctors amazement with diet alone. Thus I began my own little career of making RECIPES FOR CHOLESTEROL FREE SOUPS and other dishes.

My husband is fussy about taste, so it has taken some time and trial and error to get the recipes tasty so that he would eat them, but what I am sharing with you is some that he likes, and his lab work shows that indeed you are what you eat, and so is your cholesterol levels.

I hope these recipes help you. Some are on the first page of my blog, for the others just click on the bottom of the first page where it says older posts and keep reading and you will find them.

Some of my husbands favorites that I have posted are:

1. French vegetblee Soup with pistou- cholesterol free

2. Susan's cholesterol free minestroni soup

3. Cholesterol free corn lovers vegetble stew

4.Fire and Nip Vegetable Soup with Patty Pan Squash

5. Cholesterol Free French Vegetable Consomme Brunoise

6.Ultra Creamy Garbanzo and Cabbage Soup

I hope these recipe prove to be tasty and nutritious for you and help you improve your health as it has my husband's.

AEROBIC WATER EXERCISES

2010-06-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

AEROBIC WATER EXERCISES

Regular land exercise can be done under under water. The bouyancy of the water supports most of the body's weight, while the resistance of the water make your muscles work harder to perform movements.

Walking under water makes it possible for those with knee pain to get a good aerobic work out without stressing the joints.

YOGA - HEAL MIND AND BODY

2010-06-20T10:15:00.000-07:00

Yoga is a healing system of theory and practice. It is a combination of breathing exercises, physical pictures and meditations that have been practiced for more then 5,000 years.

Yoga is considered a Mind - Body Intervention, that is used to reduce the health effects of generalized stress.

Yoga is believed to calm the nervous system and balance the body, mind and spirit. It is thought by its practitioners to p;revent diseases by keeping the energy open and life energy flowing.

Yoga has been used to lower blood pressure, reduce stres and improve coordination, flexibility, concentration, sleep and digestion. It has also been used as supplementary therapy for such diverse conditions such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, Aids and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Most Yoga calsses consiset of a combination of physical exercise, breathing exercises and meditation. These characteristics make yoga a particularly beneficial kid of exercise for people with certain health conditions, including, heart disease, hypertenstion, asthma dn back problems.

So grab a Yoga Mat and let's get started!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DOPAMINE - THE FEEL GOOD CHEMICAL

2010-06-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

DOPAMINE - THE FEEL GOOD CHEMICAL

I have a very important anniversary coming up, the 24th of this month. It is very important to me, for I will be two years smoke free, after smoking the nasty sticks for 41 long years. A wonderful milestone, and I must say, I am very proud of myself, and very pleased I somehow found the strength to accomplish this. During my days on about.com smoking forum, I heard a great deal about dopamine. It is a chemical in your brain that gives you a sense of well being. Without it none of us would feel very good. When we smoked cigarettes, the nicotine hit that center of our brain, and it made our brains give out that chemical artificially.

A few weeks ago I heard on the one of the TV shows, it was either Dr. OZ or The Doctors that music made your brain give out dopamine. No wonder playing my guitar always makes me feel so good and to tell you the truth it got me through the worst of the withdrawal from nicotine.

So if you are trying to stop smoking or just would like to feel a little better, ------------ Then either hit a note on the keyboard or strike a chord on the ol guitar, and if you can't play, then turn on the stereo, and start to feel good.

ARTICLES THAT EXPLAIN THE DAMAGE CIGARETTE SMOKING CAN CAUSE

2010-03-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

ARTICLES THAT EXPLAIN THE DAMGE CIGARETTE SMOKING CAN CAUSE

The following articles will explain the damage and adverse effects of smoking cigarettes and cigarette smoke. These facts will amaze you, and hopefully make someone who reads it, think about the poisons and after effects that smoking cigarettes can cause. If just one person who reads this thinks about joing a smoking cessation group,then it will be worth the time I have spent posting.

CIGARETTE SMOKING CAN CAUSE NEUROLOGICAL DAMAGE

2010-03-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

CIGARETTE SMOKING CAN CAUSE NEUROLOGICAL DAMAGE

Researchers from the Indian Brain Research Center found that a compound in tobacco provokes white blood cells in the central nervous system to attack healthy cells leading to severe neurological damage.

Researchers say a compound known as NNK, which is common in tobacco and also cigarette smoke is a procarinogen, a chemical substance which becomes carcinogenic, when it is altered by the meteabolic process of the body.

NNK provides an exaggerated response from the brains immune cells. When provoked by NNK, these cells start to attack healthy brain cells, rather then the unhealthy cells they are suppose to attack.

This research sheds light on the process that leads to nerve cell damage in those who moke cigarettes or consume tobacco on a regular basis.

EASY TO START SMOKING, QUITTING IS A BIT TRICKIER

2010-03-05T12:09:00.000-08:00

WHY CAN'T I STOP SMOKING

It may be easy to start smoking, but quitting is a bit trickier. In brief the brain of an addicted smoker treats nicotine as if it is essential for survival. Genetic traits may pre-dispose some smokers to stronger addictions. Imost smoker try to quit unaided resulting in a high failure rate.

It you smoke, no one needs to tell you how bad it is. So why havan't you quit? Why hasn't everyone?

Because smoking feels good. It stimulates and focuses the mind at the same time that is soothes, and satisfies. The concentrated dose of nicotine in a drag off a cigarette triggers an immediate flood of dopamine and other neurochemicals, that wash over the brains pleasure centers.

Inhaling tobacco smoke is the quickest most efficient way to get nicotine to the brain. Dr. Abrams, an addiction researcher at the National Institution of health said, "It's more difficult to get off nicotine, then heroine or cocaine. Smoking hijacks the reward systems in the brain that drive you to seek food, water and sex, driving you to seek nicotine with the same urgency. "Your brain thinks that this has to do with survival of the species.

Nicotine isn't equally addictive for everyone. Alot of people do not smoke because they never like it to begin with. Then there are the "chippers", who smoke occasionally but never seem to get hooked.

But most people who smoke will eventually do it all day every day.

If you are smoking right now, cessation is not an easy, and it is different for each individual. But it certainly is a journey, but compared to lung cancer or emphysema, it is a cake walk. The decision will always be an individual one, but personally, I chose to live.

NICOTINE AND COCAINE AFFECT THE BRAIN IN THE SAME WAY

2010-02-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

COCAINE AND NICOTINE AFFECT THE BRAIN IN THE SAME WAY

Since I stopped smoking on June 24, 2008 at 2:40pm, I have done alot of research on why it took me forty-one long years to lay those nasty smelling killers down. Now if I end up having a conversation with someone about smoking, (usually people who are still smoking). Did you know that nicotine and cocaine does the same thing to your brain, I ask them?"

They look at me in amazement, and with wide eyes say you are kidding arent' you?

The sad thing is I am not kidding at all. So I found this printed out on the internet and I think it says it well.

COCAINE, NICOTINE AND DOPAMINE

Nicotine activates the same reward pathways in the brain other drugs of abuse such as cocaine or amphetamines do, although to a lesser degree.

Research has shown that nicotine incresases the level of dopamine in the brain,m a neurotransmitter that is responsible for feelings of pleasure and well being. Acute effects of nicotine wear off within minutes, so people must continue dosing themeselves frequently throughout the day to maintain the pleasurable effects of nicotine, and to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

The truth is nicotine is the legal drug, one that is advertised, and to be quite frank with you, one that is quite lucrative. Yes, we know it kills many people every year, yet, people continue to smoke. While at the hospital for a chest xray, I saw a man sitting there with an oxygen tank and oxygen in his nose. Since I have stopped smoking, I found I now have a nose of a hound dog when it comes to smelling cigarette smoke. And this poor gentlemen with the oxygen reaked of it. So I walked up to him and asked him, "I can smell cigarette smoke on you?" He replied a very proud yes. I said why would you do that when you need oxygen to breath? His reply was a very offended, well you have to die of something.

Now that was a very startling answer. I am one of the lucky ones, for I have emphysema. You might say how could that be lucky. Well because it is not lung cancer. And because with good care I have a chance of living a full life.

My question is has our country over looked perhaps one of the most powerful drugs around, and making it even more dangerous it is legal, and profitable. Also that it is very accepted. Many people still look at it as a dirty habit they should some day correct, instead of an addiction. Remember it does the same thing to your brain, as cocaine.

I am not sure there is an easy answer to this, but at least the public has a right to know. Why isn't it written on every pack of cigarettes, "This product contains nicotine which is an addictive substance." Just say this can be harmful to your health is just not enough anymore. We know more now, and we know that nicotine is very very addictive, don't we have the obligation to print it on each and every pack and be honest about it.

For those of you who are smokers and read this don't be offended, for I am not preaching to you, just trying to get you to think for yourselves. And remember if you make the decision to quit, you are not alone anymore, there are plenty of people to help you.

In fact if you post on here I will always respond also. I feel like a poster child of "Why should I quit? Why should I be that uncomfortable? Because I found an even more uncomfortable feeling, ----- Not being able to catch my breath, not being able to breathe, walking into an emergency room and saying, "Please help me I can't breathe?" That makes withdrawal from nicotine seem like a walk in the park.

Thanks for listening and if you are still puffing, if I just make once person think about what they are doing, then it was worth the time it took to write this post.

Susan Payton

Any comments are welcome

SUSAN'S QUICK CHOLESTEROL FREE PIZZAS

2010-02-19T16:52:00.000-08:00

SUSAN'S QUICK CHOLESTEROL FREE PIZZA'S

English Muffins

Prego Spagetti Sauce (Or any brand that is cholesterol free)

Veggie Mozzarella cheese

Take English Muffins and cut in half. Place them on a cookie sheet and then spoon spagetti sauce over each piece of muffin until covered generously. Then top with Veggie Mozzarella cheese. Place in oven at 350 degrees until cheese melts.

This is quick, easy and yet eat without guilt. This is a healthy quick meal that is cholesterol free. Enjoy this quick healthy meal or snack.

CORN LOVERS VEGETABLE STEW - CHOLESTEROL FREE

2010-01-23T06:28:00.000-08:00

CORN LOVERS VEGETABLE STEW - CHOLESTEROL FREE

There are two kinds of corn in this colorful autumn stew: whole sweet corn and whole hominy. Braise them with butternut squash , bell peppers and tomatoes to make a sweet brothy stew that just begs to be served. Southern-style over halved corn bread. If you don't like hominy, substitute kidney beans or pinto beans. This stew reheats well.

SERVES 4

2 1/2 cups Vegetable Broth, homemade or store bought

1 onion, thinly sliced

2 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups 1 inch cubes peeled butternut squash

1 16 ounce can diced peeled tomatoes

1 1/4 cups fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels, drained

1 15 1/4 ounce can whole corn kernels, drained

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 14 1/2 ounce can golden or white hominy

1 red or green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, in 1 inch squares

In a Dutch oven or 4-quart saucepan, bring 1/2 cup of the broth to a boil over moderate heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until onion softens, about 5 minutes. Add squash, tomatoes, corn, thyme, salt, pepper and remaining 2 cups of broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to maintain a simmer and cook 10 minutes. Add the hominy and the bell pepper and return to a simmer. Cover and simmer until the squash and bell pepper are tender when pierced but not mushy, about 10 minutes.

Serving Size - 2 cups Fat: 1.5 g

Calories - 201 cholesterol 0 mg

carbohydrate 47.0 g Protein 5.8 g

Sodium 916.0 mg ( If you cannot find butternut squash, then you can substitute bannana

or acorn squash)

ULTRA CREAMY GARBANZO AND CABBAGE SOUP

2010-01-07T11:05:00.000-08:00

Cholesterol Free Ultra Creamy Garbanzo and Cabbage Soup

This cholesterol free Ultra Creamy Garbanzo and Cabbage Soup, is surprisingly quick to make. It is made with no added fat by braising the onion in water or stock in place of oil.

1 onion

4 1/2 cups of water or stock

1 garlic clove, crushed

1 large tomato diced

2 cups finely chopped cabbage

1 potato diced

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

2 cups cooked garbanzo beans

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

In a large kettle braise the onion in 1/2 cup water or stock until it is soft. Add remaining ingredients and simnmer until potato and cabbage are tender, about 15 minutes.

Ladle approximately 3 cups of soup into blender and blend until smooth, being sure to hold the lid tightly, and to start the blender on low speed. Return to kettle, stir to mix and serve.

FIRE AND NIP VEGETABLE SOUP WITH PATTY PAN SQUASH

2010-01-03T07:48:00.000-08:00

FIRE AND NIP VEGETABLE SOUP WITH PATTY PAN SQUASH

Serves 4 to 6

1 medium onion, chopped

4 large garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup red wine, stock or water

1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

4 cups water or stock

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 jalapeno pepper diced

2 stalks of celery diced

2 cups sliced okra

2 teaspoons finely minced fresh ginger ( don't leave this out)

1 teaspoon each dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, and ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon each black pepper and cayenne pepper

1 cup diced zucchini

1/2 cup diced patty pan squash

1 15-ounce can navy beans, with liquid

1-2 tablespoons of soy sauce

4 cups of cooked brown rice

Braise the onion and garlic in wine until onion is soft. Add tomatoes, water, green pepper, jalapena peppers, celery, okra, ginger, and seasoning; simmer for 15 minutes.

Add the diced zucchini and patty pan squash and the navy beans with their liquid, cover and cook until the zucchini and patty pan is just tender, about 10 minutes. Add soy sauce to taste.

Serve over cooked brown rice

FRENCH VEGETABLE CONSOMME BRUNOISE

2010-01-02T16:51:00.000-08:00

FRENCH VEGETABLE CONSOMME BRUNOISE

A classic consommeis a foundation dish that every French cooking student must master. The goal is a crystal-clear broth in which to float small pasta shapes or a tiny dice of vegetables (a brunoise). Egg whites do the work of clarifying: they bind with the solid particles and float to the top of the broth leaving a clear liquid underneath. Strained, the clarified broth makes an elegant start to a holiday meal.

consomme:

2 quarts tomato juice

2 quarts V8 Juice

3 cups egg whites ( from approximately 2 dozen large eggs)

2 cups diced onions

2 garlic cloves, minced

Vegetable Garnish

1 cup diced carrots

1 cup frozen green peas

1 cup diced leeks, white part only

2 tablespoons minced parsley or chives

Put tomato juice and V-8 juice in a large pot. In a bowl, whisk together egg whites, onion, and garlic just to break up the whites. Add them to the pot, whisking. Bring mixture to a boil over moderate heat, stirring occasionally. Adjust heat to maintain a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Strain mixture through a sieve lined with a double thi9ckness of cheesecloth, or with paper towels or a coffee filter. The consomme should be crystal-clear.

Return consomme to a clean saucepan. Taste and adjust seasoning. Bring to a boil over moderately high heat. Add carrots, peas, and leeks. Simmer 2 minutes. Serve in bowls, garnishing each portion with a little minced parsley.

Serves 8

Serving size 1 cup

Calories 30

Fat 0 mg

Cholesterol 0 mg

Carbohydrates 1.3 g

Proteins 0.1 g

Sodium 300.0 mg

FRENCH VEGETABLE SOUP WITH PISTOU - CHOLESTEROL FREE

2010-01-01T10:44:00.000-08:00

FRENCH VEGETABLE SOUP WITH PISTOU - CHOLESTEROL FREE

This is the classic summer French Vegetable Soup of Provence, where basil and garlic are used as freely as salt and pepper. Pistou like Italion pesto, is an herb paste--in this case, a paste of basil, beans, and garlic that stirred into the soup at the last minute to thicken and flavor it.

SERVES 4

1/2 cup diced onion 1/2 cup diced carrots

1/2 cup diced celery 1/2 cup diced turnips

1/2 cup diced peeled russet-type baking potato

1/2 cup diced leeks, white part only

1/4 cup diced, peeled tomato, fresh or canned

4 cups Vegetable broth, homemade or store bought

1/2 cup 1 inch lengths dried whole wheat spagetti

1 15 oz. can of navy bean or 2 cups of home cooked navy beans in 3/4 cup of liquid

1 cup tightly packed basil leaves ( See tip below)

3 garlic cloves minced

Salt and pepper

In a large pot combine onion, carrots, celery, turnips, potato, leeks, tomato, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer over moderate heat. Cover and adjust heat, to maintain a simmer. Cook 10 minutes. Add spagetti and one cup of beans with their liquid. Cover and simmer until spagetti is tender, 10 to 12 minutes.

To make pistou, combine remaining beans with their liquid, basil and garlic in a food processor and puree until smooth. Add the puree to the soup, and stir until blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

TIP -Basil leaves tend to blacken and go limp in the refrigerator. To extend their life, wrap them in damp paper towels, and then tuck the package in a plastic bag. They will keep for several days.

COUPONS FOR VEGGIE CHEESE

2009-12-14T12:21:00.000-08:00

For COUPONS for VEGGIE CHEESE , so you can have CHOLESTEROL FREE meals and still enjoy the wonderful taste of cheese. Made by Galaxy foods, this cheese comes in different flavors, and is absolutly delicious and cholesterol free. You can call once a month for coupons at 407-855-5500. If no one seems to answer, when you call or you get a voice mail, just leave a message and someone has always called me back and took my request, and sent me coupons.

ENJOY THE WONDERFUL TASTE OF CHEESE WITHOUT THE WORRY OF CHOLESTEROL

RATATOUILLE -CHOLESTEROL FREE

2009-12-11T12:26:00.000-08:00

RATATOUILLE -CHOLESTEROL FREE This is a classic dish from the sunny area of Provence using the freshest tomatoes, zucchini , eggplant, sweet peppers and onions, sauteed in olive oil with herbs.

Prepatation time 40 minutes
Total cooking time 1 hour
Serves 4

1 onion diced
1/3 cup olive oil, for cooking
4 tomatoes, peeled and chopped and seeded.
2 cloves of garlic
1 red sweet bell pepper, seed and cut into short strips
bouquet garni (see note at bottom
2 zucchini, cut into batons (long strips)
2 eggplants, cut into batons
1 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

1. Prheat the oven to 350 degreesF. In a flameproof casserole or Dutch oven, cook the onion in a little of the olive oil, over medium-low heat, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until soft, being careful not to let the onion color. Add the tomato and garlic and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a skillet, saute the red pepper in oil for 2-3 minutes over medium high heat. Strain off the excess oil and add to the toamto mixture with the bouquet garni.
3. Saute the prepared zucchini and eggplant separately in oil, for 3 to 4 minutes. Add to the tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, cover with a lid or foil and bake for 30 minutes. Just before serving, remove he bouquet garni, stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

chef's tip - The bouquet garni is a selection of hers tied in a neat bundle for easy removal from the dish before serving. It is made by wrapping the green part of a leek around celery leaves, a sprig of thyme, a bay leaf and parsley stalkis, and then securing them together with string. When using a herb such as basil in the recipe, yhou can replace the parsley stalks with the basil stalks for added flavor.
Below is a picture of Ratatouille.
I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS RECIPE

Best Diet to Reverse Heart Disease

2009-11-07T13:31:00.000-08:00

Scientists agree that heart disease can be reversed. Research also shows that people who are concerned about their hearts get little benefit from switching from regular meats to lean meats ro to chicken and fish. Some may hve a reduced risk of heart attack compared to those who eat fattier cuts. But for the most part, atherosclerosis will still progress and they have little chance of reversing any existing heart disease.

Many doctors, and even medical organizations still recommend diets that derive about 30 per cent of their calories from fat, consisting of lean meats, fish and poulty without the skin. Unfortunately, researchers have found that patients got worse on such diets. It may be that plaques do not grow as rapidly on a lean meat diet as they do on an unrestricted diet, but they still grow. In most patients as they are busy pulling the skin off their chicken or trimming the fat off their meat, the blood supply to the heart is slowly and surely being choked off. The lean-meat, chicken, and fish diet just does not work very well for most people.

THE POWER FOODS ARE FOODS FROM PLANTS- Vegetarians have a much better menu for the heart. Lacto-ova-vegetarians (those who shun meats, p;oultry, and fish but consume dairy products and eggs), do much better then those on lean meat diets, while pure begetarians who steer clear of all animal products do best of all.
If you were to switch from a standard American diet to a lean-meat diet in which youate no more then two four ounce servings of lean meat each day, and you kept your overall fat intake to 30 percent of calories, you would still only get about half the cholesterol-lowering effect that you wuld have gotten had you chosen a lato-ova-vegetarian diet, assuming your experiences were similar to those in research experiments.

If you were to adapt a pure vegatarian diet, on the other hand, your cholesterol control would be better still. A pure vegatarian diet is sometimes called vegan (VEE-gun) and, of course contains zero cholesterol, very little saturated fat, and lots of fiber.

HOW POWERFUL IS THE VEGAN DIET? ---- A research study in New England compared typical meat eaters, lacto-ova-vegetarian, and vegans. All the subjects were fairly young, ranging in agefrom twenty to forty seven. The average meat-eaters, cholesterol levels was 173, which is lower then the average Americans, but not unusual in a young population. The lacto-ovo -vegetarians, -- cholesterol was better., averaging 150, and the vegans, averaged --- believe it or not 135-150. A Harvard research study found about the same thing. Vegetarians who include eggs, and dairy products in their diet ran cholsterol levels averaging 157. But vegans had an average cholesterol level of 124.

Vegetarians have the best diet. They have the lowest rates of coranary disease of any group in the country. And those who pick from a purely vegetarian (vegan) menu are the best of these.

Yes, but how does it taste? That is the surprise. Although, it does take a few weeks to adapt to any change in diet, people who switch to low-fat diets come to prefer them.

Look forward to more recipes that are cholesterol free on future posts.

Soluble Fibers

2009-11-03T09:26:00.000-08:00

Okay, today I think I will talk about how all that nasty cholesterol gets into our veins and causes us so much trouble. And which types of foods we can eat to help eliminate all the cholesterol and lower the report card we get when we have that all important lab test.
WHAT IS SOLUBLE FIBER? --Soluble fiber simply means fiber that dissovles in water as opposed to those which do not dissolve. For example Oat bran of course does dissolve in water and wheat bran does not. Here is a technical explanation. The liver converts cholesterol into bile and send it down the bile ducts and into the intestine. There, fiber carries it away along with the digestive contents. In order to replace these lost bile acids, the liver pull cholesterol out of the blood and uses it to make new bile acids. The result is lower cholesterol levels. If there is not enough fiber in your diet, however, the bile acids moving along the intestinal tract can be broken back down into cholesterol, which can be reabsorbed into the blood. Fiber also seems to block some of the absorption of fat from the digestive tract and may actually reduce cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
THE GOOD NEWS: -- is there are pleanty of other sources of soluble fiber. Oat Bran is the one we are most commonly aware of, but fruits, particularly apples and citrus fruits, are very rich in pectins, a soluble fiber found in the cell walls and between the cells.
Even the humblest of foods, the bean, contains substantial amouts of soluble fiber. As little as four ounces of cooked beans daily has been show to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels more then 10 per cent in just three weeks. Chickpeas, canned beans and other whole eans and bean products are all effective.
Barley, which is commonly used in soups, also contains soluble fiber and effectively reduces cholesterol levels. My suggestion is not to focus on the variety that is geting press attention at the moment, but try to build your menu from a variety of grains, vegetables fruits and bean, and among them you will get lots of beneficial soluble fiber.
TOMORROW I WILL BE POSTING ANOTHER DELICIOUS RECIPE THAT YOU WILL ENJOY AND THAT WILL NOT RAISE YOUR CHOLESTEROL.

Cholesterol free or low cholesterol macaroni and cheese

2009-11-01T10:00:00.000-08:00

Well here is a recipe for macaroni and cheese using a cheese subsitute called Veggie Slices. -- The veggie chesse itself is cholesterol free and has 0g Trans Fat per serving. It is also lactose free and gluten free.
So here is the recipe and I hope you will enjoy it. My husband makes macaroni and cheese from it all the time and says he cannot tell the difference in taste from regular cheese.

MACARONI AND CHEESE
1 pound of uncooked pasta 1 1/2 cups of either soy milk or non
fat milk
3 Tbsp. flour 1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp. paprika
1 cup fresh bread crumbs 1 pkg. 7.3 oz. of veggie cheese

GARNISH WITH SLICES OF SCALLIONS AND PAPRIKA

Boil pasta as package directs. If making crumb topped, grease a shallow 2 quart baking dish.
While past cooks, whisk, milk, flour, salt, onmion powder and paprika ina medium sauces pan until blended.
Bring to a boil over medium high heat whisking often. Reduce heat and simmer 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Over low heat, whisk, mustard, then melt cheese untilo melted and smooth.
The Veggie cheese melts just as well as regular cheese.
Drain pasta, and return to pot. Add sauce and toss to coat. Serve immediatly or if making crumb-topped, transfer to the baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and broil 2 to 3 minutes, until crumbs are toasted.
My husband says taste wise, he does not notice any difference between this macaroni and cheese and regular cheese.

Liver Cleanse to help gallbladder attacks

2009-07-06T16:56:00.000-07:00

Well I would like to share with all of you, a tip I found googling while I was in the midst of a gallbladder attack. I first went to the doctors and he thought I had kidney stones. He sent me for tests and of course they came back negative.
I was still up all night and not feeling well at all, and the pain was terrible, so I went back to the doctors. He shrugged his shoulders and said it must be a pulled muscle. I assured him it was not, I've had those and I know what they feel like. He offered nothing else other then a referral to an orthropedic doctor.
So I went home still in pain and feeling quite discouraged. I called my sister who is a nurse and she asked me where is the pain? I said well go to your navel on the right side and go up one inch and then follow it around to your back and almost to your spine. My sister said, Oh that is where your gallbladder is. So I googled and this is what I did and I got better on my own.
First I started by doing what they call is a liver cleanse. I drank hot lemon juice first thing in the morning.
Then I went on this diet. I went to the health food store and bought flaxseed oil and flaxseed. I ate salads with flaxseed sprinkled on top. Then I made my dressing as follows:
Lemon Juice
Flaxseed Oil
Honey
Apple cider vinager
I also used fresh lemons, and squeezed them. Slowly I got a little better every day.
And I still occasionally drink hot lemon water in the morning, and I always use the above as my salad dressing.
My researched showed that you need a certain type of oil, and flaxseed was what they recommended.
So if you are suffering from occasional gallbladder attacks, then I hope this will help you.

Living Healthy With Challenges: ANXIETY

2009-05-09T15:25:00.000-07:00

Living Healthy With Challenges: ANXIETY - Well I would like to add some information that I have come across while researching on Anxiety.
Anxiety disorders come in two basic forms.
The chronic form involves a recurring sense of foreboding and worry accompanied by mild physical symptoms.
A panic attack, on the other hand, comes on suddenly and unexpectedly, with symptoms that are often mistaken for a heart attack or another life threatening condition. There is sometimes a feeling of not being able to get a full breath of air. Symptoms come on suddenly and diminish suddenly and can be quite frightening.
Some research suggests that the central nervous systems of people with anxiety disorders may overreact to stress and take a longer time then most to return to a calmer state.
Symptoms may begin with an upsetting even - an accident, divorece, or death. Sometimes there is no obvious cause.
There mayb also be a biochemical basis. Studies have shown that people who are prone to panic attacks have higher blood levels of lactic acid, a chemical produced when muscles metabolize sugar withut enough oxygen.
Other research suggest that anxiety may be the result of an overproduction of stress hormones by the brain and adrenal glads.
Please note that this is just research I have done, and of course consulting your doctor, is always the best and first course of action for any of us. I sometimes do research and therefore it gives me a little more knowledge to ask questions of my physician.

Living Healthy With Challenges: Arthritis

2009-04-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

Living Healthy With Challenges: Arthritis
To stifle arthritis, you should make srue your diet is extremely low in fat, and high in fiber. Include a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Some studies indicte that a vegetarian diet along may be therapeutic for rheumatoid arthritis- and it maby be benedicial for osteoarthritis, too.
You should also realize that certain foods can provoke allergic reactions and aggravate arthritis. The worst are wheat, corn, milk and other dairy products, beef and vegetables from the gnightshade family (including geggplant, tomatoes and potatoes). Have yourself tested to make sure you are not allergic.
At the same time, you should eat more fish- up to three times or more per week. Studies indicate the high content of EPA (ecicosapentaenoic acid) in cold -water fish such as mackerel, herring, sardines and salmon reduces arthritis inflammation and pain. Flaxseed oil, canola oil and evening primose oil supply similar benefits.
There are many herbs that can ease arthritis suffering, and that will be the subject I will post about tomorrow.

Arthritis

2009-04-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

This deisease requires little introduction. The name itself means joint inflammation. People with arthritis suffer from painful, inflamed, swollen joints that make normal function very difficult.
There are three types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Some 60 million Americans may suffer from one form or another, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Osteoarthritis, sometimes called the "wear -and tear" arthritis, afflicts more then 40 million Americans. The cumulative effects of stress and use cause the joints to break down. The weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, as well as the joints in the hands are most often affected.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition. It affects the entire body, but shows up mostly in the form of joint pain and inflammation. Specialists call it an "autoimmune disease,", which means the immune system manufactures antibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue in the joints. The hands, feet, wrists, ankles and knewws are the usual targets. Some 14 million Americans may be afflicted.

Gout is a highly specific form of arthritis caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood and lymph fluid. This leads to the formation of hard crystals that settle in joints, usuallyof the toes, and cause excruciating apin. The usual triggers for gout are excessive consumption of food, especially rich, fatty foods and alcohol.
The standard treatment for most kinds of arthritis involves taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Aspirin is such a drug. No matter how common and simple it may seem it is highly effective at releiving pain and inflammation. But did you know it is a derivative of the bark of the white willow tree? Or that you can obtain this bark and use it instead of aspirin?
The reason yo may want to do that is because there is evidence that even though NSAIDs may prouce short-term benefits, they may actually promote the progression of arthritis and joint destruction . At the same time, there's other evidence to suggest that proper nutrition and natural therapies, such as herbs can strengthen and tone the body, improve general health, and enable the system to cope with arthritis more effectively without adding any toxins to your system. This is what I will be exploring in the posts to come regarding arthritis. Stay tuned.